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.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-fox-news-senator-banks-demands-probe-of-minnesota-childcare-fraud/,ICYMI: Fox News: Senator Banks Demands Probe of Minnesota Childcare Fraud,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) sent a letter to Health and Human Services Assistant Secretary Alex Adams urging the department to investigate and review Minnesota’s childcare contracts in light of recent instances of childcare fraud.

See excerpts from the story below or read the full story here.

Read the full letter here.

EXCLUSIVE: Senator Jim Banks, R-Ind., is pushing for a federal investigation after sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) calling forthe agency to construct investigative reports of Somali networks as the roughly $9 billion fraud scandal in Minnesota continues to unfold.

The Indiana senator pointed out that the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program is administered by the state government, but is largely funded by federal tax dollars through two programs that provide roughly $300 million in federal childcare subsidies to Minnesota.

On Sunday, Banks sent a letter to Alex J. Adams, the Assistant Secretary for Family Support, leading the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) at HHS.

“I urge ACF to investigate reports of Somali networks creating fake ‘daycare centers’ as vehicles to steal millions of dollars from Minnesota’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which administers hundreds of millions of dollars in federal childcare subsidies each year,” Banks’ letter to HHS reads.

“Clearly, the Walz administration has failed to meet the most basic benchmarks required by ACF,” Banks explained. “Any unlawful behavior uncovered in ACF’s investigation must be immediately referred to the proper federal authorities including ICE, the Department of Homeland Security, and Federal prosecutors.”

“I will not stand by while tax dollars meant to support hardworking families are stolen and state officials refuse to act,” Banks added.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/banks-delivers-for-indiana-constiuents-in-first-year-in-the-senate/,Banks Delivers for Indiana Constiuents in First Year in the Senate,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) highlighted his office’s constituent service work over the past year, marking his first year representing Hoosiers in the U.S. Senate.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “In my first year in the Senate, my office delivered real results for Hoosiers. I’m proud of the work we did to help thousands of families and return millions of dollars to Indiana.”

Over the past year, Senator Banks’ office delivered the following for Indiana constituents:

Assisted 1,138 Hoosiers with federal casework requests

Helped return $32,841,023.49 to constituents

Responded to 58,811 constituent inquires

Arranged 295 U.S. Capitol tours for Hoosiers visiting Washington, D.C.

Arranged 31 White House tours for Hoosiers visiting Washington, D.C.

In 2026, Senator Banks looks forward to continuing to help Hoosiers who need assistance with a federal agency or who are planning a visit to Washington and want to request tours.

Please feel free to contact his office for assistance or visit his website linked here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-kaine-applaud-bill-to-formally-end-iraq-wars-becoming-law/,"Young, Kaine Applaud Bill to Formally End Iraq Wars Becoming Law",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) applauded the repeal of the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs) against Iraq. Young and Kaine’s bipartisan legislation to repeal these AUMFswas included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was signed by President Trump last night.

“It’s time to close the book on these forever wars once and for all,” said Young, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. “This is an important step of what I like to call legislative hygiene, for Congress to formally end these two wars. The 1991 and 2002 AUMFs are no longer necessary and leaving them on the books carries risk of potential misuse. I want to thank my Congressional colleagues and President Trump for supporting this legislation and specifically thank Senator Kaine for his partnership on this effort for many years. Finally, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of the men and women who served in these two conflicts. We honor your service and sacrifice.”

“The repeal of the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force against Iraq—the first repeal of an authorization in more than 50 years—is historic. It allows the American people, including the generations of servicemembers who served in Iraq, to finally close the book on this part of our nation’s history,” said Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees. “There have been too many instances of Congress abdicating its role in matters of war and peace, but the repeal of these AUMFs is a significant step forward in reclaiming our solemn constitutional responsibility and saying no to forever endless wars. I’m thankful to the cosponsors of this legislation and my colleagues for fulfilling our duty, to the President for signing the legislation into law, and to the many advocates, veterans, and military families who worked tirelessly alongside us to get this done.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-congratulates-president-trumps-u-s-attorney-nominees-for-indiana-on-senate-confirmation/,Sen. Banks Congratulates President Trump’s U.S. Attorney Nominees for Indiana on Senate Confirmation,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) released a statement congratulating President Trump’s nominees, Adam Mildred (Northern District of Indiana) and Thomas Wheeler II (Southern District of Indiana), on their final confirmation by the U.S. Senate to serve as U.S. Attorneys for Indiana.

Said Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Adam Mildred and Tom Wheeler both bring decades of legal experience and a deep commitment to upholding law and order. I congratulate them on their final confirmation and am looking forward to the work they will do for Hoosiers across Indiana.”

Adam Mildred (Nominee for United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana)

Adam Mildred is currently a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in Allen County and was formerly the Chief Deputy Prosecutor in Noble County. Adam is a veteran Indiana prosecutor and has prosecuted over 200 cases, including trials involving homicide, robbery, drug trafficking, and federal firearms offenses. He holds a B.S. from Ball State University and a J.D. from Indiana University Maurer School of Law.

Tom Wheeler (Nominee for United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana)

Tom Wheeler is currently the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana and was previously the Acting General Counsel at the Department of Education.. He has held senior roles across the federal government, including Acting Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights at the Department of Justice, Senior Advisor to the White House School Safety Commission, and Counsel to the Secretary of Education. Before returning to government, Wheeler was a partner at Bose McKinney & Evans LLP, a top Indianapolis law firm, where he represented federal, state, and local public entities. He holds a B.S. from Indiana University and a J.D. from Indiana University Maurer School of Law.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-jim-banks-visits-indiana-national-guard-troops-stationed-in-washington-d-c/,"Sen. Jim Banks Visits Indiana National Guard Troops Stationed in Washington, D.C.",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"This morning, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) visited Indiana National Guard troops who are in Washington D.C. to support the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission as part of President Trump’s Make America Safe Again agenda.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Our Indiana National Guard soldiers represent the best of our state. It was great to spend time with them this morning and thank them for the important work they’re doing to help protect our nation’s capital.”

Photos available here.

Background:

300 Indiana National Guard solders arrived in Washington D.C. earlier this month to assist local and federal law enforcement partners to help deter crime and maintain public order. Soldiers trained at Camp Atterbury to prepare for the mission. As the mission evolves, they will continue training alongside Joint Task Force-District of Columbia.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-introduces-the-student-loan-tax-elimination-act/,Senator Banks Introduces the Student Loan Tax Elimination Act,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Yesterday, Senators Jim Banks (R-Ind.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) introduced theStudent Loan Tax Elimination Act. This bill would eliminate origination fees for federal student loans. Rep. Lloyd Smucker (R-Pa.) and Rep. Sharice Davids (D-Kan.) are leading the bill in the House.

Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “Students deserve a fair deal when paying for college. My bill ends a hidden tax on student loans and ensures our next generation has a greater opportunity to receive a more affordable education.”

Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.): “Student loan debt is holding Virginia families and the overall economy back. It should be easier, not harder, for American students to afford to go to college if that is the right path for them. That’s why I’m introducing this bipartisan, commonsense legislation to finally get rid of an antiquated tax on student loan borrowers.”

Melanie Storey, President & CEO of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA): “The Student Loan Tax Elimination Act ensures federal student loans include only the funds needed to support educational costs — eliminating a hidden tax on students and families — and provides a key step toward greater transparency and affordability.”

Key Provisions of the Student Loan Tax Elimination Act are:

Amend the Higher Education Act to repeal origination fees imposed upon federal student loans.

Background:

The Higher Education Act of 1965 built the structure for a bank-based student lending program, a precursor to the modern student financial aid system. To help lenders manage the costs of those programs, Direct Subsidized and Direct Unsubsidized loans were charged a 1.057 percent fee, and PLUS loans were charged a 4 percent fee. Legislation in 2010 took all federal student loans out of the hands of private lenders and into the Department of Education. Despite this, these fees have remained.

According to the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, who supports this bill, the federal government has taken in more than $6.7 billion over a five-year period from this hidden tax. During a time where college costs continue to soar, this fee continues to artificially inflate costs for students. Repealing this fee would help students and families get a more affordable education.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-youngs-office-helps-2800-hoosiers-in-2025/,"Senator Young’s Office Helps 2,800 Hoosiers in 2025",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) and his staff have helped more than 2,800 Hoosiers resolve cases before federal agencies this year. The work of Young’s constituent services team resulted in nearly $30 million being returned to Hoosier taxpayers.

Senator Young helped recover and return over $24 million from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to Hoosiers in 2025. An additional $5.6 million was recovered and returned from Social Security and Veterans Affairs (VA) claims.

In addition to helping constituents receive benefits, Senator Young’s constituent service team helps expedite passport applications, obtain missing commendation medals for veterans, navigate international adoption cases, and more.

“Inquiries from members of Congress can help kickstart the process for constituents in need of assistance navigating federal agencies. I’m grateful for our team and their continued commitment to helping Hoosiers,” said Young.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-baldwin-lead-effort-torevitalize-great-lakes-shipbuilding/,"Young, Baldwin Lead Effort to Revitalize Great Lakes Shipbuilding",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) led a group of their colleagues in calling on President Donald Trump to ensure that implementation of his Executive Order “Restoring America’s Shipbuilding Dominance” strengthens and revitalizes the Great Lakes shipbuilding industry. Specifically, the senators are calling on the Trump Administration to establish Maritime Prosperity Zones in regions outside the traditional coastal shipbuilding centers, including the Great Lakes.

“We share your goal of a revitalized shipbuilding and maritime manufacturing industry and believe that the hardworking people and dynamic economies of the Great Lakes region will be essential to achieving it,” wrote the senators. “The Great Lakes are already home to shipbuilders, manufacturers, steel producers, casting and forging, and maritime industry suppliers. In many ways, the Great Lakes states are well positioned for sustained national investment that would build on the current shipbuilding and manufacturing capacity in the region.”

In the letter, the senators lay out a 5-point recommendation plan for the Trump Administration to take into consideration when establishing Maritime Prosperity Zones.

In addition to Senators Young and Baldwin, the letter is also co-signed by Senators Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), and Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.).

The letter is supported by the Fincantieri Marinette Marine Shipyard.

Young is the Republican Senate lead on the Shipbuilding and Harbor Infrastructure for Prosperity and Security (SHIPS) for America Act, comprehensive legislation to revitalize the United States shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries.

Full text of the letter is available here and below:

Dear Mr. President:

As Senators representing Great Lakes states, we write regarding your Executive Order, “Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance,” signed on April 9, 2025. We share your goal of a revitalized shipbuilding and maritime manufacturing industry and believe that the hardworking people and dynamic economies of the Great Lakes region will be essential to achieving it. While Congress works to pass the Ships for America Act (S. 1541), which we believe will provide additional resources and tools that your Administration can use to turbocharge American shipbuilding, we would like to offer recommendations for complementary executive action that can be implemented in the near-term.

Section 11 of the Executive Order calls for a plan to establish Maritime Prosperity Zones in regions outside of traditional coastal shipbuilding centers, including the Great Lakes. We agree that the Great Lakes can play a vital role in reclaiming our nation’s position as a global leader in shipbuilding. The Great Lakes are already home to shipbuilders, manufacturers, steel producers, casting and forging, and maritime industry suppliers. Additionally, efforts are underway to connect industry leaders in the Great Lakes and develop a shipbuilding consortium for organized and strategic collaboration. In many ways, the Great Lakes states are well positioned for sustained national investment that would build on the current shipbuilding and manufacturing capacity in the region.

A critical component of your plan to establish Maritime Prosperity Zones is identifying opportunities to incentivize and facilitate domestic investment in maritime industries. We would like to share recommendations for your consideration that we believe will best suit Great Lakes Prosperity Zones, leverage Midwest manufacturing strengths, create jobs, fund infrastructure investment, and upgrade the nation’s military preparedness.

1. Define Great Lakes Prosperity Zones by Activity

By using an industry reference rather than geography, shipyards, their suppliers, and customers engaged in the maritime industry, as well as their educational and training partners, will benefit from Great Lakes Prosperity Zones. By doing so, the focus of Great Lakes Prosperity Zones is on the shipyard and related port, manufacturing and educational industries, not specific neighborhoods that happen to overlap with shipyards. This approach assures a common application of prosperity zones across the Great Lakes without winners and losers based on geographic location and encourages emerging or resurgent shipyards and related activities currently not operational.

2. Support the Creation of a Great Lakes Shipbuilding Consortium

Shipyards, steel producers, and manufacturing suppliers in Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, and Indiana have the capacity and workforce to build Navy and Coast Guard vessels, icebreakers, commercial ferries, and maritime security craft. Groups of shipyards and their Great Lakes-based supply chain partners are forming a Great Lakes Shipbuilding Consortium to collaborate on modular construction of U.S. government vessels. We recommend commissioning and funding a study led by the Consortium to facilitate investments in infrastructure, workforce, and technology.

3. Support Public and Private Investment into Shipyards, Ports, Supply Chain

Modernization and Industrial Technology

The maritime industry, including many of the suppliers that serve U.S. shipyards—like metal fabricators, casting and forging, and engine component manufacturers—operate with aging equipment and limited capital. While the U.S. capital markets and general economy are the best source for funding the maritime sector, the White House should continue federal investments, like MARAD’s Small Shipyard Grant Program and the Port Development Infrastructure Program. It should also explore additional mechanisms to support the industry, especially small and mid-sized manufacturers. Strengthening our supplier base is key to scaling up ship production and maintaining a resilient and surge-capable industrial ecosystem.

4. Create the Conditions for Sustained Success

To effectively establish Great Lakes Prosperity Zones, your Administration should streamline and increase competition in military new construction and repair contracting procedures. We recommend creating a Great Lakes Home Port designation to explore the feasibility of conducting military maritime repair work on the Great Lakes.

It is also critical that your Administration consistently enforce any existing Buy American requirements related to infrastructure projects and vessel construction and operation.

5. Expand Federal Investment in Workforce Training and Apprenticeships

We must develop a next-generation workforce that can meet the demands of modern shipbuilding and marine technology. The White House should support targeted federal grants to high schools, community colleges, trade schools, and union training centers in the Great Lakes region to expand apprenticeship programs in welding, electrical systems, naval architecture, marine engineering, and precision manufacturing. A robust pipeline of skilled workers is essential to meet current and future demand.

We look forward to working with you to meet the current moment to restore America’s maritime dominance.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/banks-votes-to-pass-the-fy-2026-ndaa-delivers-key-wins-for-indiana/,"Banks Votes to Pass the FY 2026 NDAA, Delivers Key Wins for Indiana",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today,Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after voting to pass Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act with a 77 to 20 vote and deliver key legislative priorities for Indiana.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Today, I proudly voted to pass the FY2026 NDAA delivering key investments in Indiana that I fought to secure. These wins strengthen our military, support Hoosier job growth, and ensure Indiana remains a leader in national defense and technological innovation.”

Provisions secured by Senator Banks in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act:

Crane MILCON funding

$72 million in military construction (MILCON) approved to build a new pyrotechnics production facility at Crane Army Ammunition Activity.

Separately, a funding bill passed last month includes $100 million in appropriations for this facility.

Muscatatuck Urban Training Center

Requires the Department of War to provide Congress with studies on how best to manage and fund ranges like Muscatatuck Urban Training Center.

Navy Small Modular Reactor pilot program

Requires the Navy to establish a pilot program for a Navy installation to be powered by a Small Modular Reactor (SMR).

Quantum Corridor funding

$12 million approved for the Quantum Corridor project.

Trine University Artificial Intelligence for Maritime Maneuver (AIMM)

$5 million approved for Trine University’s Artificial Intelligence for Maritime Maneuver (AIMM) partnership with Naval Surface Warfare Center – Crane to build and deploy fully autonomous low-cost vessels powered by artificial intelligence for the Navy. This program supports students at Trine, engineers at Crane, and midshipmen from the U.S. Naval Academy.

Shelbyville Aviation Hangar

$55 million in military construction authorized for an Aircraft Maintenance Hangar Addition at the Indiana National Guard facility in Shelbyville.

Training Facility for the 122nd Fighter Wing

$18 million in military construction for an F-16 Mission Training Facility at the 122nd Fighter Wing at the Fort Wayne Air National Guard Base.

Buying Faster than the Enemy Act

Speeds up military acquisitions by streamlining procurement, reducing red tape, and prioritizing commercial solutions for both traditional and nontraditional contractors.

REFOCUS DODEA Act

Requires the DoW to implement rules limiting cellphone use in classrooms for military children to reduce distractions, with exceptions for emergencies.

Background:

The National Defense Authorization Act is U.S. federal law that authorizes annual funding for the Department of Defense and sets policies and priorities.

Senator Banks served in the U.S. Navy Reserve and is an Afghanistan veteran. He previously served on the Armed Services Committee in the House of Representatives as the representative for Indiana’s third district.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-jim-banks-praises-military-recruitment-surge-under-president-trump-on-senate-floor/,Sen. Jim Banks Praises Military Recruitment Surge Under President Trump on Senate Floor,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Click Image Above to Watch the Full Speech

“Thank you, Mr. President.

Last week I had the pleasure of attending the Reagan National Defense Forum at the Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. I’ve been to the event a few times before. It’s a beautiful setting. The library is such a great tribute to one of our greatest presidents, Ronald Reagan, who is known for his efforts to rebuild the military through peace through strength in the Reagan years that we often think about and talk much about today.

The forum has been around for 12 years. This was the 12th annual event, and I’ve been able to attend the incredible event a few times early on in my time in the House. It’s been a few years since I’ve been there.

But the event is filled with some of our nation’s top military leaders, cabinet officials, administration officials, much of the leadership of the Pentagon. It’s also a bipartisan event with a congressional delegation from both sides of the aisle, includes also leaders and innovators in our national defense industry who join the event every year, as well.

At this past forum, I participated in a panel discussion about recruitment and retention in our military. I was actually joined by a former Democrat colleague of mine in the House, Jimmy Panetta. His father, Leon Panetta, was sitting in the audience to hear his son and myself and the other members of the panel talk about this important subject.

The panel got me thinking, though, as we close out 2025, about how far we have come in just one year, on this subject, recruitment and retention in the military. As we close out 2025, I can think of many big wins that have come out of the Trump administration, but none as significant as what President Trump and Secretary of War Hegseth have done to repair the recruitment crisis that took place on Joe Biden’s watch.

This unbelievable accomplishment doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves, and that’s why I wanted to come down to the floor today and talk about that incredible success story and share with you some of what I talked about in that panel a little over a week ago.

When I served in the House of Representatives, before I got to the Senate, I chaired the Military Personnel Subcommittee on the House Armed Services Committee, so I saw up close how bad things got under Joe Biden, especially at the Pentagon and in our military.

When Joe Biden was president, he presided over the worst recruitment crisis in the over 50 years of an all-volunteer force of our military. In 2022, the Army set a goal to recruit 60,000 new soldiers, but only managed to recruit 45,000. That’s 15,000 soldiers short. And the same thing happened again the following year in 2023, when the Army was, again, 15,000 soldiers short of its 65,000-soldier recruitment goal. When you add up the recruitment losses under Joe Biden between 2021 and 2025, the Army shrank by 40,000 soldiers due to a lack of new recruits. That’s as much as four divisions of troops in the United States Army.

The same story, Mr. President, happened to the Navy, which I know is important to you, it’s important to me. In 2023, the Navy was 7,500 short of its goal to recruit 37,000 new sailors. In 2024, it was nearly 5,000 short of its goal to recruit over 40,000 new sailors. So between 2021 and 2025, the Navy shrank by 16,000 sailors, which is about three aircraft carriers’ worth of United States sailors. That’s how bad the recruitment crisis got on Joe Biden’s watch.

But how did this happen? I think this is important context and history, when we evaluate where we are today. It’s clear to everyone that the Biden administration treated the military as a political experiment. I don’t think, Mr. President, we’ve seen the military politicized in a way that it was under the four years that Joe Biden was president ever before in American history.

The Biden Pentagon dropped physical fitness standards to support woke DEI initiatives throughout the armed services. As a side note, by the way, the Marines were the only good news during those four years, because the Marine Corps never dropped their standards.

But you have former Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, who immediately after Joe Biden was sworn into office ordered a 60-day standdown to combat extremism in the military. They spent nearly 6 million man hours military-wide on that standdown. Those are hours, Mr. President, that could have been spent on training our troops to combat our biggest enemy, our biggest threat, that being China, or, I would contend to you, that those 6 million man hours could have been spent on preparing to evacuate and leave Afghanistan in a much more responsible way than what the military did.

Instead, they focused on politics at the beginning of the Biden administration. Then, you had General C.Q. Brown, at the time the General Chief of Staff of the Air Force, who issued racial quotas for the United States Air Force. You had Joe Biden’s Secretary of the Army arguing that it was a bad thing that more than 80% of our recruits come from military families. Think about that for a minute. She said there was, “a risk of developing a warrior caste in America.” When the Secretary of the Army should have been trying to boost recruitment, she insulted patriotic Americans who are inspired by their parents to serve and suggested that the Army didn’t want them. It’s no wonder that we had a recruitment crisis in the United States Army.

Mr. President, when you combine all of these factors, it’s no wonder that the military under Joe Biden failed to meet its recruitment numbers.

Simply put: fewer young Americans wanted to serve, because they stopped believing in the mission.

I often think back to an article from the Wall Street Journal that I read back in 2023. It had a poll that showed that patriotism among Americans, especially young Americans, had plummeted to historic lows. Again, 2023, Joe Biden is the president, aftermath of what happened in Afghanistan, all of this other foolish experimentation, the politicization of our military. According to that poll, only 38% of Americans in 2023 said that patriotism was very important to them. That’s down from 70% in the 1990’s. And to this day, this story astonishes me. I’d love to see an update on that poll to show what the patriotism numbers look like today.

Mr. President, I know you know this: you can’t build a military without patriots. You can’t ask young men and women to put their lives on the line when the culture tells you that the country isn’t worth fighting and dying for. You can’t expect the next generation of Americans to raise their right hand, Mr. President, like you did, like I did, like so many of our colleagues did in the United States Senate, to protect this nation, when so few believe that America is the greatest country in the history of the world.

Something else that I think about is how catastrophic the withdraw from Afghanistan played a huge part in the shortage of the military recruitment under Joe Biden, as well. Americans saw 13 brave servicemembers killed at Abbey Gate, including a Hoosier, and American guns and vehicles abandoned to the Taliban on that embarrassing and disastrous and deadly day. It didn’t exactly inspire people to serve. Young Americans asked themselves, “who wants to be part of that type of military?” And they said, “not me.”

Mr. President, the good news, though, and I want to get to the good news, because this is really good news — the good news is that this has all been fixed in a really short period of time. President Trump changed everything. In fact, it changed immediately on election day, just a little over a year ago.

Military leaders testified to the fact that military recruitment increased dramatically the day that Donald Trump won the election. The Army met its 2025 recruitment numbers four months early. The Army reached its retention goals for the whole career in just six months. Navy recruitment hit a 20-year record.

And how did all of this happen? President Trump and Secretary Hegseth inspired young people to serve again. Because President Trump and Secretary Hegseth are restoring our military’s strength and greatness. They cut away the woke, DEI initiatives throughout the Department of War, and focused on what really matters to our military: patriotism, a sense of mission, and lethality.

Under Joe Biden, young Americans saw the botched withdrawal of Afghanistan. Today, they see a military that puts America first, taking out narco-terrorist drug boats before they can bring deadly drugs into our country. 71% of American’s say that they support these strikes on these drug boats.

When you ask young men and women, if that’s the type of military they want to be part of, one that’s stopping drugs from flooding into America, killing our brothers, our sisters, our neighbors, our friends, you get an overwhelming yes.

When America is strong, when America is confident, when America wins, our young people want to be part of that, they want to serve. Patriotism isn’t dead, it was just dormant during those four years, waiting for leadership that America can believe in, like what we’ve got in the White House today in Donald Trump.

Secretary of War Hegseth is doing an extraordinary job. He’s the exact leader at the department that we need to restore the focus on lethality, after four disastrous years under Joe Biden, when the focus was on anything but that. He has brought back the warrior ethos to our military. And has worked hard to ensure that America’s military can meet tomorrow’s challenges. Our enemies have been put on notice under Pete Hegseth’s leadership at the Department of War.

Mr. President, the path forward is clear: we must continue supporting this administration’s efforts to restore our military and make our military as great as it can be again. Our all-volunteer military depends on Americans who choose to serve, and Americans will choose to serve when they believe in the mission, trust their leaders, and take pride in this great country. President Trump is giving them that, and America is stronger for it. That’s some great news.

Mr. President, as we close out 2025, there are so many things to talk about.

But this accomplishment, in and of itself–what President Trump and Secretary Hegseth have done to restore recruitment, save our military, is really good news that I wanted to come to the floor and talk about as we close out this year on the eve of going home forthis Christmas break.

Mr. President, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy New Year. I’m looking forward to a lot more good news like this in 2026.

Thank you. I yield back.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-introduces-justin-olson-before-the-senate-judiciary-committee/,Senator Banks Introduces Justin Olson Before the Senate Judiciary Committee,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced Justin Olson, President Trump’s nominee for the Southern District of Indiana before the Senate Judiciary Committee.

See the full introduction here.

See remarks below:

“Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It’s an honor to be before this committee and introduce President Trump’s nominee for the Southern District of Indiana.

Justin Olson is well qualified for this vital position.

He earned his undergraduate degree from Grove City College. He went on to earn his law degree at Indiana University’s Maurer School of Law.

For five years, Justin served his country as an assistant U.S. attorney in the Southern District of Indiana. There, he led efforts to combat healthcare fraud and address the opioid crisis.

Justin has fought to protect core American liberties. He’s currently representing Riley Gaines and other female athletes who have been forced to compete against men in sports, and as a dad of three daughters, I’m very grateful for his leadership on that front. Justin is seeking justice for women who have been harmed by unsafe and discriminatory practices.

Justin himself is a husband and father to five children; they’re all sitting back behind me. and he’s a recognized leader in our community in Indianapolis. He’s served as an elder at his church and a Board member of the Jewish Community Center of Indianapolis.

This is the first time, Mr. Chairman, I’ve been through this process, being able to weigh in to the President of the United States and interview perspective judges to serve on the federal court, on the federal bench, and one thing that strikes me about Justin is his courage. That’s what I’m looking for when it comes to a judge who is serving on the federal level from my home state. Frankly, I had never met or heard of Justin before I went through this process. Didn’t have a relationship with him, but I was blown away by his credentials, his background, what he brings to the table.

There are lots of things you can say in an interview, but you can’t fake courage, you can’t fake your record, and Justin Olson has a record of doing the right thing and stepping up to the plate.

I’m so grateful to President Trump who nominated Justin Olson to serve as a judge on the Southern District of Indiana. I look forward to voting for him, and I ask this committee to give him your full support. I’m confident he will serve our state and his country well. It’s my honor to support him.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I yield back.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-votes-for-annual-defense-bill-to-support-our-military-keep-america-secure/,"Young Votes for Annual Defense Bill to Support Our Military, Keep America Secure",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) voted for thefinal National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026. The legislation passed the Senate 77-20 and will now be sent to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

The annual defense bill sets policy for the Department of Defense (DoD), establishes national security priorities, and gives service members a much-deserved pay raise.

“The National Defense Authorization Act is one of the most important pieces of legislation Congress considers each year. I’m pleased this year’s bill includes several priorities I’ve worked on to modernize our defense capabilities, support Indiana’s defense industrial base and workforce, and maintain American leadership in biotech. This year’s NDAA also includes my bill to repeal the Gulf and Iraq War AUMFs and close the book on these ‘forever wars.’ I’ve been pushing for years to repeal these outdated AUMFs, and I am pleased that my repeal bill is included in the final NDAA. I look forward to President Trump signing this critical bill into law,” said Senator Young.

Senator Young worked to secure the following provisions in this year’s NDAA:

Support for Indiana’s defense capabilities and technologies:

$10 million for reusable hypersonic test bed integration and testing for MACH-TB at Naval Surface Warfare Center-Crane Division (NSWC Crane) in southern Indiana.

$10 million for PELE microreactor production by BWXT, which has a facility in Mount Vernon, and supported by Rolls Royce in Indianapolis. This cutting-edge technology will provide American military bases and installations with resilient, reliable electricity.

$5 million for AI Maritime Maneuver (2.0) funding to support Trine University and NSWC Crane’s collaborative development of AI-enabled maritime maneuvering and navigation.

Anti-Submarine Warfare Equipment funding to protect our Navy as they are on the forefront of securing vital sea lanes, securing commerce, and reducing threats to the homeland from the navies of China and Russia. Sonobuoys, like those manufactured by Ultra Maritime in Columbia City, are a vital tool in detecting and tracking submarine threats from our peer competitors.

$5 million to support the Defense Innovation Unit OnRamp Hub, led by the Indiana-based Applied Research Institute (ARI), that will accelerate national security innovation and deliver emerging technologies to the DoD. Senator Young supported ARI’s winning application for this Hub project earlier this year.

Authorizations for the procurement of additional Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs), which will be built by AM General in Mishawaka.

$12 million for the Quantum Communications Corridor to boost Indiana’s quantum footprint.

Critical updates to Indiana’s defense infrastructure:

$72 million for Crane Army Ammunition Activity to modernize the production of pyrotechnics.

$55 million to the Indiana Army National Guard in Shelbyville for critical flight facility upgrades.

$18 million for an F-16 training facility in Fort Wayne.

The AUMF repeal bill, authored by Senators Young and Tim Kaine (D-Va.), to repeal the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMF) against Iraq. The Gulf War started 34 years ago, and the Iraq War began 22 years ago. These conflicts have long ended, and today Iraq is a partner, not an adversary. This legislation, which was included in both the House-version and the Senate-version of the NDAA, repeals the outdated AUMFs and close the book on these forever wars.

The BIOSECURE Act, legislation to prohibit federal contracting with certain biotechnology providers connected to foreign adversaries. This effort stems in part from Senator Young’s role as chair of the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB). The NDAA also includes 17 other NSCEB recommendations that would spur biotech innovation critical to our national security and defense capabilities and ensure the U.S. maintains global leadership in biotechnology.

Provisions included in the Intelligence Authorization Act (IAA) to authorize funding, provide legal authorities, and enhance oversight of the U.S. Intelligence Community. The NDAA includes language that would help keep America secure by addressing threats to our defense, industrial, agricultural, and health sectors. Three pieces of legislation authored by Senator Young were included in the IAA and the NDAA:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-applauds-president-trumps-decision-to-declare-fentanyl-a-weapon-of-mass-destruction/,Senator Banks Applauds President Trump’s Decision to Declare Fentanyl a Weapon of Mass Destruction,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) applauded President Trump’s decision to designate fentanyl as a “weapon of mass destruction,” as part of efforts to stop the deadly threat posed by narco-terrorists.

Senator Banks’ first bill in the 119th Congress was the Countering Beijing’s Weaponization (CBW) of Fentanyl Act. This legislation would amend the Chemical and Biological Weapons Control and Warfare Elimination Act of 1991 to define fentanyl and fentanyl precursors as chemical and biological weapons in U.S. law. This bill would also sanction Chinese Communist Party officials for refusing to curb the flow of fentanyl precursors to the United States.

Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “Declaring fentanyl a weapon of mass destruction is a critical step to combating the deadly flow of poison coming into our country. President Trump is fighting back against the CCP and narco-terrorists who want to kill our kids.”

Full text of the bill can be found here.

Read more about Senator Banks’ bill here.

Background:

Senator Jim Banks previously introduced the Countering Beijing’s Weaponization (CBW) of Fentanyl Act last year as a member of the House of Representatives.

Additionally, then-Rep. Banks introduced the Stop CCP Fentanyl Act, which aimed to sanction Chairman Xi and China unless they halted fentanyl exports. His amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act, requiring the Department of Defense to determine whether PRC officials assisted in or were aware of the transportation of fentanyl precursors to Mexican drug cartels, was signed into law.

2,130 Hoosiers lost their lives to overdoses in 2023, with the primary cause being fentanyl.

In 2023, the DEA seized over 80 million fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills and nearly 12,000 pounds of fentanyl powder—equivalent to more than 390 million lethal doses.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-releases-statement-after-briefing-by-hegseth-rubio-on-narcoterrorist-strikes-2/,"Senator Banks Releases Statement After Briefing by Hegseth, Rubio on Narcoterrorist Strikes",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Following a briefing by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) released the following statement applauding the Trump administration’s continued efforts to combat narcoterrorists bringing drugs to the United States.

Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “I’ve met too many Hoosiers who have lost loved ones to drugs. President Trump’s strikes on narcoterrorist operations are preventing these deadly drugs from ever reaching our shores and killing more Americans. He has my full support.”

See Senator Banks’ comments regarding narcoterrorists efforts below:

Senator Jim Banks on Fox and Friends

Senator Banks on Fox News Sunday

Senator Banks on The Will Cain Show

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-releases-statement-after-briefing-by-hegseth-rubio-on-narcoterrorist-strikes/,"Senator Banks Releases Statement After Briefing by Hegseth, Rubio on Narcoterrorist Strikes",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Following a briefing by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) released the following statement applauding the Trump administration’s continued efforts to combat narcoterrorists bringing drugs to the United States.

Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “I’ve met too many Hoosiers who have lost loved ones to drugs. President Trump’s strikes on narcoterrorist operations are preventing these deadly drugs from ever reaching our shores and killing more Americans. He has my full support.”

See Senator Banks’ comments regarding narcoterrorists efforts below:

Senator Jim Banks on Fox and Friends

Senator Banks on Fox News Sunday

Senator Banks on The Will Cain Show

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-leads-effort-to-designate-calumet-region-as-national-heritage-area/,Young Leads Effort to Designate Calumet Region as National Heritage Area,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) introduced legislation to designate the Calumet Region, which includes Lake, Porter, and LaPorte counties in Indiana and Will and Cook counties in Illinois, as a National Heritage Area (NHA). NHAs are designated by Congress to recognize places where natural, cultural, historical, and recreational resources converge to form nationally significant landscapes.

The Calumet Region has long been a center of industrial growth and remains the leading steel-producing region in the United States today. Located at the southern tip of Lake Michigan, the area was the site of early advancements in ecology, has been registered as a natural botanical preserve, and is home to the Indiana Dunes National Park and the Pullman National Historical Park. The economic opportunities combined with natural resources have led to decades of migration of working class families to the region.

“The Calumet Region’s industrial legacy, unique environment, and recreational spaces have long made the area an attractive destination to live, work, and visit. Our efforts to designate the region as a National Heritage Area will preserve and promote its rich resources and culture for years to come,” said Senator Young.

“The Calumet region is both rich in history and natural resources, home to the Pullman National Historical Park, the coast of Lake Michigan, and the Indiana Dunes National Park,” said Senator Durbin. “I’m joining Senator Young to introduce legislation that would establish a Calumet National Heritage Area to honor the history, culture, and rich environment in the region.”

“The Calumet region tells the story of Northwest Indiana’s history and natural beauty. This NHA designation will protect it for future generations and strengthen our local communities,” said Senator Banks.

“It’s important that we honor and preserve areas that played pivotal roles in both our state and nation’s history,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m proud to reintroduce this bipartisan legislation with Senator Young and Senator Durbin, not only to recognize the Calumet region’s cultural legacy and the many ways immigrants enrich our communities, but also to ensure its preservation by establishing the Calumet National Heritage Area for future generations to experience and learn from.”

The designation of the Calumet National Heritage Area would enhance existing efforts to promote the cultural, natural, historical, and recreational resources of the Calumet Region made by Indiana, Illinois, public-private partnerships, and volunteers.

U.S. Representatives Robin Kelly (D-IL-2), Rudy Yakym (R-IN-2), and Frank Mrvan (D-IN-1) are leading companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

Full text of the legislation can be found here.

The Calumet Heritage Partnership and the Field Museum of Natural History support the effort to designate the Calumet Region as an NHA.

Statements of Support:

“The Field Museum supports the creation of the National Heritage Area and celebrates the people, places, and landscapes of the Calumet region,” said the Field Museum of Natural History.

“The introduction of this bill is the culmination of years of tireless efforts by the Calumet Heritage Partnership, regional legislators, local communities, and various stakeholders committed to preserving the unique legacy of the Calumet region,” said Calumet Heritage Partnership Board Chair, Gary R. Johnson.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-senator-banks-on-fox-news-sunday/,ICYMI: Senator Banks on Fox News Sunday,2025-12-14,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) joined Fox News Sunday to discuss President Trump’s efforts to protect Americans from narco-terrorists and defeat ISIS in Syria.

Click the image above for the full discussion

Key Excerpts:

ON RESPONDING TO ISIS ATTACK:

Sen. Banks:“We saw the rise of ISIS around the world under the Biden years… I served in Afghanistan, and we saw ISIS-K rise in Afghanistan after the disastrous withdrawal by the Biden administration. Now we’re seeing it, again, rear its head in Syria and other places… there willbe hell to pay for those who are responsible for that attack on American troops.But Donald Trump rooted out and took out the ISIS caliphate in his first termwithout starting another forever war. He’s going to do that again. And I’m going to be there to back him up on the Armed Services Committee. This week we’re going topass the NDAA in the Senate. It passed out of the House last week. And it will goa long way to modernize and rebuild the military after it took a step backwardsunder the Biden.”

ON DRUG BOAT STRIKES:

Sen. Banks:“The fact of the matter is that the president is doing exactly what he was elected to do to take out and strike the narco-terrorists who are flooding drugs into this country. This oil tanker, for example, it was designated as an illegal activity by the Biden administration… President Trump is doing what he’s supposed to do as Commander -in -Chief to save American lives, our sons, our daughters, our neighbors, our family members who have been affected by drug overdoses and hold those who are responsible for it accountable. 71 % of Americans support what President Trump is doing on that front, and I stand with him, too.”

ON REDISTRICTING:

Sen. Banks:“I stood with the president to support redistricting. And the primaries in Indiana are in May. There will be a lot of primaries. Primaries are healthy. And I’ll just tell you this. Donald Trump remains the most popular Republican in the state of Indiana. I’ve seen all the polling, recent polling. You don’t want to be on the other side of Donald Trump. And I can tell you that from personal experience. He endorsed me when I ran for the Senate. He cleared the field. And I’m Senator today largely because of that endorsement. So those primaries will happen, but it’s not about Donald Trump. It’s about the country. It’s about keeping the Republican majority in the House of Representatives and addressing issues like health and saving this country from those who want to tear it down… I’m focused on fighting for Indiana and for our country. President Trump loves Indiana, Indiana loves President Trump. There were a small handful of Republican senators in the state senate who voted against him and they’ll have to face the voters in May and November we’ll see how it plays out.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-releases-statement-on-health-care-freedom-for-patients-act/,Senator Banks Releases Statement on Health Care Freedom for Patients Act,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) voted to bring the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act to the Senate floor. The motion failed to meet the three-fifths majority needed to pass. Notably, every Democrat voted no.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Today I voted in favor of advancing the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act, which would deliver relief directly to American families by putting money back in their pockets and expanding access to affordable plans. Democrats shot down this effort and voted instead to keep prices high with billions more in handouts to insurance companies. I urge them to come to the negotiating table so we can pass a commonsense, bipartisan solution that will actually lower costs.”

Background:

Under the “Affordable” Care Act, deductibles increased 43% over 10 years and the Democrats’ current plan would cost $335 billion over 10 years without solving the problem. The Health Care Freedom for Patients Act addresses those failures by sending premium subsidies directly to individuals instead of insurance companies. Eligible individuals ages 18-49 would receive $1,000 and ages 50-64 would receive $1,500 every year in Health Savings Accounts paired with more affordable plans. This legislation also lowers premiums for everyone and allows anyone to choose a low-cost catastrophic plan if it fits their needs.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/key-provision-to-ban-student-cell-phones-at-dodea-included-in-2026-national-defense-authorization-act/,Key Provision to Ban Student Cell Phones at DoDEA Included in 2026 National Defense Authorization Act,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – On Sunday, the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act text was released and included a key provision introduced by Senator Banks—the Restoring our Educational Focus on Children of U.S. Servicemembers at DoDEA (REFOCUS DoDEA) Act.

In June, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced theREFOCUS DoDEA Act. This legislation will help students at Department of Defense K-12 schools focus more on learning by banning student cellphones in the classroom.

Notably, a Military Times survey found that over a third of servicemembers report dissatisfaction with their children’s education, making it a leading factor behind decisions to leave the military. This provision is part of Senator Banks’ broader efforts to strengthen educational opportunities for military families and improve retention. Senator Banks highlighted this issue at last weekend’s Reagan National Defense Forum (WATCH).

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Cell phones don’t belong in the classroom, and students learn best when these distractions are removed. This provision will ensure DoDEA students are able to focus on what matters most: their education.”

The Restoring our Educational Focus on Children of U.S. Servicemembers at DoDEA:

Requires DoDEA to issue regulations prohibiting student cellphone use during the school day.

Establishes appropriate exceptions, such as allowing for use in medical emergencies.

Provides DoDEA with flexibility to choose how and where to store student cellphones.

Full bill text can be found here.

Background:

The National Defense Authorization Act is U.S. federal law that authorizes annual funding for the Department of Defense and sets policies and priorities.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-urges-administration-to-continue-deportation-efforts-for-illegal-aliens/,Sen. Banks Urges Administration to Continue Deportation Efforts for Illegal Aliens,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) sent a letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem requesting an update on President Trump’s deportation efforts in Indiana. The letter cited recent traffic deaths and injuries allegedly caused by illegal aliens.

In part, the letter reads:

“These tragedies were entirely preventable. Every individual who crosses our borders illegally commits a crime. The vast majority of illegal aliens commit further crimes once they are in the United States. Most illegal aliens commit Social Security or document fraud; many steal government benefits, assault our citizens, and terrorize our communities. Many also unlawfully procure driver’s licenses and trucking

licenses—or simply drive without them—resulting in fatal accidents.

We must deport every one of them. The death of one American caused by an illegal alien is too many. President Biden and President Obama made every state, including Indiana, a border state. I applaud President Trump’s commitment to carrying out the largest deportation operation in American history, and I look forward to continuing to support your efforts in my great state. Hoosiers should not be forced to bear the consequences of open border policies any longer.”

Click here to see the full letter or see text below:

Read more about the bill here.

Dear Secretary Noem:

I write to request an update on President Trump’s efforts to deport illegal aliens in Indiana. In the last two months, four of my constituents have been killed in car crashes involving illegal aliens. At least eight more have been seriously injured.

Five days before Thanksgiving, an elderly driver was killed in a hit-and-run caused by an illegal alien with a fraudulent green card. One day later, another illegal alien struck a husband and wife on their way to pick up their children from their grandparents’ house. This alien also did not have a driver’s license and was driving drunk. The husband and wife are both in critical condition.

Those accidents took place less than a week after an illegal alien from the country of Georgia driving a semi-truck caused a collision that killed a member of the Indiana National Guard and left three more Guardsmen hospitalized. The alien who caused the crash was granted a trucking license by the state of New York even though he had unlawfully crossed the southern border.

And in October, an illegal alien drove a semi-truck headfirst into a 54-year-old man in Northwest Indiana, killing him almost instantly. This driver was using a relative’s expired trucking license and had received tens of thousands of dollars in COVID-19 relief loans.

The Hoosiers harmed in these accidents are not the first whose lives have been jeopardized by mass migration. The Department of Homeland Security just spotlighted over one hundred criminal aliens arrested in Indiana, and those are just the “worst of the worst.”

These tragedies were entirely preventable. Every individual who crosses our borders illegally commits a crime. The vast majority of illegal aliens commit further crimes once they are in the United States. Most illegal aliens commit Social Security or document fraud; many steal government benefits, assault our citizens, and terrorize our communities. Many also unlawfully procure driver’s licenses and trucking

licenses—or simply drive without them—resulting in fatal accidents.

We must deport every one of them. The death of one American caused by an illegal alien is too many. President Biden and President Obama made every state, including Indiana, a border state. I applaud President Trump’s commitment to carrying out the largest deportation operation in American history, and I look forward to continuing to support your efforts in my great state. Hoosiers should not be forced to bear the consequences of open border policies any longer.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and for your efforts to make America—and Indiana—safe again.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-cortez-masto-introduce-legislation-to-spur-small-business-innovation/,"Young, Cortez Masto Introduce Legislation to Spur Small Business Innovation",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) introduced legislation to ensure America’s small businesses can compete in the 21st century economy. The Small Business Innovation Voucher Act would create a voucher program at the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide grants for small businesses to partner with higher education institutions to conduct research and development.

“Our Small Business Innovation Voucher program will build on Indiana’s existing voucher program to facilitate public-private partnerships between small businesses and our world-renowned research institutions. Giving Hoosier entrepreneurs expanded access to world-class lab space and scientists will help drive innovation and enhance economic opportunity across Indiana,” said Senator Young.

“Nevada’s entrepreneurs are at the forefront of job creation and economic growth in the Silver State,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Unfortunately, not every small business owner has the tools and resources to turn a great idea into a technological innovation. This bipartisan legislation would match trailblazing Nevadans with the cutting-edge laboratories and academic expertise our universities are known for.”

The Small Business Innovation Voucher Act would allow small businesses to work with any institution of higher education to compete for grants to facilitate cooperation on research and development and commercialization of new technologies. Specifically, the bill would:

Provide grants of between $15,000 and $75,000 for projects with a high likelihood of creating a novel technology or that would not be completed without the grant money;

Require reports from the grant recipients on use of funds and reports to Congress from the SBA on program effectiveness; and

Authorize $10 million per year for the voucher program.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-hassan-reintroduce-bill-to-reduce-college-costs-and-increase-college-completion-rates/,"Young, Hassan Reintroduce Bill to Reduce College Costs and Increase College Completion Rates",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) reintroduced the Fast Track To and Through College Act, which would create a federal grant program to help states expand opportunities for high school students to begin earning college credits, including through Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and dual-enrollment courses. The program would also require public colleges and universities to accept the credits, making the transfer process more seamless, saving students money and time.

“Early college programs provide students with affordable opportunities to prepare for postsecondary education,” said Senator Young. “Our bill would help create a pathway for more high school students to earn college credits, including providing access to advanced coursework, dual credits, and professional support.”

“In New Hampshire and across the country, many high school students are ready for college-level coursework that will help them develop the skills to be successful in the workforce and life,” said Senator Hassan. “The bipartisan Fast Track To and Through College Act will allow more students to earn college credits while in high school, helping families save money, making college both more accessible and affordable. Young people in our country are looking for pathways to opportunity that won’t saddle them with debt as they face a rapidly changing economy. I encourage my colleagues to join me in lowering college costs and increasing opportunities that help students thrive.”

The Fast Track To and Through College Act is supported by AASA, The School Superintendents Association, Advance CTE, All4Ed, Association for Career and Technical Education, Bard Early Colleges, Center for Higher Education Policy and Practice at SNHU, Complete College America, Education Reform Now, Empower Schools, Jobs for the Future, KnowledgeWorks, Linked Learning Alliance, Massachusetts Alliance for Early College, National Association of Secondary School Principals, National Urban League, New Hampshire Learning Initiative, Michigan Association for Computers in Learning, and Third Way.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/indiana-national-guard-arrives-in-washington-d-c-in-support-of-president-trumps-make-america-safe-again-mission/,"Indiana National Guard Arrives in Washington, D.C., in Support of President Trump’s “Make America Safe Again” Mission",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – On Saturday, approximately 300 Indiana National Guard soldiers arrived inWashington, D.C., to support the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission as part of President Trump’s “Make America Safe Again” agenda.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “I’m grateful to our Indiana National Guardsmen for helping keep our nation’s capital safe. With so many Indiana families visiting D.C. in the spring, their service helps ensure visitors can see our monuments and history safely. They truly represent the best of our state.”

Background:

The Indiana National Guardsmen will assist local and federal law enforcement partners to help deter crime and maintain public order. Soldiers have trained at Camp Atterbury to prepare for the mission since mid-November. As the mission evolves, they will continue training alongside Joint Task Force–District of Columbia.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-strengthen-american-leadership-in-digital-trade/,"Young, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Strengthen American Leadership in Digital Trade",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) led U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), and Michael Bennet (D-Co.) in introducing the Digital Trade Promotion Act, legislation to strengthen America’s global leadership in digital trade.

From the buying and selling of goods in online marketplaces to the digital services that enable smart manufacturing and modern agricultural practices, digital trade has quickly become a driving force in our everyday economy. While the United States has historically led the development of rules and standards for digital trade, other countries, including foreign adversaries and even some allies, are advancing their own digital trade policies that would undermine American businesses and workers.

The Digital Trade Promotion Act would empower the president to negotiate and enforce digital trade agreements with trusted partners and allies, thereby bolstering opportunities for businesses and workers, strengthening our economic security, and ensuring that American values power the digital world.

“China and other strategic competitors are pushing digital regimes that create new barriers and tilt the field against U.S. companies and workers. To ensure American workers, businesses, and consumers can succeed in the digital age, we must cement U.S. leadership in the global digital economy,” said Senator Young. “Negotiating more digital trade agreements with partners and allies will strengthen our economic security, spur more opportunities for Hoosiers, and secure America’s competitive edge.”

“From farmers in Sussex to fintech startups in New Castle County, digital tools help every entrepreneur compete around the world. I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan Digital Trade Promotion Act to help businesses big and small compete on a level playing field and ensure the global rules of the road are rooted in American values of openness, transparency, and fairness,” said Senator Coons.

“Advancing the digital trade of goods and services positively impacts everyone across our state – from farmers and manufacturers to small businesses and consumers,” said Senator Moran. “This legislation allows for greater executive authority to promote trade deals involving digital products and services, reducing digital trade barriers while allowing Congress to exercise necessary oversight of any agreement in order to make certain the American people are prioritized.”

“The United States’ digital sector is the envy of the world, but we cannot allow China to write the rules of the road for the next generation of emerging technology,” said Senator Bennet. “This legislation will ensure the U.S. can work closely with our allies and partners to establish a strong international framework for innovation and consumer protection in the digital age.”

The Digital Trade Promotion Act is endorsed by the Computer and Communications Industry Association.

“The Digital Trade Promotion Act provides the institutional mechanisms needed to reassert U.S. digital leadership in ways that prioritize American innovation. It ensures a modernized statutory framework for U.S. leadership in digital trade by emphasizing Administrative flexibility to effectively negotiate fair trade, while preserving Congress’ meaningful control over binding trade commitments,” said CCIA Vice President for Federal Affairs Brian McMillan.

More specifically, the Digital Trade Promotion Act would:

Reaffirm that digital trade is critical to U.S. growth, jobs, competitiveness, and leadership, and that the United States should lead in setting high-standard rules with like-minded partners.

Authorize the president, through the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), to negotiate, enter, and enforce digital trade agreements with trusted partners that meet specified rule-of-law, openness, and intellectual property protections.

Require that any digital trade agreement cover all sectors and include key negotiating priorities: nondiscrimination for digital goods and services, bans on discriminatory digital taxes and data localization, free cross-border data flows, strong protections for source code and algorithms, interoperable privacy and consumer protections, AI and emerging-tech cooperation, cybersecurity cooperation, and support for open, voluntary international standards.

Establish congressional oversight with advance notice, consultation during negotiations, a pre-signing report, and a defined review window in which Congress can block an agreement.

Direct USTR to monitor partner compliance on an ongoing basis and gives the President tools to respond to violations, including suspending or withdrawing agreement benefits, negotiating corrective and compensatory arrangements, or taking other actions to push partners back into compliance.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-kaine-applaud-inclusion-of-bipartisan-legislation-to-formally-end-iraq-wars-in-fy26-ndaa/,"Young, Kaine Applaud Inclusion of Bipartisan Legislation to Formally End Iraq Wars in FY26 NDAA",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) applauded the inclusion of their bipartisan bill to repeal the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs) against Iraq in the final conferenced version of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The Senate and House voted to include Young and Kaine’s legislation as amendments to the FY26 NDAA.

“I’ve been pushing for years to repeal these outdated AUMFs, and I am pleased that they are included in the final NDAA,” said Senator Young, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. “It’s time to close the book on these forever wars once and for all. Thank you to my colleagues and President Trump for ensuring this important provision remained in the final bill.”

“It has been more than half a century since the United States repealed a war authorization and formally ended an armed conflict. After years of hard work alongside colleagues on both sides of the aisle, advocates, veterans, and military families, I’m glad that we are one step closer to finally repealing the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force against Iraq,” said Senator Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees. “When President Trump signs this legislation into law, it will be a historic victory for our country and for the American people who want to finally close the book on this endless war.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-supports-back-the-blue-act/,Young Supports Back the Blue Act,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined 35 Senate Republican colleagues in introducing the Back the Blue Act, legislation that would increase penalties for criminals who target law enforcement officers and provide new tools for officers to protect themselves.

“Our law enforcement officers risk their lives every day to keep our communities safe,” said Senator Young. “The Back the Blue Act makes clear that attacks on our officers will not be tolerated and provides stronger protections for law enforcement. I’m proud to support this bill and back the blue.”

In addition to Senator Young, U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Marsha Blackburn, (R-Tenn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Shelly Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), and Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) also introduced the legislation.

Background:

The Back the Blue Act would:

Create a new federal crime for killing, attempting to kill, or conspiring to kill a federal judge, federal law enforcement officer, or federally funded public safety officer. The offender would be subject to the death penalty and a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years if death results; the offender would otherwise face a minimum sentence of 10 years.

Create a new federal crime for assaulting a federally funded law enforcement officer with escalating penalties, including mandatory minimums, based on the extent of any injury and the use of a dangerous weapon. However, no prosecution can be commenced absent certification by the Attorney General that prosecution is appropriate.

Create a new federal crime for interstate flight from justice to avoid prosecution for killing, attempting to kill, or conspiring to kill a federal judge, federal law enforcement officer, or federally funded public safety officer. The offender would be subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years for this offense.

Clarify that the murder or attempted murder of a law enforcement officer or first responder is a statutory aggravating factor for purposes of the federal death penalty.

Impose time limits and substantive limits on federal courts’ review of challenges to state-court convictions for crimes involving the murder of a public safety officer, when the public safety officer was engaged in the performance of official duties or on account of the performance of official duties. These changes are consistent with the fast-track procedures created in 1996, which are applied to federal death penalty cases.

Limit the type of civil damages and attorney’s fees recoverable by a criminal as a result of purported injuries incurred during the commission of a felony or crime of violence.

Allow law enforcement officers, subject to limited regulation, to carry firearms into federal facilities and other jurisdictions where such possession is otherwise prohibited.

This legislation is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition (NNOAC), Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), and the Sergeants Benevolent Association NYPD.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-colleagues-urge-review-of-failed-biden-administration-vetting-process-for-afghan-nationals/,"Young, Colleagues Urge Review of Failed Biden Administration Vetting Process for Afghan Nationals",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.), a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, joined Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, and other Committee members in sending a letter to National Security Advisor Marco Rubio urging a review of the Biden Administration’s vetting process for Afghan nationals. Despite assurances to the contrary, the Biden Administration’s failed vetting process following the disastrous August 2021 withdrawal resulted in security risks to American servicemembers and citizens.

In part, the Senators wrote:

“The horrific terror attack in Washington, D.C. the past week that resulted in the shooting of two brave National Guard members demonstrates that it is past time for the United States to revisit the deficiencies of the Biden administration’s vetting process for Afghan nationals and remedy the resulting egregious security threats such a process created in the United States after the disastrous August 2021 withdrawal. We urge you to take immediate action to prevent future attacks on American servicemen and citizens.”

Full text of the letter can be found here and below:

Dear Secretary Rubio:

The horrific terror attack in Washington, D.C. the past week that resulted in the shooting of two brave National Guard members demonstrates that it is past time for the United States to revisit the deficiencies of the Biden administration’s vetting process for Afghan nationals and remedy the resulting egregious security threats such a process created in the United States after the disastrous August 2021 withdrawal. We urge you to take immediate action to prevent future attacks on American servicemen and citizens.

Contrary to the previous administration’s assertion that all Afghan nationals were subject to “enhanced vetting,” repeated reports by various Offices of Inspectors General (OIGs) presented to Congress reveal a different story. A February 2022 Department of War (DoW) OIG report found that Operation Allies Refuge and Operation Allies Welcome did not use all available DoW data to vet Afghan evacuees, including the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS). This database, compiled over the past 20 years, contains tactical data collected on the battlefield in Afghanistan. After an initial review of Afghan Evacuee data with the ABIS database, the National Ground Intelligence Center (NGIC) found that at least 50 individuals had “potentially significant security concerns.” These range from the benign, such as a petty theft from a military base, to the serious, such as fingerprints found on improvised explosive devices. A September 2022 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) OIG report agreed with the DoW report and further found that approximately 31,000 Afghan evacuees were allowed into the country before DHS could form a taskforce to vet and support their resettlement. Congress is further aware of potentially hundreds of evacuees that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has found to have potential links to terrorism after their arrival in the United States.

Repeated requests from the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence to multiple agencies during the previous administration, including DoW, the National Counterterrorism Center, NGIC, the Defense Intelligence Agency, and FBI for more information about these individuals and what risks – if any – their presence inside this country poses to public security have gone largely unanswered. Four years after the United States’ withdrawal from Afghanistan, it is still unclear to what extent the Intelligence Community (IC) or law enforcement authorities are monitoring or tracking these individuals. Therefore, we respectfully request that you instruct DHS, DoW, and the IC to:

Implement the vetting procedures recommended by the 2022 DoW OIG report in their entirety for all Afghan evacuees currently in the United States;

Identify and locate those evacuees discovered to have significant security concerns; and

Seek immediate removal of such evacuees from the United States back to Afghanistan or other third countries, as appropriate.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this request, and we look forward to your response.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-lifts-hold-on-air-force-colonel-sebren/,Senator Banks Lifts Hold on Air Force Colonel Sebren,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) lifted a hold on the promotion of United States Air Force Colonel George H. Sebren after Col. Sebren committed to restoring merit-based promotions and abandoning the woke policies that were disastrous for our military under the Biden administration. Senator Banks placed a hold on his promotion in July due to Col. Sebren’s previous support for military promotions based on race and gender.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “After speaking with Under Secretary of the Air Force Matthew Lohmeier and hearing directly from Colonel Sebren, I’m confident he understands the urgency of restoring merit and excellence in our armed forces. I’m grateful for his service and encouraged to see military leaders standing up against the divisive, woke politics that weakened the Pentagon under Joe Biden.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-introduces-the-ai-workforce-prepare-act/,Senator Banks Introduces the AI Workforce PREPARE Act,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Yesterday, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced the AI Workforce PREPARE Act, which enhances federal agencies’ ability to assess AI’s impact on the workforce and makes education and job training programs more effective. The bill will help prepare the American worker to win in the AI economy. Original cosponsors of the bill include Senators Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), and Jon Husted (R-Ohio).

Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “We have to understand how AI is changing the workforce so we can equip American workers with the skills necessary to stay ahead of China and lead the world.”

Senator Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.): “American workers cannot be left behind as American corporations continue to push forward with the development and adoption of artificial intelligence. This bipartisan legislation helps the federal government better assess the ways in which artificial intelligence is changing our economy and helps ensure that increased automation does not result in fewer jobs for hard-working American families.”

Senator John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.): “We can’t sit in the backseat while AI transforms our workforce. Workers, employers, and educators need a roadmap to understand these new directions. Our bipartisan bill will help deliver that map so that we can leverage AI and make sure American workers lead the way.”

Senator Jon Husted (R-Ohio): “There is no question that AI will significantly transform the way we work in the coming years, and it’s important that we have the facts on how our workforce will be impacted and evolve. America must lead and win the global innovation race, and this bill ensures our workforce not only avoids being left behind, but is prepared to lead the way in developing and using new technology.”

Americans for Responsible Innovation President Brad Carson: “Our workforce is potentially facing a large-scale disruption as AI is integrated in our economy. In order to respond effectively with programs that support workers during an era of unprecedented automation, we need better data. Policymakers need to know what jobs are being eliminated, what new work is being created, and how we can train a workforce prepared for the future. The AI Workforce PREPARE Act gets right to the heart of that issue by supporting high-quality economic data collection, analysis, and forecasting on AI’s impact.”

Key Provisions of the AI Workforce PREPARE Act:

Create an AI Workforce Research Hub to help implement the White House’s AI Action Plan.

Solicit ideas from the public and convene researchers, technical experts, business, and labor to improve data collection on AI and the workforce.

Enhance the Labor Department’s authorities to hire a core group of AI experts.

Carry out a pilot project to produce statistics on workers’ job changes as they are affected by AI

Increase researchers’ access to the federal government’s workforce data.

Conduct prize competitions to better understand AI adoption, job impacts, and how AI systems augment or automate tasks in particular occupations.

Facilitate voluntary public-private partnerships to share anonymized data on how users are adopting AI.

Improve AI-related questions in federal surveys.

Update the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notice (WARN) Act to provide basic information to employees if AI is a substantial factor in a layoff.

Improve the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ occupational projections.

Produce a report on how better AI forecasts can be incorporated into grantmaking decisions.

Conduct a study on how to design more effective rapid retraining programs to assist workers displaced by AI.

Use AI-informed projections to update states’ in-demand occupation lists, which are used to allocate training funding.

Encourage federal agencies, states, local governments, and businesses to collect and report labor market data in more consistent ways.

Apply existing privacy protections and accessibility requirements to all data collected and exchanged.

Full text of the bill can be found here.

Background:

According to KPMG, 66% of people already use AI in some way, and according to the IMF, 40% of jobs already incorporate or are affected by AI.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-on-fox-and-friends-president-trump-is-first-potus-in-40-years-serious-about-fighting-war-on-drugs/,Senator Banks on Fox and Friends: “President Trump is First POTUS in 40 Years Serious About Fighting War on Drugs”,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) joined Fox & Friends to discuss the recent Washington, D.C. shooting of two National Guardsmen by an Afghan national, and President Trump and Secretary Hegseth’s efforts to protect Americans from narco-terrorists.

Click the image above for the full discussion

Key Excerpts:

Sen. Banks on Vetting Afghanistan Nationals: “When Biden pulled out of Afghanistan disastrously, what happened there was a shameful moment in American history on Joe Biden’s watch… Even worse now is finding out that Joe Biden and his administration allowed terrorists to come into our country. Three notable arrests, including the tragic killing terrorist act in Washington, D.C. a week ago. I think we’re going to find out, sadly, a lot more cases, a lot more ties to ISIS -K and terrorist groups abroad, all on Joe Biden’s watch… the blame falls at his feet for what he allowed to happen.”

***

“President Trump is serious about vetting these Afghan nationals. Tens of thousands of them we don’t even know their first names, their last names, their birth dates. They were never properly vetted in the first place. And now it’s time to make up for that mistake. And that’s what President Trump is doing.”

Sen. Banks on Secretary Hegseth’s Narco-terrorist Strikes: “We want to learn the truth. And the more that we learn the truth, the more we realize that President Trump and Secretary of War Hegseth are doing exactly what the American people elected them to do. And that’s to protect America from narco-terrorists who are flooding our country with poisonous drugs. Over 70 % of Americans support President Trump striking these drug boats… Admiral Bradley did exactly what he was supposed to do to prevent these drug coming into our country. This was an active operation.”

***

“The fact of the matter is under Joe Biden, the open borders, the poisonous drugs flowing into our country killed over 100,000 Americans a year that’s more every year than who, than those Americans who died in the war in Vietnam. And now President Trump is the first president that we’ve had in 40 years, who’s been serious about fighting the war on drugs, and he’s taking on the drug cartels exactly as we expect him to do. So the truth confirms that President Trump and Secretary Hegseth are executing the operation exactly as the American people elected them and expect them to do.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-on-the-will-cain-show-americans-support-president-trumps-strikes-on-drug-boats/,Senator Banks on The Will Cain Show: Americans Support President Trump’s Strikes on Drug Boats,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) joined The Will Cain Show to President Trump and Secretary Hegseth’s efforts to protect Americans from narco-terrorists.

Click the image above for the full discussion

Key Excerpts:

Sen. Banks on Secretary Hegseth’s Narco-terrorist Strikes: “President Trump is doing exactly what the American people elected him to do. He’s secured the border and now he’s keeping us safe and stopping this poison from flooding into our country. He’s the first president in my life who’s been serious about the war on drugs, declaring war on the cartels. And Secretary of War Pete Hegseth is doing a great job, an exceptional job of executing President Trump’s strategy to do that… 71 % of Americans support President Trump and what he’s doing to strike these drug boats and stopping poison from coming into our country. And that’s what makes the Democrat position so ridiculous.”

***

“The American people are on the president’s side. They’re on Pete Hegseth’s side to stop the drugs and the poison from coming into our country… Tom Cotton, the chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, came out of that briefing today and said it was all justified. The attacks on these narco-terrorists was justified then… It’s been justified every day since. And I hope President Trump and Secretary Hegseth keep up the good work and keep doing what they’re doing to save the lives of so many American people. Under Joe Biden, we had hundreds of thousands of Americans who died of drug poisonings because of drugs flowing into our country. And Donald Trump and Pete Hegseth said, they’re putting a stop to it.”

***

“… The President of the United States, the Commander-in-Chief has Article II powers to protect the homeland, to keep America safe, and to stop the poison from coming into this country. He’s entirely justified already… President Trump and Secretary Hegseth are doing exactly what the American people gave the President a mandate last November to do, and they’re doing it in a very effective way… We’re already seeing the number of drug overdoses in America decline.. And that number is going to keep going down because of these strikes on drug boats and the activities of this military and the Department of War going after these narco-terrorists. I’m very proud of what they’re doing, and again, I hope they keep it up… I’m going to back him up in every way that I can.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-recognizes-students-who-completed-fall-internship-in-indiana-and-washington/,Young Recognizes Students Who Completed Fall Internship in Indiana and Washington,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) recognized students who participated in the fall session of his internship program in his Washington, D.C., Indianapolis, and New Albany offices. The students assisted with daily activities and special projects related to legislation, communications, and constituent services.

The Washington, D.C. internship class included (from left to right): Erik McCray, a recent Indiana University Bloomington graduate; Jorie Allen, a Bedford native and recent DePaul University graduate; Collin Monesmith, an Indianapolis native graduating from Indiana University Bloomington in December 2025; and Josie O’Rourke, a student at the University of Denver.

The Indianapolis internship class included (from left to right): Maria Abdelmalek, a Carmel native and junior at Butler University; Ryan Riddlesperger, a senior at Purdue University; Charles Alderice, a Fort Wayne native and senior at Purdue University; and Ashlyn Moritz, a Westfield native and recent Bob Jones University graduate.

The New Albany internship class included Sam Goldman Brown, a Georgetown native and student at Ivy Tech Community College in Sellersburg.

Senator Young’s office offers internship opportunities year-round, in both his Washington, D.C. and Indianapolis offices. The internship program offers students the opportunity to experience the legislative branch of government and serve Hoosiers.

Students interested in applying can visit Senator Young’s internship webpage or call 202-224-5623 to learn more.

Senator Young released a video to provide more information about the internship program.

***Full resolution photos available upon request.***",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-booker-introduce-bill-to-help-american-workers-families-build-emergency-savings/,"Young, Booker Introduce Bill to Help American Workers, Families Build Emergency Savings",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) introduced the Emergency Savings Enhancement Act, legislation to help American workers and families save for unexpected expenses without having to tap into their retirement accounts.

“As a father of four, I understand the impact that unexpected expenses can have on a family budget. Our bill will provide workers and families with additional options to build savings for unexpected expenses, without tapping into retirement savings. If passed, our bill will support Indiana families and build financial security for working Hoosiers,” said Senator Young.

“For millions of working families, an unexpected expense can quickly push them into financial turmoil—even more so as families face rising costs of rent, groceries, and other essentials,” said Senator Booker. “In 2022, Senator Young and I passed legislation to create emergency savings accounts to help families weather these storms while also saving for their retirement. Today, we are introducing a proposal building on that progress, enhancing emergency savings accounts to help strengthen workers’ financial stability and support their path to a secure retirement.”

The Emergency Savings Enhancement Act would modify pension-linked emergency savings accounts (PLESAs) by:

Increasing the maximum contribution limit from $2,500 to $5,000 to allow for greater emergency savings.

Expanding eligibility to include all employees who otherwise meet a retirement plan’s general requirements, eliminating the administrative burden of continuously monitoring eligibility requirements.

The Emergency Savings Enhancement Act is supported by the following organizations: BPC Action, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Taxpayers Union, Alight, Aspen Institute, Commonwealth, Financial Finesse, Progressive Policy Institute, Prosperity Now, SaverLife, Sunny Day Fund, Third Way, T. Rowe Price, UnidosUS, Vestwell, Voya, and WISER.

“Too many working Americans are one emergency expense away from financial hardship,” said Michele Stockwell, President of BPC Action. “This commonsense bill, led by Sens. Todd Young (R-IN) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Reps. Eugene Vindman (D-VA) and Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), tackles that problem by making it easier for employers to help their workers automatically save for an emergency, alongside their retirement accounts. By passing the Emergency Savings Enhancement Act of 2025, Congress can build on the progress of the bipartisan SECURE 2.0 Act and strengthen middle class financial security.”

The full bill text can be found here. A summary of the bill can be found here.

U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-VA-07) and Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA-15) are leading companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-leads-delegation-letter-of-support-for-indiana-drone-test-site-application/,Young Leads Delegation Letter of Support for Indiana Drone Test Site Application,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) led a letter in support of the application submitted by Hoosier stakeholders for Indiana to be a recipient of one of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Test Site designations. This letter was signed by the entire Indiana congressional delegation.

“Indiana is uniquely situated to best assist the FAA in integrating UAS into the national airspace system as well as advance the United States’ capacities for manufacturing and deploying drone technologies. Between the geographical location in the heart of the Midwest, the already numerous testing assets for a variety of missions, and state and federal representatives who are committed to supporting advancement of these critical technologies, our state is poised to provide the best outcomes for American leadership in drone manufacturing and deployment,” the Indiana congressional delegation wrote in its support letter.

The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 authorized the FAA to establish two additional test sites to its existing UAS Test Site program. If selected as one of the new test sites, Indiana would play a critical role in reestablishing U.S. drone dominance, and it would open doors for Hoosier universities, state and federal government entities, and manufacturers to collaborate on new drone technologies. The test site would also complement the executive order on drones signed by Indiana Governor Mike Braun in October that Senator Young helped develop.

The full delegation support letter is available here.

In addition to Senator Young, the letter was signed by Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) and Representatives Frank Mrvan (D-IN-01), Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02), Marlin Stutzman (R-IN-03), Jim Baird (R-IN-04), Victoria Spartz (R-IN-05), Jefferson Shreve (R-IN-06), Andre Carson (D-IN-07), Mark Messmer (R-IN-08), and Erin Houchin (R-IN-09).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-young-announces-nominees-for-united-states-service-academies-7/,Senator Young Announces Nominees for United States Service Academies,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) announced his nominations for U.S. service academy appointments. Applications were received from 150 Hoosier students, and a select group of students was interviewed by an advisory board that was chosen by Senator Young. Out of 80 offered interviews, 44 exemplary young men and women from across Indiana received a nomination to at least one service academy from Senator Young.

A nomination does not guarantee admission to a service academy, but is required in order to be considered. Nominees are chosen based on personal merit. Criteria considered include evidence of character, leadership, academic excellence, physical aptitude, and extracurricular activities.

“This year, I had the privilege of recommending a talented group of 44 Hoosiers for admission to the United States service academies,” said Senator Young.“These young men and women are highly qualified to serve our country, and I’m very proud of their hard work. I wish them the best of luck in their application process.”

Senator Young’s service academy nominees are listed below:

United States Air Force Academy

Caroline Crews

Roncalli High School

*Also nominated to the United States Military Academy

Isaac Going

Columbus East High School

*Also nominated to the United States Naval Academy

Allison Heine

Homestead High School

*Also nominated to the United States Naval Academy and the United States Merchant Marine Academy

Roman Heller

Center Grove High School

*Also nominated to the United States Military Academy

Daniel Larsen

Zionsville Community High School

Noah Lorincz

Westfield High School

Jacen Madeira

Bloomington High School North

*Also nominated to the United States Military Academy

Daniel Michael

Cathedral High School

*Also nominated to the United States Military Academy

Cameron Reddick

Lake Central High School

Jonathan Schumann

Zionsville Community High School

Marshall Snyder

Heritage Hills High School

Michael Solymosi

John Glenn High School

Diego Stanis Farias

Avon High School

*Also nominated to the United States Naval Academy

Jacob Trueblood

Taylor High School

Taylor Zhang

Carmel High School

*Also nominated to the United States Military Academy

United States Merchant Marine Academy

Brennan Baker

Hamilton Southeastern High School

Lydia Korzekwa

Lawrence North High School

Jacob Kyle

Penn High School

Hayden Oberlin

Concordia Lutheran High School

Ethan Podlesak

Plymouth High School

Bobby Scott

Crown Point High School

Parker St. John

Roncalli High School

Dalton Strange

Loogootee High School

Christian Touzard

Academia Interamericana de Panamá

United States Military Academy

Owen Buccellato

Trinity Academy South Bend

Tobin Busch

La Lumiere School

Caleb Haney

Westfield High School

Talon Jessup

Columbus East High School

Bentley Jones

Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory High School

Quentin Klee

Guerin Catholic High School

*Also nominated to the United States Naval Academy

Connor Pugh

Hamilton Southeastern High School

*Also nominated to the United States Naval Academy

Evan Roudebush

Bloomington High School South

Josette Sandifur

Bishop Chatard High School

Declan Squires

Culver Academies

United States Naval Academy

Courtney Bassi

Guerin Catholic Highschool

Danica Geyer

Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School

Lincoln Greene

Corydon Central High School

Andrew Millay

Our Lady of Providence High School

Ian Miller

Seeger Memorial Junior Senior High School

Nevaeh Navarre

Culver Academies

Jack O’Shea

Marian Catholic High School

Rebecca Rustin

Western Boone Jr-Sr. Highschool

Amber Summers

Corydon Central High School

Ellie Walker

Crawfordsville High School",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-asks-dhs-to-locate-and-vet-previously-unvetted-afghan-nationals-admitted-under-biden/,Senator Banks Asks DHS to Locate and Vet Previously Unvetted Afghan Nationals Admitted Under Biden,2025-11-26,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – In 2021, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) sounded the alarm about the Biden Administration’s admission of unvetted Afghan nationals into the United States during “Operation Allies Welcome.” Earlier today, two National Guardsmen were tragically shot by one of those Afghan nationals.

Following the shooting, Senator Banks called on DHS Secretary Noem to immediately locate and vet all Afghan nationals let in by the Biden Administration during “Operation Allies Welcome.”

“The Trump Administration should deport any and all Afghan nationals found without legal status. Likewise, refugees with legal status, but who fail to pass vetting standards, should have their status revoked and be deported,” Sen. Banks said.

ICYMI: Senator Banks’ 2021 Warnings:

Click the images above or the following links to view Sen. Banks tweets from 2021 and 2022:

https://twitter.com/senatorbanks/status/1438185170578903044?s=46

https://twitter.com/senatorbanks/status/1567910084885315584?s=42

ICYMI: Senator Banks’ Statements Following Today’s Shooting:

Click the images above or the following links to view Sen. Banks statements on today’s shooting:

https://twitter.com/SenatorBanks/status/1993850138599793136?s=20

https://twitter.com/SenatorBanks/status/1993844537081647444?s=20

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-column-a-lesson-from-the-iron-lady/,YOUNG COLUMN: A lesson from the Iron Lady,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"The following column by U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) was published in the Washington Examiner on November 25, 2025.

Margaret Thatcher’s tenure as prime minister of the United Kingdom ended 35 years ago this month.

In her final week in office, during a debate in Parliament on inequality, she raised one hand high and the other low to illustrate the gap between rich and poor. Then, with a sharp motion, she thrust both hands upward, showing that, yes, the gap was widening, but everyone was moving up: a development preferable, she believed, to a leveling-down society where envy replaced aspiration.

Baroness Thatcher’s political career was, in large measure, defined by championing freedom and fighting against collectivism. Great Britain was struggling with stagflation after years of socialist-inspired Labour Party policies — nationalization of England’s economy, the excessive empowerment of its trade unions, and high tax rates. She aspired to transform her country into a “get-up-and-go instead of a sit-back-and-wait-for-it” nation.

What would Thatcher say today, as democratic socialism finds favor again, this time across the Atlantic? Americans are increasingly intrigued by statist policies as a means to make life more affordable.

To those in America who share her commitment to liberty and markets, she would perhaps recite her favorite line from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s Faust: “That which thy fathers bequeath thee, earn it anew if thou wouldst possess it.” It was more than a line of poetry. For her, it was a governing philosophy.

Thatcher earned it anew with bold new approaches to unleash the full human potential of the British people — to steer her nation from lethargy and despondency back to a healthy, strong, self-confident nationalism. She cut taxes and red tape, reined in spending, tightened the money supply, privatized bloated state industries, and took on militant public-sector unions that paralyzed her nation.

Her record was not flawless, but the results were undeniable: She showed the English-speaking world that conservatism need not mean inertia — that a movement rooted in tradition can also be an engine of reform.

Today, on the American Right, our own engine of reform needs tuning. Earlier this month, New York City and Seattle offered possible previews of the consequences of ignoring this task.

Both cities elected socialist mayors who promised a slate of what Thatcher would describe as “sit-back-and-wait-for-it” policies: free healthcare and transit on city buses, government-run grocery stores, and significant hikes to personal, property, and capital gains taxes.

Conservatives might be tempted to dismiss these elections as anomalies; after all, who should be surprised that far-left candidates won elections in deep blue metropolises? It is notable, though, that 75% of New Yorkers between the ages of 18 and 29 supported Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. Here, again, skeptics have categorized these as downwardly mobile, highly educated elites.

But could a development beyond reflexive progressivism be driving the new popularity of socialist ideas? And could it spread to purplish districts?

After all, citizens, especially those entering prime working age, who are looking for solutions, are likely to support candidates who present solutions, even ruinous ones. And doubts about mobility naturally breed envy of success and policies that punish it.

One of the defining statistics of the era is the current average age of new homeowners: 40. A generation ago, in the early 1990s, it was 28. Homeownership, often associated with the American dream and upward mobility, is increasingly out of reach for young Americans.

In America, as elsewhere, the last 35 years have brought tectonic structural changes to our economy through rapid globalization, automation, and urbanization. Creative destruction has delivered prosperity, but median real wages have stagnated, wealth inequality has risen, and rates of upward mobility have declined dramatically.

Americans are leveraged by debt, struggling to access mortgages, afford healthcare, and pay for groceries and electricity.

Mix in perceptions of entrenched institutional nepotism and special interest cronyism, and it is no wonder many working Americans think the system is rigged and they don’t have a fair shot at success based on their abilities.

But just as New Yorkers may soon discover, though the problems socialists seek to address are real, the remedies they present are wrong. The only thing socialism equalizes is misery. Thatcher’s hands, representing the haves and yet to haves, both moved upwards. Under socialism, the hands move closer together but not upwards.

No, America’s destiny is not statism.

President Donald Trump has given voice to a multiracial, multiethnic coalition of working-class Americans who have grown frustrated by a leadership class regarded as insular, self-interested, and deficient in traditional standards of respect and character.

This movement has appealed to merit and begun the process of repairing the barnacle-encrusted ladders connecting ambition to opportunity. A process is begun, but we must go further to earn it anew. Until we do, a vacuum remains in which the appeal of socialism as an answer to these societal and economic troubles expands.

A new “hands” speech for our time would begin where Thatcher’s ended — with faith in individual initiative. But it would extend that faith beyond its current trajectory to a shared national obligation: to keep opportunity open.

It would reject redistribution, while acknowledging that dynamism depends on opportunity — that markets thrive only when talent from every corner can grasp the same rungs of advancement, even if outcomes will always be unequal.

It would, in short, ensure that in America, merit is rewarded.

Such a message would not scold or promise handouts. It would reaffirm the moral case for earned success while recognizing that healthy capitalism requires maintenance: investments in education, fair competition, and the rule of law that keep markets open and merit meaningful.

Thatcher’s two hands — one high, one low, both rising — symbolized a society lifting itself together. Our task now is to resume that lift, making sure no hand rises by weighing another down.

This must be the measuring stick for American democracy and for 21st-century conservative leadership. If the invisible hand of the market is to endure, it must once again be connected to the visible hands that work, build, and rise.

As Thatcher taught us, the work of conservatives is not to preserve the past unchanged, but to earn it anew.

Todd Young is the senior U.S. senator from Indiana. He served as the student representative to Chairwoman Margaret Thatcher at the Institute of United States Studies in London from 2000 to 2001.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-lankford-move-to-protect-medical-residents-from-coercive-abortion-training-practices/,"Young, Lankford Move to Protect Medical Residents from Coercive Abortion Training Practices",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and James Lankford (R-Okla.) recently introduced the Conscience Protections for Medical Residents Act. The legislation would ensure medical students and residents are not pressured or coerced into abortion training that violates their moral or religious beliefs. The bill would also clear federal protections so that residents are not forced to choose between their conscience and their careers.

“Medical students who believe in the sanctity of life should not be pressured to participate in trainings that contradict their values. Our bill will protect the conscience rights of young medical professionals and ensure they can choose life as they advance their careers,” said Senator Young.

“Medical residents should never be pressured to violate their beliefs in order to finish their training or advance in their careers,” said Senator Lankford. “Many went into medicine to protect life, not take it. No one should have to choose between their conscience and their future in medicine. Our bill makes that clear and ensures medical students and residents can follow their convictions as they care for their patients.”

Under current rules from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, residents are allowed to opt out of abortion training, but the opt-out system puts pressure on trainees to participate in procedures that violate their moral or religious beliefs. Residents often fear that opting out could affect evaluations, recommendations, or future career opportunities.

The Conscience Protections for Medical Residents Act would replace the opt-out system with an opt-in system. This would ensure residents can choose whether to participate in abortion training and protect them from discrimination or retaliation if they decline.

In addition to Senators Young and Lankford, Senators Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) also joined the legislation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-celebrates-250th-birthday-of-the-u-s-marine-corps/,Young Celebrates 250th Birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"**Click here or above to watch Senator Young’s floor speech.**

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.), a Marine veteran, spoke on the Senate floor about the 250th Birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps, officially celebrated on November 10, 2025.

“Whether on land, sea, or air…in war or peace…in the service or after it…For 250 years, the U.S. Marine Corps has not just trained warriors but made citizens. There are no fiercer defenders of our freedom. No greater examples of the virtues that make our republic function,” said Young.

In his remarks, Young spoke about a photo of three young Indiana University students who swore the oath to defend their country in March 1942.

To watch the full floor speech, click here.

Senator Young’s full remarks are below:

On the campus of Indiana University, a tablet placed on the floor of the Student Union pays tribute to the men and women who served in the Civil War.

Over 80 years ago, in March 1942, three young Hoosiers stood over that marker, raised their right hands, and joined those ranks.

When the oath began, they were college students, in the last days of childhood.

When it was complete, they were Marines, the first to fight for their country…

They joined a long line of American heroes dating all the way back to the Revolutionary War.

On November 10, 1775, when America contemplated a difficult amphibious assault of the British supply hub in Nova Scotia, the Continental Congress called for the raising of a regiment to execute the difficult expedition.

A special breed of warrior capable of fighting on land and sea.

Just the type of men, “acquainted with maritime affairs,” as the Continental Congress phrased it, were to be found at Tun Tavern, a brewhouse on Philadelphia’s waterfront.

On the same day the colonial government passed its resolution, they commissioned Samuel Nicholas to raise this force.

Not long after, he walked through the tavern’s door and appointed its owner Robert Mullan chief recruiter.

Together, with the lure of high adventure, mugs full of cold beer, and the call to defend their homes, they enlisted two battalions of men.

They were the first members of the United States Marine Corps.

Beginning on that day in Philadelphia, to countless days like the one on the campus of Indiana University, millions of men and women have answered their nation’s call.

For two hundred and fifty years, from the shores of Nassau to the walls of Abbey Gate, they have defended our flag, our way of life, and freedom’s friends, far from its shores…

They have been asked and often done the impossible.

Because of their daring, their relentlessness, and their ingenuity…

…the United States Marine Corps will always be synonymous with danger….

…danger to any foe that would threaten the American people.

A history of vanquished foes can testify to this:

Barbary Pirates, whose strongholds Leathernecks marched across the African desert to conquer.

British Redcoats mowed down during the Battle of New Orleans, when Marines formed the center of the city’s defense under General Jackson.

Mexican cadets, who watched as Marines stormed the Halls of Montezuma and raised the stars and stripes over Chapultepec Castle.

German soldiers driven from Belleau Wood by the greatly outnumbered, 4th Marine Brigade.

Japanese troops who bombarded Marines as they landed on the black sands of Iwo Jima…

…and then listened from their bunkers as the Americans cheered while six members of the 5th Marine Division planted their flag at the summit of Mount Suribachi.

The al-Qaeda insurgents killed and captured in Fallujah when the Marines fought from street to street, house to house.

These and countless other battles were won at terrible cost; tens of thousands Marines killed or wounded in action; widows and widowers, sons and daughters left behind.

The history of the Marine Corps is one of incredible heroism and great sacrifice.

But to reduce the Marine Corps only to those virtues, is to understate its importance in American history.

Marines are not simply warriors, but, as Ronald Reagan once said, the ideal of “soldierly virtue.”

On the wall of my office hangs my Mameluke – the curved saber a Marine carries at his side.

Its history began on “the shores of Tripoli” when that band of Marines took the Libyan port city of Derna.

For this victory, they were awarded a mameluke from an Ottoman prince. Two decades later it officially became part of an officer’s dress uniform.

Today its use is largely ceremonial. But if used wisely, it becomes a tool with multiple purposes; like the Marine who carries it.

Marines are not just taught the virtues that make men and women soldiers — courage under fire and physical strength — but also the ones that make them good citizens once their service has ended.

This photograph captures the moment in 1942 when those three young Indiana University students swore the oath to defend their country.

The lives of the men in it, on the battlefield and off of it, demonstrated what it means to be a Marine.

They were honorable.

Three years after the picture was snapped, the man at its center wandered Okinawa, searching for souvenirs to send home.

He was there as part of the American assault on the island, a precursor to attacks on the Japanese mainland.

“The death and destruction leave bad taste in my mouth and strike me deeply as the horrible part of the war,” Lieutenant Maurice “Pat” David wrote his family in Nashville.

But the cause was just, he wrote.

The bodies of old women and young girls murdered by the Imperial Japanese Army proved it.

He encouraged his parents not to worry about his safety.

But months later he was severely wounded, returned to the states and later awarded a Purple Heart.

Through his service in the Corps, Lieutenant Col. David attended law school in Washington, DC.

Then he served as a legal officer before retiring from the Marine Corps after 22 years of service.

He then returned home to Indiana, settling in Columbus with his wife and daughters.

Lt. David served his country with honor during his time in the Marine Corps. He did the same for his community after it concluded.

He was elected a Superior Court Judge, practiced law for nearly 20 years, and, after retiring, served as a senior judge in Southern Indiana.

As a lawyer, he was dedicated to his clients.

As a judge, he treated the attorneys before him thoughtfully, reasoning they were clients as well.

When he died in 2016, it was after living a life defined by what he learned in the Marines Corps: integrity, devotion to justice, service for a cause greater than oneself.

They were courageous.

The man to Lt. David’s right in the photo was Leonard Alford, of Garrett, Indiana.

A year after he stood at the memorial plaque in Bloomington, Alford sat in a tent staring at the Pacific Ocean.

“I know you have been worried because you have not heard from me,” he wrote to his parents from an island he was not at liberty to name.

He had earned a Silver Star, leading the men of the 4th Marine Raider Battalion in battle on New Georgia as his men fought across the Solomon Islands.

Afterwards, they were redesignated the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines and Alford was made company captain.

Members of the original 4th Marine Regiment were lost on Bataan and Corregidor.

“We hope to be able to keep their good name,” he shared with his family.

Because of Captain Alford’s courage they did.

Two years later, when Captain Alford was awarded a second Silver Star, which was turned to Gold, it was posthumously.

In the closing weeks of the Okinawa campaign, he led a charge towards one the island’s remaining Japanese strongholds.

Under heavy fire, ignoring his safety, he steadied the Marines, insured their advance and sacrificed his life for the success of the campaign and the freedom of his country.

They were committed.

The last man in the photo was Corporal John Irwin Murray, Hartford City.

In the years after the photo was taken, he remained on campus, drilling with Pershing Rifles.

After graduation he trained on Parris Island.

Corporal Murray spent sixteen months on Guadalcanal and Guam; then he was deployed to China with the 6th Marines Division.

After the war, he settled in California where he married and raised a family and worked as an accountant and a teacher.

Unlike the two other Marines in the photo, there is very little public information about Corporal Murray’s life – occasional updates in the Indiana University alumni magazine on his time in the Marines, his letters home from the Pacific lamenting how few other Hoosiers he met there.

He lived a meaningful civilian life, without fanfare.

Commitment to duty doesn’t demand glory or a long military career—it’s about showing up when needed and then quietly contributing to society afterward.

Our service continues in the everyday work of building communities and supporting families.

Corporal Murray represents something essential about the Marine Corps:

Most of us who serve will return to become good citizens, neighbors, and workers, carrying a sense of duty into ordinary American life.

That’s not less important than the other two paths; it’s an expression of the same commitment.

Whether on land, sea, or air… in war or peace…in the service or after it…For 250 years, the U.S. Marine Corps has not just trained warriors but made citizens.

There are no fiercer defenders of our freedom.

No greater examples of the virtues that make our republic function.

As we celebrate this great anniversary throughout the month of November, we thank and salute the men in that photo, and every member of the Corps, always faithful, for their service and for their sacrifices.

It is impossible to imagine America without the Marines.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-repeal-burdensome-federal-housing-mandates/,"Young, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Repeal Burdensome Federal Housing Mandates",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined a group of Republican colleagues inintroducing legislation to eliminate expensive Biden-era Green New Deal housing mandates. The HOUSE Act would repeal the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Determination on energy efficiency standards for new construction of HUD-and-USDA-financed housing.

“Hoosiers continue to face rising housing costs, and policymakers should be working to expand housing supply and affordability, not imposing new hurdles. These Biden-era mandates add unnecessary expenses and slow down construction at a time when families need relief,” said Senator Young. “Our legislation will restore common-sense standards to increase our housing supply, lower costs, and ensure hard-working Americans have access to safe, affordable places to live.”

Background:

The HOUSE Act would:

Repeal the HUD and USDA Final Determination on energy efficiency standards for new construction of HUD-and-USDA-financed housing.

Require HUD and USDA to revert to the 2009 standards that are already in effect. This would alleviate the undue pressure that is being put on an already constrained housing supply.

Prohibit the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from implementing a similar mandate for VA mortgages. It would also clarify that the Federal Housing Finance Agency has no statutory authority to impose similar mandates.

Reform underlying law by prohibiting HUD and USDA from adopting new efficiency mandates unless at least 26 states have already adopted similar standards.

In addition to Senator Young, U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) also introduced the legislation.

Representative Andy Biggs (R-AZ-05) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-kelly-introduce-legislation-to-protect-american-ai-innovation/,"Young, Kelly Introduce Legislation to Protect American AI Innovation",2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), both members of the Senate Intelligence Committee, introduced the Advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) Security Readiness Act. The legislation would direct the National Security Agency (NSA) to develop an AI security playbook to protect America’s advanced technology from foreign adversaries.

“America’s leadership in advanced technology depends on our ability to protect it. As our foreign adversaries race to steal and exploit cutting-edge AI systems, we must stay ahead of these threats,” said Senator Young. “The Advanced AI Security Readiness Act will ensure the intelligence professionals at NSA have the tools and direction needed to safeguard U.S. innovation and preserve America’s technology advantages.”

“AI increasingly powers our defense, intelligence, critical infrastructure, scientific innovation, and much of our economy. If it’s vulnerable, we’re vulnerable,” said Senator Kelly. “This bipartisan legislation gets the NSA prepared to spot attacks early and defend our country’s AI innovation from anyone trying to exploit it. As AI evolves, we need to stay ahead of the challenges it brings to keep Americans safe.”

Background:

The Advanced AI Security Readiness Act would direct the NSA’s AI Security Center to develop an AI Security Playbook that identifies potential vulnerabilities and threats and establishes security strategies and contingency plans for America’s advanced AI systems.

More specifically, the legislation would:

Safeguard American AI innovation from theft or sabotage by foreign actors, maintaining our national defense and technological leadership;

Strengthen our national security by developing strategies to identify, protect, detect, respond to, and recover from cyber threats from foreign adversaries; and

Protect U.S. AI ecosystems by directing the NSA to proactively identify vulnerabilities within AI technologies and the AI supply chain.

Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representatives Darin LaHood (R-IL-16), John Moolenaar (R-MI-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), and Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-introduces-veterans-sport-act-to-expand-va-coverage-for-recreational-prosthetics/,Sen. Banks Introduces Veterans SPORT Act to Expand VA Coverage for Recreational Prosthetics,2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Last week, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced the Veterans SPORT Act. This legislation would expand the VA medical benefits package to fully cover recreational prosthetics on a permanent basis. Senator Angus King (I-Maine.) is an original cosponsor of this bill.

Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “Our disabled veterans made tremendous sacrifices in defense of our nation, and they shouldn’t have to navigate VA red tape to get the medical equipment they need to lead active lifestyles. The Veterans SPORT Act would make sure their prosthetics are always covered.”

The bill is endorsed by the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), Wounded Warrior Project, Orthotic and Prosthetic Group of America, and National Association for the Advancement of Orthotics and Prosthetics.

Key Provisions of the Veterans SPORTAct are:

Add recreational prosthetics to the VA medical benefit package, ensuring they are always fully covered.

Full text of the bill can be found here

Background:

Veterans who play sports and exercise regularly report higher self-esteem, lower levels of depression and anxiety, and reduced stress. Physical activity is associated with reduced symptoms of PTSD. However, veterans with physical disabilities may need activity-specific prostheses and custom orthoses to participate in sports, and these devices are expensive. Current law restricts the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from providing recreational prosthetics unless they are considered a “direct and active component” of medical treatment. As a result, prosthetics that support exercise beyond a prescribed rehabilitation plan are typically not covered.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-urges-army-to-approve-renovations-to-the-arlington-chaplains-memorials-to-honor-all-fallen-military-chaplains/,Sen. Banks Urges Army to Approve Renovations to the Arlington Chaplains Memorials to Honor All Fallen Military Chaplains,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Last week, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) sent a letter to Secretary of the Army Daniel Driscoll urging the Department of the Army to approve updates to the Protestant and Catholic chaplains memorials on Arlington National Cemetery’s Chaplains Hill. These updates would ensure that fallen chaplains are honored for their service and sacrifice.

Chris Motz, Senior Counsel for First Liberty Institute: “Our military chaplains may not carry weapons, but they serve and sacrifice nonetheless. And for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, memorializing them on Arlington National Cemetery’s hallowed ground is the very least we can do. We are grateful for Senator Banks’ leadership on this issue.”

Dan Wiley, National Commander of The American Legion: “On behalf of our 1.5 million members, The American Legion strongly urges the immediate addition of the names of 84 war-time Chaplains killed in action to the Chaplains Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery. The delay of these additions fails to honor the sacrifices of fallen chaplains who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation. The American Legion remains committed to advocating for proper recognition of our nations heroes and we thank Senator Banks for his work on this issue.”

In part, the letter reads:

“Military chaplains have served America’s armed forces in the barracks and on the battlefield for over 250 years. They offer strength, comfort, and hope for the men and women putting their lives on the line to defend our nation. Their steadfast devotion has supported our servicemembers in living their faith even in the most dangerous circumstances.

I know this administration strongly supports religious liberty and recognizes the vital work of military chaplains. President Trump established the White House Faith Office to expand partnerships with religious organizations and ensure all executive agencies defend the free exercise of religion. Under Secretary Hegseth’s leadership, the Department of War has reaffirmed its commitment to religious expression through clearer guidance for commanders.”

Click here to see the full letter or see text below:

Dear Secretary Driscoll:

I encourage you to approve the updating of the Protestant and Catholic chaplains memorials on Arlington National Cemetery’s Chaplains Hill. As you know, Congress authorized the National Conference on Ministry to the Armed Forces (NCMAF) to do so in the fiscal year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) at no cost to the government, subject to the Secretary of the Army’s approval. My understanding is NCMAF is ready and willing to add names to the monuments and has raised the necessary funding to do so.

Chaplains Hill, in Section 2 of Arlington National Cemetery, contains four memorials inscribed with the names of military chaplains who died in service. The memorials are lasting tributes honoring their legacy. While the World War I and Jewish chaplains monuments are up to date, the Catholic and Protestant chaplains monuments are incomplete. Specifically, the Protestant chaplains memorial has not been updated since its dedication in 1981 and only includes the names of chaplains who served during World War I and World War II. That means eligible Protestant chaplains who served in Korea, Vietnam, the Global War on Terrorism and other wars have not been recognized. Additionally, the Catholic chaplains memorial is missing the name of one eligible Catholic priest, who died in service from injuries suffered during the Iraq War. The Office of the Chief of Chaplains in each service branch has affirmed the names of the chaplains who are eligible for inclusion, as the law requires.

Military chaplains have served America’s armed forces in the barracks and on the battlefield for over 250 years. They offer strength, comfort, and hope for the men and women putting their lives on the line to defend our nation. Their steadfast devotion has supported our servicemembers in living their faith even in the most dangerous circumstances.

I know this administration strongly supports religious liberty and recognizes the vital work of military chaplains. President Trump established the White House Faith Office to expand partnerships with religious organizations and ensure all executive agencies defend the free exercise of religion. Under Secretary Hegseth’s leadership, the Department of War has reaffirmed its commitment to religious expression through clearer guidance for commanders.

It is time to honor every fallen chaplain. I urge you to move forward with renovating the Chaplains Hill monuments so they are all remembered with the dignity and gratitude they deserve.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wtas-sen-banks-hosts-4th-annual-northeast-indiana-defense-summit-featuring-secretary-of-war-hegseth/,WTAS: Sen. Banks Hosts 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit Featuring Secretary of War Hegseth,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Fort Wayne, Ind. – This week, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) hosted the 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit Featuring Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Secretary of the Navy John Phelan, and defense industry leaders from across Indiana.

MEDIA ROUNDUP:

IndyStar: ‘Woke and Weak’: Secretary of War Pete Hegseth Speaks at Jim Banks’ Indiana Defense Summit

“Hegseth’s visit to Fort Wayne comes as Indiana looks to expand its defense industry. Indiana is home to the third largest naval base in the world in Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane and Fort Wayne’s own L3Harris Technologies is helping the Department of War build a missile defense system called the ‘Golden Dome.’”

The Journal Gazette: US Secretary of the Navy: Indiana will provide industry to retool US Navy

“U.S. Secretary of the Navy John Phelan said Wednesday that Indiana will be essential to modernizing the military branch.”

“Phelan told Indiana defense industry leaders that they are key to retooling the fleet”

“‘America’s Navy doesn’t start at sea,’ he said. ‘It starts here where you make things.’”

“The Navy is investing in every level of manufacturing, Phelan said, to ensure Marines and sailors are the safest and most prepared they can be when conflict arises. Indiana will be a key factor in that.”

“‘That’s where manufacturing powerhouses like Indiana come in,’ he said. ‘You’re the quiet giants of America’s advanced industrial pace. Your machine shops, foundries and innovation hubs produce the materials and components that make our submarines silent, our ships survivable and our sailors and marines unstoppable.’”

WANE: Secretary of War Pete Hegseth addresses defense summit in Fort Wayne

“Secretary of the Navy John Phelan called Indiana the ‘quiet giant’ of the defense industryand said the future depended on people who manufacture things, imploring Indiana companies to continue growing both their workforce and capacity.”

12 WBOY: Northeast Indiana Emerges as Nexus of America’s Defense Industry

“As national defense leaders, policymakers, and industry executives convene in Fort Wayne for the 4th Annual Defense Summit, Northeast Indiana is reaffirming its role as one of the center of innovation and production in America’s defense ecosystem.”

“Home to major defense and aerospace employers including L3Harris, BAE Systems, Raytheon, and Ultra Electronics, Northeast Indiana companies are at the forefront of designing and producing the advanced technologies that keep America safe—ranging from encrypted radios and tactical vehicles to advanced sensors, command and control systems, and components for space and missile defense.”

“Since 2020, businesses in the region have been awarded nearly $2.5 billion in Department of Defense contracts, reflecting the federal government’s growing confidence in the region’s ability to deliver critical capabilities faster and more efficiently than anywhere else in the country.”

“With more than 95,000 skilled manufacturing workers and 4,500 engineers, Northeast Indiana delivers high-quality innovation at lower cost to taxpayers. The region also benefits from proximity to six of the nation’s top 15 engineering schools—within 225 miles—and graduates more than 10,000 students annually through the Northeast Indiana Colleges and Universities Network, ensuring a robust pipeline of defense and aerospace talent.”

WBOI: SecDef visits Fort Wayne to address local defense Contractors

“Fort Wayne has a long history of manufacturing and innovation in the defense industry, from companies such as BAE Systems to L3Harris, which is involved in Trump’s missile shield program.”

“Banks spoke of the region’s deep ties to the defense industry—including L3Harris, which is involved in Trump’s space-based missile defense system. Other companies, such as Ultra Maritime, in Columbia City, provide technology to the U.S. Navy.”

“Banks recognized a number of leaders in the defense industry in his opening remarks, andpredicted Indiana would have a growing role to play in the ‘modernization’ of the U.S. military.”

WOWO: Hegseth: Warrior Ethos, Innovation, Readiness Key to U.S. Defense

“Highlighting Indiana’s critical role, Hegseth pointed to NSA Crane, the nation’s third-largest naval installation, as a hub for innovation in drone warfare, hypersonics, and microelectronics. ‘Crane embodies the warrior ethos committed to unwavering dedication and readiness in the face of any challenge,’ he said.”

“Hegseth praised Senator Banks for his support, saying, ‘You learn real quick in Washington who your real friends are…Senator Banks is an incredible ally who we know we can call when tough decisions have to be made.’”

The summit focused on strengthening America’s defense industrial base, supporting warfighters, and ensuring the United States remains the strongest military power in the world.

21ALIVE NEWS: Hegseth addresses Northeast Indiana defense contractors about military prioirites

“Northeast Indiana is home to major national security manufacturers including L3Harris, Raytheon and BAE Systems.”

“Hegseth mentioned new initiatives that could affect local defense contractors. ‘We are only going to do business with industry partners that share our priority on speed and volume above all else. We are willing to surge American made, American made, manufacturing at the speed of ingenuity to deliver rapidly and reliably for our war fighters,’ he said.”

“Banks said the visit was beneficial for the state. ‘For the Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to come and learn more about what we’re already doing in Fort Wayne and Indiana, it’s really good for our state to create more jobs and do even more on the defense front,’ Banks said.”

WIBC: War and Navy Secretaries Praise Indiana Defense Role

“President Trump is rebuilding and remaking the U.S. military into the world’s strongest fighting force,” Banks said. ‘Secretary of War Hegseth is leading the effort daily to achieve peace through strength.’”

Hegseth added that President Trump has injected “good ol’ fashioned Indiana common sense” back to the Pentagon’s approach.”

“Secretary Phelan focused on the urgency of naval readiness, describing the state as the ‘quiet giant’ of the defense industry. He warned that the world demands a “combat credible naval force,” especially as ‘China’s unprecedented military buildup’ poses a direct threat.”

“[Sec. Phelan] implored Indiana manufactures to continue growing their workforce and capacity, saying that the state is a ‘key engine room’ for advanced systems used by the Navy, including at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane, which is in Crane, Indiana.”

Daily Caller: Sen. Banks Pins Long-Deserved Purple Heart on Iraq Veteran After Nearly Two Decades

“Republican Indiana Sen. Jim Banks presented the Purple Heart to former Army National Guard Specialist Robert Drudy on Tuesday, almost 20 years after his injury in the line of duty.”

“Banks presented him the award alongside Fort Wayne, Ind. Mayor Sharon Tucker on Veterans Day at the fourth annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit.”

“From time to time, we hear about mistakes that the military has made, recognitions that weren’t properly given, and we do everything that we can on team Banks to make sure that we right those wrongs and make up for it,” Banks said in his remarks. “I couldn’t be prouder that today we get to provide this Purple Heart to Fort Wayne resident and former Army Specialist Robert Drudy.”

WANE: Tucker, Banks award veteran with Purple Heart to kickoff Northeast Indiana Defense Summit, celebrate Veterans Day

The fourth annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit kicked off in Fort Wayne, not with one of its premier speakers like President Trump’s Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, but with a little-known local man, crowned as a hero.

21ALIVE NEWS: Army Veteran awarded Purple Heart during Northeast Indiana Defense Summit

An Army veteran was presented with a Purple Heart during the Northeast Indiana Defense Summit on Tuesday.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) and Fort Wayne Mayor Sharon Tucker presented him with the award. Banks said it was “an incredible honor” to present Drudy with the award.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/secretary-of-the-navy-john-phelan-speaks-at-the-4th-annual-northeast-indiana-defense-summit/,Secretary of the Navy John Phelan Speaks at the 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Fort Wayne, IN – Today, Secretary of the Navy John Phelan addressed the 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit hosted by Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.). Secretary Phelan underscored Indiana’s vital role in rebuilding America’s naval strength through modernization, workforce development, and manufacturing readiness.

Click the image above to view Secretary Phelan’s full Address or watch it here (1:13:00 – 1:58:25)

Key Remarks:

Secretary Phelan: “We are rebuilding the fleet because the threat environment demands it. We are living through one of the most dangerous strategic environments in modern history. Warfare is being reshaped in real-time by drones, AI, autonomy, machine learning, and rapid iteration. A time where warfighters, coders, and manufacturers adapt capabilities midfight – and in some cases midday – to change the enemy’s calculus. The ability to adapt and iterate is no longer a competitive edge. It’s a key determinate of victory.”

Secretary Phelan: “We face a world characterized by China’s unprecedented military buildup and the direct threat it poses to the United States and its allies.”

Secretary Phelan: “This is a world that demands a combat credible naval force. Ready to fight, ready to win, anytime, anywhere, against any adversary.”

Secretary Phelan: “For too long, our shipbuilding enterprise has been slowed by red tape, supply chain fragility and a shrinking workforce…that era is ending…[President Trump] armed us with the authorities, resources, and urgency to modernize the fleet.”

Secretary Phelan: “Shipbuilding and readiness remain the department and my top priorities. We are driving shipbuilding initiatives to increase tonnage, strengthen allied production lines, and attack the longstanding chokepoints that have dragged our enterprise behind the power curve. We’re strengthening our shipyards across the country, but also the thousands of suppliers in states like Indiana who make the parts, forge the steel, and design the systems that keep the fleet alive. Every weld, every bolt, every circuit board built here contributes to sailors and marines’ safety halfway around the world.”

Secretary Phelan: “The Navy’s modernization effort isn’t just about ships, it’s about ensuring that when conflict comes – and history tells us it always does – we are ready on Day 1…That’s where manufacturing powerhouses like Indiana come in. You’re the quiet giants of America’s defense industrial base. Your machine shops, foundries, and innovation hubs, produce the materials and components that make our submarines silent, our ships survivable, and our sailors and marines unstoppable. This state turns university pipelines and veteran talent into high-tech power systems and mission components at scale. Indiana isn’t just America’s crossroads, it’s one of our key engine rooms. Nowhere is that clearer than Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane.100 square miles, the third largest naval installation by area, and a critical strategic center for the Department of Navy, Crane drives expeditionary warfare, electronic warfare, hypersonics, and advanced sensing. It’s a crown jewel for microelectronics and trusted hardware, and a crucial pillar of the Navy’s leg of the nuclear triad.”

Secretary Phelan: “Rebuilding America’s Navy is not a Navy project, it’s a national imperative. Together, we will prove that the might of our fleet is built on the might of our people. That freedom of the seas depends on the freedom to build. And when America decides to lead, no rival on earth can match our ingenuity or will.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/secretary-of-war-pete-hegseth-addresses-the-4th-annual-northeast-indiana-defense-summit/,Secretary of War Pete Hegseth Addresses the 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Fort Wayne, IN – Today, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth addressed the 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit hosted by Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.). Secretary Hegseth outlined how we will rebuild America’s Arsenal of Freedom by restoring the warrior ethos, rebuilding the military, and reestablishing deterrence. Secretary Hegseth highlighted Indiana’s critical role in revitalizing the defense industrial base to achieve this mission.

Click the image above to view Secretary Hegseth’s full address or watch it here (26:12 – 1:00:00)

Key Remarks:

Secretary Hegseth: If you’re putting America First, and the roadmap is peace through strength, the third ingredient President Trump has injected is good old fashioned Indiana common sense. Common sense is back at the White House, and it’s back at the Pentagon. Common sense means putting warfighting, lethality as the Senator mentioned, training, discipline, accountability, readiness at the forefront of everything we do at the Department of War.

Secretary Hegseth: As the President points out, and he’s right, we have the strongest, most capable, most lethal military in the world, full stop. No one can touch us. But if we’re going to maintain that, and put the best weapons, ships, and aircrafts in the hands of our men and women, we’ve got a lot of work to do here in Indiana and across the country to get things on time and at scale.

Secretary Hegseth: When I think of rebuilding the military, we think of places like NSA Crane right here in Indiana, the 3rd largest naval installation in the world. I can’t lie, the first time I met with Senator Banks, I said ‘wait, the third largest naval installation in the world is in Indiana? Okay,’ but then when you add it all up, look at the industry and look at the history, it all makes sense. Then you look at the capability of what’s produced here, Crane embodies the warrior ethos committed to unwavering dedication and readiness in the face of any challenge. Over time, it’s become a go to on drone warfare, hypersonics, and microelectronics, rapidly transitioning these innovations to the warfighter. We’re going to need more places like Crane, and we’re going to need them quickly.

Secretary Hegseth: For far too long, our department has been bogged down by burdensome and inefficient processes, paralyzed by impossible risk thresholds and requirements, and distracted by agendas that have nothing to do with warfighting. Every dollar squandered on redundancy, bureaucracy, and waste is a dollar that could be used for something meaningful.

Secretary Hegseth: The objective is rebuilding the arsenal of freedom. American industry and its innovative spirit are begging to be unleashed to solve our most complex and dangerous warfighting problems.

Secretary Hegseth: After decades of securing other people’s borders halfway across the world, we’re finally securing our own border…We’re also taking the fight on the deterrence front to the cartels. My advice to foreign terrorist organizations: Do Not Get in A Boat. If you’re trafficking drugs to poison the American People and we know you’re from a designated terrorist organization, you’re a foreign terrorist and trafficker, we will find you and we will kill you.

Secretary Hegseth: We’re reestablishing deterrence, as the Senator mentioned, in the Indo-Pacific and around the world…we are deterring China’s influence around the world.

Secretary Hegseth: We’re restoring the warrior ethos, rebuilding our military, reestablishing deterrence, and we have a President of the United States who has the backs of our warfighters.

Secretary Hegseth: In this new era for the defense industrial base, we’re going to take risks, we’re going to optimize for speed, we’re going to compete, and we’re going to scale.

Secretary Hegseth: What you have in Indiana, in the good Senator. Senator Banks is an incredible ally who we know we can call when tough decisions have to be made or he has to stand there shoulder-to-shoulder with us or help explain the reforms that we’re undertaking. It’s critical. You learn real quick in Washington who your real friends are, who will actually go to bat, and who’s core is grounded in what needs to be done in that moment to advance America First and peace through strength. Senator Banks, I want to thank you for being that ally to us at the Department of War from Day 1.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-resolution-honoring-the-ss-edmund-fitzgerald-passes-the-senate/,Young Resolution Honoring the SS Edmund Fitzgerald Passes the Senate,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – On the 50th anniversary of the loss of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, the United States Senate passed a resolution – cosponsored by U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) – recognizing the 29 crew members who died during the shipwreck, which occurred during one of the worst storms ever recorded on the Great Lakes.

“Fifty years ago, the SS Edmund Fitzgerald sank in the Great Lakes, tragically ending the lives of all onboard. Our resolution honors those who were tragically lost and reaffirms our commitment to the safety of America’s maritime workforce,” said Senator Young.

Young introduced the resolution with Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-votes-for-senate-bill-to-end-federal-government-shutdown/,Young Votes for Senate Bill to End Federal Government Shutdown,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) issued the following statement after voting for legislation that would end the current federal government shutdown:

“Over the past 40 days, I have said over and over again that Hoosiers didn’t send me to Congress to shut down the government. I am frustrated that this shutdown has dragged on this long and negatively affected our country in so many ways. I am grateful for all of the dedicated federal workers, such as our service members and air traffic controllers, who continued to work throughout the shutdown. I urge my colleagues in the House to pass this bill and get it to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law. It’s time to get back to work on all of the important issues facing our country.”

The bill includes a continuing resolution to reopen the federal government until January 30, 2026, along with full-year appropriations bill for Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, and the Legislative Branch. The temporary stopgap will allow Congress to continue working toward full-year bills for the remaining federal agencies.

The legislation passed the Senate 60 to 40 and now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. If the legislation passes the House, it would be sent to the President’s desk to be signed into law. Over the past six weeks, Young voted 15 times for a clean bill that would fund and reopen the government, but Senate Democrats blocked the first 14 attempts.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-introduces-gain-ai-act/,Senator Banks Introduces GAIN AI Act,2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced the GAIN AI Act.

This legislation creates an America-First right of first refusal to ensure American customers are served by our cutting-edge technology before foreign adversaries. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Dave McCormick (R-Pa.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) are original cosponsors of the bill.

Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “The GAIN AI Act makes sure we use American-made technology to strengthen our own economy and security before sending it to adversaries overseas.”

Key Provisions of the GAIN AI Act are:

Prevent the export of advanced artificial intelligence chips to arms embargoed countries if there is unmet demand from American companies.

Strengthen national security and technological competitiveness by ensuring U.S. companies have a “right of first refusal” to acquire these chips.

Promotes U.S. technology dominance by allowing trusted American companies (such as large cloud service providers and chip operators) to move or operate advanced AI chips abroad without triggering full export control licensing, as long as they meet stringent security and ownership criteria.

Full text of the bill can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-column-its-time-to-make-american-ships-again/,YOUNG COLUMN: It’s Time to Make American Ships Again,2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"The following column by U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) was published in The Ripon Forum’s Veterans Day Edition 2025.

America’s rise from 13 colonies to the most powerful nation on Earth was due, in large measure, to our dominance at sea. Our maritime power came not only from having a powerful Navy, but also from possessing a strong and capable commercial fleet.

From our founding, America’s merchant ships carried raw materials and goods around the globe, generating great wealth for our nation and establishing secure supply chains. Today, an overwhelming amount of the goods that fuel our economy still arrive by sea. However, unlike the early days of our nation, hardly any of these goods are traveling on American ships. More and more, they are traveling on ships built, and increasingly registered, in China.

This change is the result of decades of neglect. Over time, the U.S. stopped prioritizing the importance of shipbuilding to our economic and national security and failed to invest in our maritime industry. As a result, this sector eroded, shipyards were abandoned, the shipping workforce was depleted, and America’s commercial fleet is down to a mere 80 vessels.

Meanwhile, across the Pacific, China charted a different course. Through strategic government investment — and illegal market manipulation — China built the largest commercial fleet in the world: approximately 5,500 oceangoing vessels.

In a world without security threats — where we could trust China and its ambitions this wouldn’t necessarily be cause for concern. But that’s not the world we live in. China will stop at nothing to exploit America’s security vulnerabilities, undermine our relationships with trusted allies, and bully developing nations for its own gain. The supply chain interruptions we experienced during COVID would pale in comparison to a Chinese boycott of our ports.

More alarmingly, in time of war, America lacks sufficient shipyard and industrial capacity to repair or build new warships. China understands this, which undermines our military’s objective to deter future conflict.

It’s time to reverse course, return to our roots, and make American ships again.

To begin this rebuilding effort, I introduced the SHIPS for America Act with Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ). This landmark legislation will revitalize U.S. shipbuilding, rebuild America’s shipyard industrial base, support nationwide workforce development in this industry, and ensure we have the fleet we need to reclaim maritime dominance. Our bill is needed to bolster our supply chains, strengthen our warfighting capabilities, and allow us to keep pace with China.

We are fortunate to have a President who understands the urgent need to address our rusted reality. Earlier this year, President Trump signed an executive order titled “Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance.” The SHIPS Act, which mirrors multiple aspects of the President’s executive order, would provide the funding and authorities to revitalize the maritime industry, while also putting up barriers against China’s continued efforts to dismantle our shipping economy.

Together, the SHIPS Act and the President’s executive order will lead to a shipbuilding revival across the country, and my home state is ready play a key role.

Along the Ohio River, southern Indiana communities have a long history of shipbuilding success. For years, Hoosiers working at the shipyards built commercial ships, including steamboats, barges, and towboats. When World War II broke out, these shipyards joined the war effort and produced the Navy’s oceangoing ships at record-breaking levels. But when the war ended, America stopped producing ships and quickly became outpaced by foreign competition.

Indiana’s once thriving shipyards are now mainly closed, except for Corn Island in southern Indiana along the Ohio River.

I recently toured Corn Island Shipyard to learn more about its operations, Hoosier workforce, and manufacturing of custom barges. The passage of the SHIPS Act would increase opportunities for little known shipyards like Corn Island across the nation.

Hoosier steel manufacturers could benefit from the increased need for steel to build these new ships. Small component manufacturers across the state would likely see additional demand.

Since the bill’s introduction, numerous Hoosier small businesses have shared how the SHIPS Act could lead to more growth or opportunities for their workers.

Further, as one of the top agriculture states, Indiana relies heavily on exports. If our economy depends on goods carried aboard Chinese-flagged ships, our supply chain is at the mercy of China. But, if we increase our own shipping capabilities, we will have more American ships exporting American goods. This will increase confidence and drive down costs for both our farmers and consumers.

This is the promise of the shipbuilding revival – revitalized shipyards, more good- paying American jobs, security from economic coercion, and enhanced naval readiness for a potential conflict with our greatest adversary.

It’s time to Make American Ships Again.

Todd Young is the senior U.S. Senator for Indiana. He is a Naval Academy grad and former Marine. He serves on the U.S. Senate Committees on Finance; Commerce, Science & Transportation; Small Business and Entrepreneurship; and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-statement-on-war-powers-resolution/,Young Statement on War Powers Resolution,2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) released the following statement regarding today’s Senate vote on the Caribbean War Powers Resolution:

“Since the last Senate vote on this issue, I’ve received multiple briefings from the Administration and consulted with outside experts about the legality of recent strikes in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific. I am grateful to senior Administration officials for those briefings. Based on the information I have received, I have a greater appreciation for the legal rationale behind our service members executing these strikes, and I do not believe this resolution is necessary or appropriate at this time.

“However, my vote today is not an endorsement of the Administration’s current course in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific. As a matter of policy, I am troubled by many aspects and assumptions of this operation and believe it is at odds with the majority of Americans who want the U.S. military less entangled in international conflicts.

“The strategic objective of militarizing a ‘War on Drugs’ is unclear at best and, while not currently desired or contemplated, these operations could conceivably lead to direct military conflict with Venezuela or even operations inside the United States. While no one has declared war on Venezuela, the creeping expansion of executive war-making—under presidents of both parties—without congressional input or oversight is dangerous. Additionally, consultation and a decision by Congress enables an open, democratic assessment of how a president envisions connecting the means of military action to a clear, strategic outcome that is in the national interest, not to grandstand or create 535 commanders-in-chief, but rather to monitor and review the activities of the executive so we don’t repeat the foreign policy mistakes of this century. The Constitution is clear: Congress, not the President, holds the power to declare war, not as a constitutional nicety, but rather as a reflection of the national will.

“The American people deserve a more transparent strategy – not ad hoc military maneuvers conducted without a clearly-defined objective. The Administration must keep the people’s representatives better informed if and before this situation escalates in any way.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/secretary-of-war-pete-hegseth-to-headline-4th-annual-northeast-indiana-defense-summit/,Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to Headline 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit,2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) announced that United States Secretary of War Pete Hegseth will headline the 4th annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit in Fort Wayne on November 12th.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “I am honored to host Secretary Hegseth at our 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit. Secretary Hegseth recognizes the vital role Hoosiers play in strengthening America’s national security and military readiness. His leadership and commitment to our armed forces will help ensure Indiana remains a cornerstone of our nation’s defense industry.”

Media advisory with further details to follow.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-demands-action-to-end-unlawful-opt-program-protect-american-workers/,"Sen. Banks Demands Action to End Unlawful OPT Program, Protect American Workers",2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Yesterday, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) sent a letter to White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem urging them to take action to end the unlawful Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. The letter highlights how the OPT program—created without congressional authorization—has displaced American workers, particularly in STEM fields, by incentivizing employers to hire foreign labor instead of U.S. graduates.

In part, the letter reads:

“The OPT system incentivizes employers to pass over American graduates and hire foreign guest workers, especially in STEM fields—and that’s exactly what has happened. Today, one-third of computer science graduates and half of computer programming graduates are unemployed six months after graduation. Many large tech companies complain about a shortage of workers, but that could not be further from the truth. In 2023, American colleges graduated 134,000 American citizens or green card holders with computer science degrees. That same year, the federal government handed out work permits to 110,000 foreign guest workers in computer occupations.”

Read more about the letter here.

Read below or see the full text here.

Dear Mr. Miller and Secretary Noem:

I write to request that you take steps to end the unlawful Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. This program was created by bureaucrats to evade immigration limits set by law, and it offers employers a tax break to replace American workers with foreign labor.

OPT authorizes international students to work in the United States for up to one year after graduation for each degree they receive from an institution of higher education. STEM graduates are authorized to work in the U.S. for up to three years. The program is not authorized by Congress. It was established and has been maintained entirely by Deep State bureaucrats.

Despite OPT’s lack of political legitimacy, it has dramatically reshaped America’s foreign guest worker program. Nearly 500,000 foreign workers hold OPT status and most of them work in STEM fields. More than one-third of international students in the United States have work authorization, primarily through OPT.

There are nearly as many OPT holders as there are H-1B holders, yet OPT lacks even the minimal safeguards of the H-1B program. OPT permits are completely uncapped, lack a minimum wage floor, and come with no requirement that employers attempt to fill positions with American workers before hiring foreign workers. Employers actually get a 15% discount for hiring an OPT holder, as both employers and OPT workers are generally exempt from Social Security and Medicare taxes.

The OPT system incentivizes employers to pass over American graduates and hire foreign guest workers, especially in STEM fields—and that’s exactly what has happened. Today, one-third of computer science graduates and half of computer programming graduates are unemployed six months after graduation. Many large tech companies complain about a shortage of workers, but that could not be further from the truth. In 2023, American colleges graduated 134,000 American citizens or green card holders with computer science degrees. That same year, the federal government handed out work permits to 110,000 foreign guest workers in computer occupations.

Moreover, without vetting safeguards, OPT poses national security risks. One out of four OPT holders come from the People’s Republic of China. At Columbia University, where radicalism has become a public safety risk, nearly twenty percent of the student body holds an OPT permit. And when the Trump administration reviewed the visas of students involved in pro-Palestine protests or with criminal histories, it found it necessary to terminate OPT permits from multiple universities.

I have introduced legislation to eliminate OPT so that more American students can graduate with dignity and enter the workforce with good-paying jobs, and I am very grateful for President Trump’s efforts to reform the H-1B program.

But regulators created OPT, so regulators can end it, too. If a complete reversal of OPT is not possible, the program should at the very least be capped and limited to only the best and brightest students, with wage requirements that match the salaries of the best and brightest American tech graduates. A wage floor between $90,000-$115,000, forexample, would match the mean salary for computer and information sciences graduates in the class of 2023. Corporations should also be required to follow a set procedure for attempting to hire American graduates before hiring an OPT worker and should pay the same Medicare and Social Security taxes on those workers that they pay for their other employees.

Finally, OPT applicants should be vetted for their commitment to the nation’s founding principles and the American way of life, and no permits should be given to students from foreign adversaries.

Building greater opportunity for American graduates requires ending programs that encourage employers to displace talented American workers and seek foreign labor instead. That is why I urge you to end the unlawful OPT program, or reform and limit the program to ensure that employers put American workers first. Our graduates, and the American people, deserve nothing less.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and for your efforts to put America first.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-honors-veteran-small-business-owners/,Young Honors Veteran Small Business Owners,2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Last night, the United States Senate unanimously passed a resolution led by U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) designating November 3-7, 2025, as National Veterans Small Business Week.

“I’m glad to be part of this resolution honoring our veterans and their businesses in our communities. This is one small way we can continue to express our gratitude for the sacrifices these Americans made for our country,” said Senator Young.

Earlier this week, Young visited Brew Link Brewing, a veteran-run business in Indianapolis.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/jim-banks-named-americas-toughest-senator-on-immigration/,Jim Banks Named America’s Toughest Senator on Immigration,2025-11-04,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Immigration Accountability Project Action awarded Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) as the #1 U.S. Senator for immigration.

IAP Action calculated the rankings based on the immigration-related bills introduced, cosponsored, and supported by members of Congress. Eligible legislation includes measures addressing legal immigration, nonimmigrant visa programs, border security, interior enforcement, and efforts to combat illegal immigration.

Senator Banks earned the top ranking among all U.S. Senators for the 119th Congress.

Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “Hoosiers sent me to the Senate to help President Trump secure the border and put America first. I’m honored to get this recognition and I’ll keep fighting every day to keep our country safe and strong.”

Senator Banks’ Key Immigration Legislative Items here:

Visa Overstay Penalties Act of 2025

Border Security is National Security Act

Putting American Students First Act

End Unaccountable Amnesty Act

Nuclear Family Priority Act

American Tech Workforce Act of 2025

Read more about it here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-introduces-legislation-to-provide-transparency-to-american-investors/,Senator Banks Introduces Legislation to Provide Transparency to American Investors,2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Yesterday, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced the Providing Complete Information to Retirement Investors Act. This bill would require retirement plans to help workers better understand their investment options by clearly explaining the difference between professionally managed funds and self-directed investments. Additionally, it would explain the risks to participants when they move money into non-fiduciary options. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.) is an original cosponsor of this bill.

Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “Americans work hard for their retirement, and their money should be working for them, not to fund the Left’s woke agenda. This bill makes sure retirees know exactly where their savings are going so they can invest with confidence and common sense.”

Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.): “Fiduciaries’ sole responsibility is to prioritize what is best for the workers’ hard-earned savings. These pro-worker, pro-family bills protect millions of Americans’ retirement savings from political ideology.”

Key Provisions of the Providing Complete Information to Retirement Investors Act are:

Requires employer-sponsored defined contribution plans to explain to participants the difference between choosing investments selected by Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) fiduciaries and those self-selected through a brokerage window.

Requires ERISA-governed plans to provide a notice to investors each time they allocate money into or out of a brokerage window that such investments were not selected by a fiduciary and may result in lower returns.

Full text of the bill can be found here.

Background:

In recent years, left-wing investment firms have mismanaged the hard-earned retirement savings of millions of Americans through so-called “Environmental, Social, Governance” (ESG) plans. ESG funds intentionally prioritize left-wing social priorities over business fundamentals when they select investments. Several academic studies have found that ESG funds result in lower returns for investors. Some ESG funds have sought greater business by soliciting 401(k) investors to self-direct their retirement savings through a “brokerage window.” This poses increased risk for investors, as investment plans selected through a brokerage window do not have a fiduciary responsibility to look out for the investor’s best interests.

This bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives in September 2023 as part of the Roll Back ESG To Increase Retirement Earnings Act.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-colleagues-statement-on-violence-in-sudan/,"Young, Colleagues Statement on Violence in Sudan",2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) released the following statement on the violence in Sudan:

“We are horrified by the ongoing civil war in Sudan, and the genocide in Darfur perpetuated by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias. The RSF’s long-predicted ethnically targeted assault on the civilian population of El-Fasher makes clear that the United States must consider the designation of the RSF as a potential Foreign Terrorist Organization or Specially Designated Global Terrorist organization, while establishing clear authorizations and mechanisms for the continued delivery of humanitarian aid.

“Now in its third year, Sudan’s civil war has devastated the country, shattered Sudanese society, and destabilized the region. Both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have committed atrocities against civilians and pursued a zero-sum war at any cost. Foreign backers of the RSF and SAF–including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Russia, Iran, China and governments in the immediate region–have fueled and profited from the conflict and legitimized the monsters destroying Sudan.

“This war poses grave risk to the United States. Sudan’s location on the Red Sea is vital for global trade and energy flows. The country’s history as a haven for terrorists like Osama Bin Laden, its facilitation of vast illicit flow of arms and gold, and the movement of fighters and civilians across its borders threaten U.S. national security and economic stability. Achieving a sustainable ceasefire, ensuring unhindered humanitarian access, and securing safe corridors for civilians across Sudan is paramount. The warring parties and their foreign backers must work with the United States and its partners to end this catastrophic war immediately.

“The U.S.-led “Quad” diplomacy (with Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE) is an important step that requires all parties to engage in good faith negotiations. Ensuring meaningful participation by Sudanese civilians will strengthen future efforts and give legitimacy to any lasting peace.”

Background

The civil war in Sudan, which erupted on April 15, 2023, has plunged the country into one of the world’s worst and most underreported humanitarian crises.

The RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (“Hemedti”), is carrying out genocide and other mass atrocities against non-Arab communities and perceived opponents—continuing the same brutality they inflicted as the Janjaweed during the first Darfur genocide in 2003. The SAF and allied militias—including entrenched Islamist elements—have likewise targeted civilians through starvation, chemical attacks, and other atrocities, further destabilizing the region.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-column-what-is-the-biggest-fix-the-u-s-needs-when-it-comes-to-housing-policy/,YOUNG COLUMN: What is the biggest fix the U.S. needs when it comes to housing policy?,2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"The following column by U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) was published by NOTUS on October 31, 2025.

Increase available housing by cutting regulations.

Sen. Todd Young (R-IN)

U.S. Senate

Our country needs to increase the supply of available housing for Americans of all income levels.

Yet, too often, our communities build paper walls of regulation that prevent the construction of new homes. These burdensome local zoning and land use policies drive up the cost of housing and stifle the mobility of families and workers.

Local municipalities ultimately have the right to set housing policy, but taxpayers deserve more information on how these policies affect them.

I’ve introduced the Identifying Regulatory Barriers to Housing Supply Act to encourage local communities to cut burdensome regulations, promote more housing options and bring a new level of transparency to the community development process.

The legislation would require recipients of federal Community Development Block Grant dollars to report on whether they have already adopted less burdensome land use policies or submit a plan for implementing these policies. It conditions federal funds on transparency regarding the rationale for choosing whether to remove or reform harmful land use regulations.

By encouraging more transparency from cities, towns and rural areas — without encroaching on the rights of states and localities — this bill will better ensure communities do their part to increase housing supply and make housing more affordable.

Republican Sen. Todd Young represents Indiana in the U.S. Senate.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-column-republican-senator-u-s-must-outcompete-china-on-biotechnology/,YOUNG COLUMN: Republican Senator: U.S. Must Outcompete China on Biotechnology,2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"The following column by U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) and John F. Crowley was published by Newsweek on October 30, 2025.

By Sen. Todd Young and John F. Crowley

Picture a world where most life-saving medicines are discovered not in the United States, but in Beijing and Shanghai. Imagine a time when the most advanced biotechnologies—therapies that cure cancer and Alzheimer’s, protect us from pandemics and fuel our economy—are controlled not by America, but by our chief global adversary. That is the future we risk drifting into soon if we do not act now to secure and advance American dominance in biotechnology.

Today, America still leads the world in biotechnology. But China is fast closing the gap and is close to overtaking us. Chinese dominance in biotechnology would have dire, even existential, consequences for our economy and our national security. It would leave Americans dependent on an authoritarian rival for critical medicines, giving China and its allies tremendous global influence.

This is no ordinary competition. The biotech race is the defining technological contest of the 21st century—just as the Space Race defined the 20th. But this time, there may be no dramatic “Sputnik moment” to jolt us into action.

And in a century defined by constantly evolving technology, if we lose our lead, we may never get it back. As the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology, which Senator Young chairs, warned earlier this year, if China overtakes us, “no matter how fast we run, we will never catch up.”

The choice before us is stark. Either we act with urgency and vision, or we resign ourselves to losing the industry that will define this century.

For more than a decade, Beijing has poured enormous resources into biotech research and development in a deliberate bid for global dominance. That bet is paying off. Between 2016 and today, the number of Chinese biotech firms has gone from about 100 to over 3,000. The value of Chinese biotech firms has grown more than a hundredfold during this period. Chinese firms now launch more than a quarter of global clinical trials, up from just 3 percent in 2013. China’s share of the global pharmaceutical pipeline has grown tenfold in the same period, while America’s has declined. Beijing already leads in some research fields, such as synthetic biology and biomanufacturing.

China’s rise puts the United States in a perilous position because our biotech sector isn’t just another industry. It’s a national strategic asset. Advances in biotech help keep America healthy by preventing, treating and curing disease. Biotech safeguards our national security by bolstering agriculture and energy production and protecting us from pandemics and bioterrorism. U.S. biotech exports help project American influence around the globe.

Biotechnology is also a vital engine of economic prosperity, generating almost 7 percent of U.S. private-sector GDP and supporting roughly 10 million jobs across all 50 states.

The good news is that we still have the tools to win the biotech race.

There’s a reason the biotech revolution began here nearly 50 years ago. America has world-class research institutions, strong intellectual property protections, unparalleled capital markets and a culture of entrepreneurship that no competitor can replicate. We have delivered breakthroughs that have raised life expectancy, transformed once-fatal diagnoses like cystic fibrosis and are at the vanguard of breakthroughs like gene editing.

But if we want to stay in front, we need a national effort equal to the stakes.

That starts with leadership from our policymakers. They must protect the foundation of all progress: federal support for basic research. Nearly every breakthrough drug developed by the private sector rests, in some way, on discoveries first seeded by publicly funded research. Cut that lifeline and our leadership collapses.

The National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology recently outlined additional policy solutions: elevate biotechnology as a national priority with White House-level coordination, integrate it into defense planning and treat biological data as a strategic resource. We must also build a skilled biotech workforce and partner with allies to strengthen supply chains and fund collaborative R&D.

Policymakers also need to cut red tape, unleashing the private sector and the entrepreneurial spirit that have been the bedrocks of our biotech industry.

Today, American biotech innovators are constrained by a sometimes inconsistent and unpredictable regulatory system, and legislative and executive branch proposals that deter risk-taking and slow drug development. For example, any attempts to weaken patent protections would make it far harder to attract the multi-billion-dollar investments required to bring new therapies to patients. U.S. firms are already vulnerable to Chinese intellectual property theft.

We stand at a crossroads. America can either cede the future of biotechnology to our adversaries or summon the vision and resolve to lead it. The choice we make now will shape the health and prosperity of our people, the strength of our economy and the security of our nation for generations to come. Indeed, the entire world is a better, safer, healthier and more prosperous place when the United States leads in biotechnology.

Sen. Todd Young (R-Ind.) is chair of the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB). John F. Crowley is the President and CEO of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO).

The views expressed in this article are the writers’ own.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-statement-on-governor-brauns-executive-order-establishing-indiana-drone-taskforce/,Young Statement on Governor Braun’s Executive Order Establishing Indiana Drone Taskforce,2025-10-29,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) applauded an executive order (EO) issued by Indiana Governor Mike Braun (R-Ind.) positioning Indiana to lead in the federal government’s mission of American drone dominance. Governor Braun developed the EO in collaboration with Senator Young.

As a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, Young is working on drone issues at the federal level.

“Drones are increasingly critical to our economy and national security, and as a leading manufacturing state, Indiana is positioned to help unleash American drone dominance,” said Senator Young. “Over the past several months, my team has worked hand in hand with Governor Braun’s team on developing this executive order. Governor Braun has been a great partner on this issue, and I look forward to continuing to work with the Governor and Hoosier stakeholders to support the President’s executive order and empower the U.S. drone industry.”

“Indiana has always stepped up to use our skills and labor to support America’s defense. Indiana’s advanced manufacturing capacity and our concentration of defense and research assets make us uniquely suited to lead in America’s pursuit of drone dominance, and this new Task Force will position Indiana as a national asset and drive innovation in this important sector,” said Governor Braun.

The EO establishes the Indiana Initiative for Drone Dominance Task Force, which will develop a strategic plan for how the state can utilize our unique attributes to lead the nation in this important sector. This includes our robust advanced manufacturing industry, expertise from NSWC Crane, restricted airspace over assets like Camp Atterbury and Muscatatuck Urban Training Center, strong policy framework, and universities with established programs to further drone research and development.

The new task force will coordinate efforts across government, academia, and industry to support President Trump’s Unleashing American Drone Dominanceand Restoring American Airspace Sovereignty executive orders, which set a national goal for American leadership in drone technology and airspace security.

Drones represent the next aviation revolution, with the North American drone market estimated to reach $59 billion by 2030.

Key priorities of the task force include:

Developing a cross-sector aerial test corridor connecting sites such as Camp Atterbury, Muscatatuck Urban Training Center, and NSWC Crane.

Expanding public safety applications of unmanned aircraft during major sporting and civic events.

Strengthening Indiana’s drone manufacturing supply chain and encouraging growth among small and emerging firms.

Exploring new infrastructure for detection, tracking, and neutralization of unauthorized drones.

Supporting workforce training programs and partnerships with Indiana colleges and universities to prepare Hoosiers for high-tech drone careers.

Preserving Indiana’s commitment to personal privacy and safety through all drone testing and policies.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-urges-fbi-doj-to-crack-down-on-illegal-alien-crime-stats/,"Sen. Banks Urges FBI, DOJ to Crack Down on Illegal Alien Crime Stats",2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel urging the Department of Justice and the FBI to improve data collection on crimes committed by illegal immigrants and other aliens. The letter calls for the FBI to ask local law enforcement to report the immigration status and national origin of arrestees in its National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS).

In part, the letter reads:

“The United States has a serious and growing problem with immigrant crime. Of course, every person who enters the United States illegally commits a crime. But those who cross our borders are increasingly likely to threaten the lives and safety of American citizens. The Biden administration allowed half a million illegal aliens with criminal histories to roam in American communities. The previous administration also abused programs like Temporary Protected Status and humanitarian parole to give cartel members and terrorists the guise of legality.

Even though many individuals entering the country have a violent past, critical gaps in crime data reporting keep the American people from understanding when and how often these individuals and other aliens commit crimes once they are here. The Bureau of Prisons and United States Sentencing Commission track the national origin of federal offenders, but the overwhelming majority of crime happens at the state and local level. Most violent crimes, most property crimes, and many drug offenses fall under local jurisdiction.”

Read more about the story here.

Click here to see the full letter or see text below:

Dear Attorney General Bondi and Director Patel:

I write to request that you help strengthen the collection of data related to immigrant crimes. The murders of Laken Riley and Jocelyn Nungaray are among the horrific crimes committed by illegal aliens, but they are far from the only ones. As mass migration becomes a public safety hazard, the federal government should help the American people understand exactly how many crimes are being committed by aliens.

The United States has a serious and growing problem with immigrant crime. Of course, every person who enters the United States illegally commits a crime. But those who cross our borders are increasingly likely to threaten the lives and safety of American citizens. The Biden administration allowed half a million illegal aliens with criminal histories to roam in American communities. The previous administration also abused programs like Temporary Protected Status and humanitarian parole to give cartel members and terrorists the guise of legality.

Even though many individuals entering the country have a violent past, critical gaps in crime data reporting keep the American people from understanding when and how often these individuals and other aliens commit crimes once they are here. The Bureau of Prisons and United States Sentencing Commission track the national origin of federal offenders, but the overwhelming majority of crime happens at the state and local level. Most violent crimes, most property crimes, and many drug offenses fall under local jurisdiction.

The responsibility for reporting the citizenship status of offenders falls largely on states and localities—but they generally do not track this data.

The Department of Justice collects some aggregate statistics about the citizenship of state prison populations. These statistics, however, do not distinguish between noncitizens with legal status and noncitizens who are in the country unlawfully or through programs like TPS. They also generally leave out offenders in local jails, who make up about one-third of the inmate population.

In line with President Trump’s recent directive to increase “collection, distribution, and uniformity of crime data,” the DOJ and FBI can help strengthen data about immigrant crime. The FBI standardizes local crime data reporting through its National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS). Local law enforcement report criminal incidents using data set by NIBRS, including demographic information about arrestees. NIBRS does not require law enforcement to collect an arrestee’s immigration status or national origin, and only includes ethnicity as an optional element.

Most states and localities participate in NIBRS, so requiring information about an arrestee’s immigration status, national origin, and ethnicity would encourage local jurisdictions to collect it.

Ultimately, this data would put information about the public safety risks of immigration in the hands of those who govern it. Any crime committed by an illegal alien is one crime too many, but the American people and their elected representatives deserve to know how many of these crimes are happening, and to set immigration policy accordingly.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and thank you for your efforts to make America safe again.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-introduces-purdues-dr-joe-jewell-before-the-senate-armed-services-committee/,Senator Banks Introduces Purdue’s Dr. Joe Jewell Before the Senate Armed Services Committee,2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced a fellow Hoosier, Dr. Joe Jewell before the Senate Armed Services Committee for his nomination hearing to be the Assistant Secretary of War for Science and Technology.

See the full introduction here.

See remarks below:

“I’m proud that President Trump has nominated Dr. Joe Jewell to be the Assistant Secretary of War forScience and Technology. The threat of China overtaking us in military technology has never been greater, and we need leaders like Dr. Jewell to help get us back on track.

Dr. Joseph Jewell is a professor at Purdue University in my home state of Indiana, focusing on hypersonics. At Purdue, he leads to the hypersonic Mach 6 Quiet Tunnel Research Group and the wind tunnel at the Purdue Applied Research Institute. Purdue’s partnership with Naval Surface Warfare

Center Crane has helped make Purdue a national leader in hypersonic research and development.

Dr. Jewell has also authored more than 150 published research papers in aerospace engineering and hypersonics, and his research has led to patents that advance our hypersonic capabilities. Dr. Jewell received his Ph.D. from Caltech and his master’s degree from Oxford, where he was a Rhodes Scholar. He has served as a subject matter expert on both classified and unclassified hypersonic programs, worked at the Air Force Research Laboratory, and serves on the Defense Science Study Group.

With Dr. Jewell joining what is already an outstanding research and engineering team led by Undersecretary Emil Michael, I know that America will meet the gravity of this moment. Dr. Jewell could not be more qualified for this role and position. He will make an outstanding Assistant Secretary of War for Science and Technology.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-kelly-statement-on-commerce-subcommittee-shipbuilding-revitalization-hearing/,"Young, Kelly Statement on Commerce Subcommittee Shipbuilding Revitalization Hearing",2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), lead sponsors of the SHIPS for America Act, released the following statement after the Senate Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Coast Guard, Maritime, and Fisheries held a hearing on the importance of revitalizing America shipbuilding:

“Today’s hearing made clear that there is growing, bipartisan momentum to rebuild American shipbuilding, which will be good for our economy and national security. This hearing is an important step in getting the SHIPS for America Act passed to revitalize our maritime and shipbuilding industries.

“We’ll keep working in Congress and with maritime leaders to pass our bill that will create good-paying jobs and counter China’s dominance over the oceans.”

The hearing – titled “Sea Change: Reviving Commercial Shipbuilding” – examined how to modernize and accelerate U.S. commercial shipbuilding while strengthening America’s broader maritime industrial base. The hearing also focused on issues likely to be addressed in the Trump Administration’s upcoming Maritime Action Plan, expected to be released in early November.

Senators Young and Kelly introduced the bipartisan, bicameral legislation to revitalize the United States shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries earlier this year.

The SHIPS for America Act would:

Coordinate U.S. maritime policy by establishing the position of Maritime Security Advisor within the White House, who would lead an interagency Maritime Security Board tasked with making whole-of-government strategic decisions for how to implement a National Maritime Strategy.

Establish a Maritime Security Trust Fund that would reinvest duties and fees paid by the maritime industry into maritime security programs and infrastructure supporting maritime commerce to provide long-lasting and stable funding.

Establish a national goal of expanding the U.S.-flagged international fleet by 250 ships in 10 years by creating the Strategic Commercial Fleet, which would facilitate the development of a fleet of commercially operated, U.S.-flagged, American-crewed, and domestically built merchant vessels that can operate competitively in international commerce.

Enhance the competitiveness of U.S.-flagged vessels in international commerce by cutting through red tape, modifying duties to make cargo on U.S.-flagged vessels more competitive, requiring that government-funded cargo move aboard U.S.-flagged vessels, and requiring a portion of commercial goods imported from China to move aboard U.S.-flagged vessels starting in 2030.

Expand the U.S. shipyard industrial base, for both military and commercial oceangoing vessels, by establishing a 25 percent investment tax credit for shipyard investments, transforming the Title XI Federal Ship Financing Program into a revolving fund, and establishing a Shipbuilding Financial Incentives program to support innovative approaches to domestic ship building and ship repair.

Accelerate U.S. leadership in next-generation ship design, manufacturing processes, and ship energy systems by establishing the U.S. Center for Maritime Innovation.

Create regional hubs for maritime innovation across the country by establishing a Maritime Prosperity Zone program to unlock private capital and spur investment in industrial capacity and job creation.

Make historic investments in the maritime workforce, allowing mariners to retain their credentials, investing in long-overdue infrastructure needs for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and supporting State Maritime Academies and Centers for Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education. The bill also makes long-overdue changes to streamline and modernize the U.S. Coast Guard’s Merchant Mariner Credentialing system.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-budd-condemn-chinese-crackdown-on-religious-freedom/,"Young, Budd Condemn Chinese Crackdown on Religious Freedom",2025-10-27,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Ted Budd (R-N.C.) introduced legislation to combat ongoing persecution of Christians and other religious minorities in China. The Combatting the Persecution of Religious Groups in China Act, filed on the 27th anniversary of International Religious Freedom Day, would implement strict sanctions on any Chinese official who is responsible for or directly carries out violations of religious freedom.

“China’s systematic persecution of religious leaders who peacefully practice their faith is horrific and shameful. We must continue to strongly condemn this action by the Chinese Communist Party and hold accountable those who perpetuate this reprehensible behavior,” said Senator Young.

“China’s disdain for religious freedom is not new. It is an ongoing and brutal pattern of abuse that must be met with steadfast American strength. As the leader of the free world, the United States must promote religious freedom around the world and hold China’s authoritarian regime responsible for decades of persecution targeting Christians and other religious minorities. The CCP’s restrictions on freedom of religion and cruelty toward religious minorities in China must come to an end,” said Senator Budd.

Background:

The Combatting the Persecution of Religious Groups in China Act would:

Impose sanctions on Chinese officials who are responsible for or directly carrying out religious freedom abuse such as arbitrary imprisonment, forced labor, and broader restrictions on freedom of religion or belief.

Strengthen efforts to combat the ongoing persecution of Protestant Christians, Catholics, Muslims, Buddhists, Falun Gong practitioners, and other religious minorities in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) within Department of State’s programs, including its Bureau of East and Pacific Affairs.

Express the sense of Congress that China should continue to be designated as a Country of Particular Concern.

In addition to Senators Young and Budd, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) co-sponsored the legislation.

Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congressman Mark Alford (R-MO-4).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-kelly-column-a-post-shutdown-priority-build-more-ships/,YOUNG/KELLY COLUMN: A Post-Shutdown Priority: Build More Ships,2025-10-27,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"The following letter by U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) was published in the Wall Street Journal on October 27, 2025.

Kate Farmer ably reports that “The Navy at 250 Faces New Challenges” (op-ed, Oct. 13). Secretary John Phelan told our colleagues in the House this summer that our programs are “a mess,” “behind schedule and overbudget.” All this while China is strengthening its own capacity: Beijing builds six naval combatant ships for every 1.8 ships we construct.

The silver lining: There is growing political will not to accept the status quo. President Trump this spring signed an executive order, “Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance,” that seeks to rehabilitate the industry and engage allies.

In Congress we introduced the Ships for America Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill that would jumpstart production of new U.S.-flagged vessels; rebuild the U.S. shipyard industrial base; and expand and strengthen mariner and shipyard-worker recruitment, training and retention, creating thousands of new jobs for Americans. There’s momentum to pass our bill and send a message that the U.S. is serious about revitalizing our commercial maritime industries and countering China’s dominance over the oceans.

Why not make it a first order of business when the government reopens? Time isn’t our ally.

Sen. Mark Kelly (D., Ariz.)

Tucson, Ariz.

Sen. Todd Young (R., Ind.)

Bargersville, Ind.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-discusses-the-ships-act-importance-of-commercial-shipbuilding-during-commerce-hearing/,"Young Discusses the SHIPS Act, Importance of Commercial Shipbuilding During Commerce Hearing",2025-10-22,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"**Click here or above to watch Senator Young’s full remarks.**

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.), a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, discussed the importance of the SHIPS for America Act and restoring America’s commercial shipbuilding during a Commerce Committee hearing.

“The President has made building ships in America a priority, and I have legislation, the SHIPS for America Act, that would set the conditions for restoring American dominance,” said Senator Young.

Young also highlighted America’s disadvantage in shipbuilding capacity compared to China and emphasized the need to strengthen U.S. maritime industrial capability.

“The numbers are pretty disturbing. China has – the numbers vary – but roughly 5,500 ships that can operate in ocean-level shipping,” said Senator Young. “We have much less than that, 80 roughly, and we have the capacity to build only five a year. So, we need to up our game, and the SHIPS Act would help us build 250 over the next 10.”

The hearing considered nominees to serve in the Maritime Administration, the Federal Maritime Commission, and the Department of Commerce, including Mr. Timothy Petty, of Indiana, to be Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-bill-to-increase-americas-global-competitiveness-advances-out-of-committee/,Young Bill to Increase America’s Global Competitiveness Advances Out of Committee,2025-10-21,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation advanced the Global Investment in American Jobs Act, a bill led by U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.) to increase America’s global competitiveness and ensure our nation continues to be the most attractive destination for international companies to invest.

“An important component of maintaining American leadership in the research, development, and deployment of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, biotechnologies, and quantum computing involves removing barriers that inhibit foreign direct investment from trusted countries into the United States,” said Senator Young. “I’m glad to see this important legislation advance out of the Commerce Committee, and it is now time to bring this bill to the Senate floor.”

For decades, foreign direct investment in America has strengthened our nation’s economy by bringing more good paying jobs to our communities, boosting domestic research and development, and exporting more American-made goods. However, in the face of heightened competition from other countries, America must remain intentional about attracting international investment. The Global Investment in American Jobs Act would support this effort by directing the Secretary of Commerce to conduct a government-wide review of ways to increase America’s global competitiveness in attracting foreign direct investment and report the findings to Congress.

Full legislative text can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-cruz-blackburn-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-u-s-taiwan-relations-counter-ccp-coercion/,"Young, Cruz, Blackburn Introduce Legislation to Strengthen U.S.-Taiwan Relations, Counter CCP Coercion",2025-10-21,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined U.S. Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) in introducing the Taiwan Symbols of Sovereignty (Taiwan SOS) Act. The bill authorizes Taiwanese diplomats and service members to display their flag and wear their uniforms while in the United States on official business.

“Taiwan’s government, military, and people deserve to be treated with the same respect and recognition we afford other countries,” said Senator Young. “Our bill will strengthen U.S.-Taiwan relations and stand up to the Chinese Communist Party’s coercion.”

“The Chinese Communist Party is committed to eroding Taiwan’s global status, and the United States should be just as committed to strengthening it. The Obama administration did enormous damage to American national security when it first implemented these prohibitions against our Taiwanese allies, and I have been battling this policy ever since,” said Senator Cruz. “It was successfully overturned during the first Trump administration, before being reinstated under Biden, again to the detriment of the safety and security of Americans and our allies. There has been broad, explicit bipartisan support for rescinding these prohibitions, and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee has advanced this language to do so. I am confident they will do so again, and I call on my colleagues in the Senate to advance it to passage.”

“Taiwan is a sovereign nation, and the U.S. should not support Communist China’s efforts to undermine its independence by restricting Taiwanese diplomats and service members from displaying their flag,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Taiwan SOS Act would make it clear the United States firmly stands with Taiwan.”

Background:

The Taiwan SOS Act reverses guidelines originating with the Obama Administration and reinstated by the Biden Administration that prohibit the display of symbols representing Taiwan at official government events. Senator Young has previously helped introduce this legislation in 2020 and in 2022. The language was advanced by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in 2021.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-johnson-introduce-legislation-to-ensure-hard-working-americans-are-paid-during-government-shutdowns/,"Young, Johnson Introduce Legislation to Ensure Hard-Working Americans are Paid During Government Shutdowns",2025-10-21,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined U.S. Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) in introducing the Shutdown Fairness Act to ensure that hard-working Americans are paid during government shutdowns. This legislation would appropriate funds for pay and allowances of excepted federal employees for periods of work performed during a lapse in appropriations, and for other purposes.

“Excepted” workers are federal employees who must continue working during a lapse in appropriations because their duties are legally authorized to continue, performing essential services to protect life and property or ensure national security.

“Essential federal employees who continue to show up and do their jobs during this government shutdown manufactured by Senate Democrats shouldn’t pay a price,” said Senator Young. “The Shutdown Fairness Act would make sure these hard-working Americans are paid on time for the work they perform, just as they deserve.”

“With Democrats continuing the Schumer Shutdown, they should at least agree to pay all the federal employees that are forced to continue working. The 2025 Shutdown Fairness Act is a permanent fix that will ensure excepted workers and our troops are paid during a shutdown,” Senator Johnson said.

In addition to Senators Young and Johnson, U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), James Risch (R-Idaho), and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) also helped introduce the legislation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-senator-banks-on-fox-news-if-you-send-drugs-to-usa-you-will-pay-a-price/,ICYMI: Senator Banks on Fox News: “If You Send Drugs to USA… You Will Pay a Price”,2025-10-20,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) joined The Sunday Briefing to talk about President Trump’s America First agenda. He highlighted the importance of promoting peace through strength to end the war between Ukraine and Russia, and the need to secure our borders by stopping narco-terrorists and the flow of illegal drugs into the United States.

Click the image above for the full discussion

Key Excerpts:

Sen. Banks: “… What Zelensky said as well, that President Trump is the only one who can negotiate a deal to bring peace to Ukraine to end the war. At the same time, you have Putin saying that the war never would have started if Donald Trump was president in the first place. It feels like President Trump is making large gains here. And if things like this could get us closer to that, to something that brings peace in Ukraine, I give Donald Trump a lot of credit for it.”

***

Sen Banks: “He’s 100% right… Remember, President Trump was completely underestimated when it came to Iran and threatening to end their nuclear program. They didn’t do it, so he bombed them. He set back the nuclear program in Iran and devastated that program, and that’s what Venezuela and Maduro and all the narco-terrorists need to understand, in Central and South America. That if you send drugs to the United States of America and kill Americans, then you are at war with us, and you will pay a price. That’s why I totally back what President Trump is trying to do, taking out drug-runners on submarines, or all of the cartels at the southern border. Do whatever it takes, declare war on them, don’t let them get away with it, and put Maduro on notice of that’s exactly what we’re going to do…”

***

Sen. Banks: “…We’ve used the Reaper drones. We’re using units like this to take out narco-terrorists trafficking drugs into the United States. And I find that Hoosiers completely agree with and support that mission. We’ve seen the devastating effects. We’ve had more Americans die of drug overdoses in the last year than in the entire war in Vietnam. And that’s what we need to remember here. The President Trump is putting them on notice. This isn’t Joe.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-joins-threat-status-to-discuss-u-s-china-competition-on-critical-minerals-biotech-and-shipbuilding/,"Young Joins “Threat Status” to Discuss U.S.-China Competition on Critical Minerals, Biotech, and Shipbuilding",2025-10-20,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"**Click here or above to watch the Senator’s full interview.**

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.), a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, joined the “Threat Status” program hosted by the Washington Times to discuss the ongoing U.S.-China competition.

Young discussed how recent Chinese restrictions on rare earth mineral exports could have a detrimental impact on the U.S. defense industry and said Beijing’s dominance over the processing of the materials is emerging as a key aspect of U.S.-China competition.

“This competition is currently shaping our lives in fundamental ways,” said Young. “It is poised to shape our children’s lives in even more fundamental ways, economically, in terms of our national security and every other facet of life.”

Earlier this year, Young laid out the start of an aggressive strategy, including hisSTRATEGIC Minerals Act, to encourage the Trump Administration to collaborate with other countries and reduce America’s exposure to China.

“They have vast stores of rare earth minerals and other critical minerals that they provide into the American market,” said Young. “These are key inputs as we electrify our economy. And they’re also key inputs to other, important, manufactured goods like defense articles. We literally cannot produce our defense goods without access to rare earth minerals.”

Young also discussed his work as Chairman of the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology. The Commission delivered an action plan earlier this year, with a warning that the U.S.-China competition on biotech will “define the coming century.”

Finally, Young discussed the SHIPS for America Act, legislation he introduced with Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) aimed at revitalizing America’s domestic shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-gallego-discuss-bill-to-help-first-time-homebuyers-on-fox-news/,"Young, Gallego Discuss Bill to Help First-Time Homebuyers on Fox News",2025-10-17,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"**To watch the full interview, click here or above.**

WASHINGTON – Last night, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) joined Special Report on Fox News to discuss their bill to help more Americans buy their first home.

The Uplifting First-Time Homebuyers Act would increase the Individual Retirement Account (IRA) tax exception withdrawal limit from $10,000 to $50,000, better reflecting today’s housing market. Updating the IRA withdrawal limit will unlock more opportunities for Americans to become homeowners and invest in their future.

Young and Gallego also discussed the ongoing federal government shutdown.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-votes-for-annual-defense-bill-to-support-our-military-address-global-threats/,"Young Votes for Annual Defense Bill to Support Our Military, Address Global Threats",2025-10-17,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) applauded Senate passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026, which passed the Senate 77-20 last week. The annual defense bill will set policy for the Department of Defense (DoD), establish national security priorities, and give service members a much-deserved pay raise.

“The National Defense Authorization Act is one of the most important pieces of legislation Congress considers each year. I’m pleased the Senate-passed bill includes several important priorities I’ve worked on to modernize our defense capabilities, support Indiana’s defense industrial base and workforce, strengthen our critical minerals supply chain, and maintain American leadership in biotech. I look forward to working with the House of Representatives to get this bill across the finish line,” said Senator Young.

Senator Young worked to secure the following provisions in the Senate-passed NDAA:

Support for Indiana’s defense capabilities and technologies:

$10 million for reusable hypersonic test bed integration and testing for MACH-TB at Naval Surface Warfare Center-Crane Division (NSWC Crane) in southern Indiana.

$10 million for PELE microreactor production by BWXT, which has a facility in Mount Vernon, and supported by Rolls Royce in Indianapolis. This cutting edge technology will provide American military bases and installations with resilient, reliable electricity.

AI Maritime Maneuver (2.0) funding to support Trine University and NSWC Crane’s collaborative development of AI-enabled maritime maneuvering and navigation.

Anti-Submarine Warfare Equipment funding to protect our Navy as they are on the forefront of securing vital sea lanes, securing commerce, and reducing threats to the homeland from the navies of China and Russia. Sonobuoys, like those manufactured by Ultra Maritime in Columbia City, are a vital tool in detecting and tracking submarine threats from our peer competitors.

$5 million to support the Defense Innovation Unit OnRamp Hub, led by the Indiana-based Applied Research Institute (ARI), that will accelerate national security innovation and deliver emerging technologies to the DoD. Senator Young supported ARI’s winning application for this Hub project earlier this year.

$168 million for the procurement of 224 additional Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs), which will be built by AM General in Mishawaka.

Critical updates to Indiana’s defense infrastructure:

$161 million for Crane Army Ammunition Activity to modernize the production of pyrotechnics.

$55 million to the Indiana Army National Guard in Shelbyville for critical flight facility upgrades.

$18 million for an F-16 training facility in Fort Wayne.

The AUMF repeal bill,authored by Senators Young and Tim Kaine (D-Va.),to repeal the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMF) against Iraq. The Gulf War started 34 years ago, and the Iraq War began 22 years ago. These conflicts have long ended, and today Iraq is a partner, not an adversary. This legislation, which was included in both the House-version and the Senate-version of the NDAA, would repeal the outdated AUMFs and close the book on these forever wars.

The Finding ORE Act to strengthen U.S. mineral security and reduce strategic vulnerabilities. This legislation would create opportunities for collaboration between the United States and other countries to update geological mapping with the goal of locating critical mineral deposits. These partnerships would be mutually beneficial and provide the United States access to more critical minerals, reducing our dependence on China.

The BIOSECURE Act, legislation to prohibit federal contracting with certain biotechnology providers connected to foreign adversaries. This effort stems in part from Senator Young’s role as chair of the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB). The NDAA also includes 14 other NSCEB recommendations that would spur biotech innovation critical to our national security and defense capabilities and ensure the U.S. maintains global leadership in biotechnology.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-column-how-america-can-win-the-biotech-race/,YOUNG COLUMN: How America Can Win the Biotech Race,2025-10-15,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"The following column by U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) was published in Foreign Affairs on October 15, 2025

By Todd Young

In September 2024, Akeso, a little-known Chinese biopharmaceutical company, announced that clinical trials had shown that its new drug could halt the progression of a type of lung cancer for nearly a full year. These results sent shock waves through the pharmaceutical industry: the previous best-in-class drug, produced by the U.S. pharmaceutical giant Merck, delayed new tumor growth for only six months.

Spurred by breakthroughs like this, China is becoming a world-leading biotechnology innovator. Western biopharmaceutical companies are clamoring to ink deals with their Chinese counterparts. Over the last five years, the number of agreements struck by Chinese companies producing cancer drugs to license their intellectual property has more than doubled. The total market capitalization of China’s publicly listed biotech firms has reached $1.5 trillion, second only to that of the United States.

As China surges, many traditional American strengths have atrophied. The United States lacks a targeted federal strategy for biotechnology, and its policymaking is fragmented and uncoordinated. Federal research funding has stagnated, while skittish investors are avoiding cutting-edge projects. Regulatory burdens slow down innovators who want to go from lab to market. And the United States’ research infrastructure, biological data reserves, and workforce development pipeline are not just faltering—they are being left in the dust by Beijing.

The United States cannot, and should not, try to beat China by being more like China, which relies on subsidizing handpicked firms. Instead, the United States should lean into its existing advantages, especially its private sector. By proactively remedying market failures, the federal government can help unleash private-sector capital to fuel the country’s world-class biotechnology industry. If the United States successfully reasserts its biotech leadership, it can ensure that the new technology makes everyone safer, healthier, and more secure. But if the United States remains passive, China will shape how biotechnology develops, threatening not only U.S. dominance in this vital sector but also its national security.

THE NEW BIOTECH ERA

China is gaining ground in biotechnology just as the field is entering a fundamentally new age. Thanks to breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, engineering, and automation, researchers can now model extraordinarily complex biological systems without needing to fully understand how those systems work. In 2021, for instance, researchers from Google’s AI lab, DeepMind, solved the previously impossible challenge of understanding and predicting how proteins fold. Before AI, enumerating all possible shapes of a single protein would have taken longer than the age of the known universe. DeepMind’s AlphaFold system, in contrast, can accurately predict the shape of a protein in minutes.

Humans are now on the cusp of understanding and programming cells as easily as they program computers. AI models are learning how to become fluent in the language of DNA, just as they can communicate easily in English or Mandarin. Technology is also democratizing biotechnology, in much the way that personal computers became more affordable in the 1990s. The cost of sequencing a human genome, for example, has dropped from hundreds of millions of dollars in the early 2000s to hundreds of dollars today.

As biotechnology becomes more accessible, its applications are multiplying by the day. Noninvasive genetic testing has existed for decades; breakthroughs in genomics are now transforming how doctors treat previously incurable diseases. In 2023, for example, researchers developed the first FDA-approved gene therapy based on CRISPR-Cas9 technology, using a patient’s own edited stem cells to treat sickle cell disease. Research labs are deploying AI to further develop these biotechnologies, which could lead to new treatments and medicine for a range of life-threatening diseases.

THE BIOTECH BATTLEFIELD

Emerging biotechnology has major ramifications for national security and geopolitical competition. It has the potential to reshape every strategic sector, including defense, agriculture, energy, and manufacturing. In the realm of the military, biotechnology could allow countries to reshore the production of chemicals used in munitions. Soldiers could synthesize food, medication, and other battlefield essentials on the frontlines by using technologies that fit inside a backpack.

Manufacturers could also use custom-designed proteins to separate critical minerals from waste in the mining process, which could lower the costs of extracting such minerals, increase their production, and reduce dependence on unreliable supply chain partners. Farmers could grow drought- and pest-resistant crops. Biotechnology could even change the future of computing power by replacing silicon-based storage hardware with a synthetic, biological alternative that could hold significantly more data in less space.

These innovations could help a country thrive—or be used to hurt a rival. A military could exploit human enhancements to outmaneuver and overwhelm an adversary. Modified pathogens could be developed and unleashed into an enemy’s agricultural system, wiping out farmers’ livelihoods and causing prices at the grocery store to skyrocket. And adversaries could weaponize dependencies on pharmaceuticals to disrupt a country’s supplies of vital medications.

The country that leads global biotechnology will determine how and to what ends this transformative technology is used. For most of the twentieth century, the United States dominated the field. In the 1940s, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in partnership with the private sector, discovered and mass-produced new strains of penicillin. In the 1970s, American biochemists discovered how to cut and splice DNA fragments, paving the way for the development of synthetic medicines. In the 1990s, the United States led the effort to sequence the full human genome for the first time. To this day, the United States has more biotechnology patents, companies, and Nobel Prize winners than any other country.

CHINA’S CHAMPIONS

But China is swiftly closing the gap. For nearly 20 years, China has made biotechnology a strategic priority, implementing a comprehensive package of financing, subsidies, and diplomatic support for its domestic industry. In 2020, Chinese leader Xi Jinping stressed the need to incorporate biosecurity into the country’s national security system, pushing for more independent scientific innovation so that China would not need to depend on the United States.

Both the Chinese Communist Party and the army have taken Xi’s charge to heart. They have launched a so-called whole-of-nation effort—centralizing control of science and technology efforts and leveraging all available state resources at their disposal—to develop cutting-edge biotechnologies to advance their military and economic objectives. Beijing is investing heavily in gene editing, bionic robots, human-machine teaming (that is, collaboration between humans and machines), and biomanufacturing. It has collapsed the barriers between civilian and defense research so that ostensibly private Chinese companies, such as the biotechnology giant BGI Group, serve the CCP’s military and technology research goals. It is no coincidence that BGI also manages the China National GeneBank, which stores genetic data and biological samples.

Beijing has turned to a familiar playbook to promote its biotech goals. It lavishes subsidies on its chosen champions and helps them acquire U.S. companies that are developing promising technologies. In 2013, for instance, BGI purchased the U.S.-based company Complete Genomics, which made BGI the world leader in genetic sequencing. Market dominance and scale make it possible for BGI to box out promising U.S. startups. The Chinese company WuXi AppTec—whose market share in biotech mirrors Huawei’s commanding position in telecommunications—has gobbled up U.S. firms to gain access to their intellectual property. Today, the vast majority of U.S. biopharmaceutical companies depend on WuXi and similar Chinese firms for everything from drug discovery research services to manufacturing of finished pharmaceuticals.

The Chinese government supports biotech with investments in both physical and human capital. Beijing has built and funded over 100 world-class biotechnology parks with state-of-the-art lab space for companies. China’s state-owned enterprises are investing in biotech firms, and several have begun making acquisitions to expand overseas. Authorities have also urged venture capital firms to fund biotech ventures and companies. And an increasing number of Chinese students trained abroad are returning home, bolstering China’s rising competitiveness in the global race for scientific talent.

CAUSE FOR CONCERN

Beijing’s strategy is working. From 2016 to 2021, the market value of Chinese biotech firms grew 100-fold to $300 billion. By 2023, China’s investment in biopharmaceutical research and development had soared to $15 billion, from $35 million in 2015. From January to July 2025, the Hang Seng Biotech Index, which tracks the top 30 biotechnology, medical device, and pharmaceutical companies listed in Hong Kong, rose more than 60 percent, far outpacing the three percent gain in the NASDAQ Biotechnology Index over the same time frame.

China’s dominance goes beyond market gains. In 2024, China surpassed the United States in world-class cancer research output, as measured by the Nature index of top journals in science and health. In synthetic biology, too, China has upstaged the United States as the top source of research. In 2010, researchers based in the United States published 45 percent of the most-cited research papers in the field, while those in China accounted for 13 percent. In 2023, researchers in China published 60 percent, while their U.S. counterparts produced only seven percent.

Beijing’s biotech strategy is working.

China has now surpassed the United States in drug clinical trials, registering more than 7,100 in 2024, to the United States’ 6,000. Offering government-backed scale and low prices, the global share of China’s pharmaceutical output quadrupled from 2002 to 2019. U.S. and foreign drug manufacturers are increasingly dependent on Chinese sources for the raw materials and intermediate inputs for active pharmaceutical ingredients, and on fully Chinese-made active ingredients, as well.

Beijing’s biotechnology success is both an impressive achievement and a cause for deep concern for the United States and its partners. China’s biotech industry operates with fewer ethical guardrails, which could cause irreversible damage. In 2018, a Chinese biophysicist used the CRISPR-Cas9 technology to edit the genomes of human embryos, which broke global norms and opened up a Pandora’s box of unknown consequences. The scientist was fired and sentenced to three years in prison, but he is already back in the lab. Yet rogue scientists are not the only abusers of biotechnology. Journalists have documented how Chinese authorities are methodically collecting genomic data on millions of Uyghurs, a Muslim minority group, and using it to support a campaign of mass repression that the United States government has formally designated as genocide.

In 2021, Reuters revealed that a commercially available prenatal test developed by BGI that had been used by more than eight million women across at least 52 countries had been created in partnership with researchers connected to the Chinese military. BGI has worked closely with the People’s Liberation Army and its affiliated medical universities on multiple other projects, including research that could have implications for improving the battlefield performance of Chinese soldiers. The CCP has given the world few reasons to trust that its biotechnology ambitions are benevolent.

ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL

The U.S. biotech industry is poised to grow, but it needs private capital to get off the sidelines and fuel the next wave of breakthroughs. While China provides its leading companies with cheap capital through government subsidies and investments, America’s strong private markets remain its core advantage. The U.S. government needs to empower those markets to do their job by addressing the obstacles biotechnology companies face in scaling up innovations: complex regulations, underutilized capital, and insufficient protections against dangers such as intellectual property theft.

Since its creation in 2022, the bipartisan National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology, on which I serve as chairman, has searched for ways to advance U.S. leadership in biotechnology. Most important, the United States needs a private-public partnership to develop the domestic biotechnology industry so it can reach its full potential. Such an alliance would remedy the market failures that inhibit American innovators, investors, and entrepreneurs from achieving breakthroughs in the field. Supply-side actions such as research prizes and infrastructure investments can accelerate R & D, while targeted demand-side policies can reduce financial risks and regulatory bottlenecks and make the U.S. government a better customer for biotechnology products.

This spring, I helped introduce the bipartisan National Biotechnology Initiative Act of 2025, which would enshrine some of the commission’s recommendations in federal law, including streamlining biotech regulations and establishing an office to coordinate national biotechnology strategy. I am also working with my colleagues to advance legislation to create an Independence Investment Fund that would invest in technology startups that strengthen U.S. national and economic security; authorize and finance a network of manufacturing facilities across the United States to scale up bioindustrial products before they are fully commercially viable; make investments to improve the effectiveness and reach of the popular Small Business Innovation Research/Technology Transfer program to support early-stage innovation; and use advance market commitments—promises to buy biotechnology products if they are successfully produced—and purchase agreements to smooth out unpredictable or inconsistent demand, among many other policies.

A TEAM EFFORT

If the United States is to reassert its global biotechnology leadership and shape a secure, safe, and ethical biotechnology future, the U.S. government must work with allies. The United States and its likeminded partners must set the standards for how biotechnology is developed and used rather than wait for China to build a system that allows unethical gene editing and biotech-powered mass surveillance and repression.

The United States must show the world that Beijing’s tactics are not aimed at mutually beneficial international partnerships, but at global biotechnological control. That pursuit of dominance will not be limited to overtaking the United States; the CCP’s strategy is to use its growing biotech dominance as economic and geopolitical leverage around the world.

Whereas the Chinese party leadership appears to view other countries’ bioeconomies as threats to be contained, the United States should view them as opportunities to secure and expand a shared biotechnological future. As with defense and economic alliances, the United States must work with partners to foster a collective security outlook that standardizes the approach to biotechnology protection. Specifically, the United States and its allies need to establish a unified approach to data security, export controls, and whether and how to accept investment from adversaries. Reciprocal biological data-sharing agreements would both advance collaborative research and implement and enforce secure, fair, and transparent data standards—especially when China has built its own large biodata repository, as its government has done in collaboration with BGI.

The United States must set the standards for how biotechnology is developed.

Advancing biotechnology also requires the United States to identify allies and partners that have complementary goals, capabilities, and expertise. Nearly every country has something valuable to offer, whether advanced manufacturing capabilities, computational biology prowess, or biobased chemicals and advanced therapeutics. Today, the State Department’s International Technology Security and Innovation Fund, which finances partnerships to improve global supply chains, does not cover biotechnology; that must be remedied immediately. The Trump administration should also expand its diplomatic efforts to promote American biotechnology, reaching out to partners to expand market access and boost aggregate demand for U.S. biotechnology products.

The United States has learned the lesson of technological complacency before—and paid dearly for it. Semiconductors, much like biotechnology, were an American invention, first soldered together in garages in Palo Alto. For years, however, China moved aggressively to close the gap. In 2022, Congress passed the landmark CHIPS and Science Act, which aimed to spur the production of semiconductors on U.S. and allied soil and to use export controls to prevent the most advanced semiconductor technology from getting into adversaries’ hands. This policy is succeeding. The United States is again becoming the leading global hub for advanced chip manufacturing, while its restrictions on adversaries’ access to semiconductors have set back China’s chip-making.

The United States can win the biotechnology race. By harnessing two of the United States’ greatest strengths—its dynamic private sector and its unmatched network of allies and partners across the world—Congress and the Trump administration can ensure that the United States, not China, leads the biotechnology age. Strategic action now is the difference between controlling the biotechnology future or being controlled by it.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-discusses-government-shutdown-military-pay-on-fox-business/,"Young Discusses Government Shutdown, Military Pay on Fox Business",2025-10-15,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"** Click here or above to watch Senator Young’s interview.**

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined The Claman Countdown with Liz Claman on Fox Business to discuss the ongoing federal government shutdown, including its impact on American servicemembers receiving their well-earned paychecks.

Senator Young has voted nine times to fund and reopen the government. Senate Democrats have continued to block the bill.

“The Democrats continue to obstruct efforts to keep government running – their most fundamental responsibility,” Young said.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-urges-fda-to-step-up-inspections-of-foreign-drug-plants/,Sen. Banks Urges FDA to Step Up Inspections of Foreign Drug Plants,2025-10-14,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) sent a letter to Dr. Martin Makary, Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, urging the agency to strengthen oversight of the U.S. drug supply amid growing concerns about poor-quality foreign manufacturers—particularly in China and India. The FDA’s inspections of drug manufacturing facilities have not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels.

In part, the letter reads:

“The FDA must do more to protect the U.S. drug supply. Unfortunately, shoddy foreign pharmaceutical plants and unscrupulous domestic producers that import from them are nothing new. The public expects the FDA to protect them from impure drugs by identifying them at the source and blocking them from entering the supply chain. The FDA’s import alerts demonstrate the extent of the problem. Among all facilities that were issued import alerts, 39% were located in China and 13% were located in India, versus the 10% average for other regions. In fiscal year 2024, the FDA only inspected 28% of Chinese facilities and 33% of Indian facilities in the Site Catalog (the list of facilities known to manufacture human pharmaceuticals for the U.S.). Of the facilities that were inspected, Indian manufacturers had the highest rate of serious “Current Good Manufacturing Practice” violations, at 13%.”

Click here to see the full letter or see text below:

Dear Dr. Makary:

I urge the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to accelerate the pace of pharmaceutical manufacturing facility inspections. According to the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research’s (CDER) recent Report on the State of Pharmaceutical Quality, inspections in China, India, and even the U.S. are falling behind. While the total number of inspections is increasing, it still has not recovered to pre-pandemic levels. From fiscal year 2019 to 2021, inspections plummeted by 80%, and they have only recovered to 74% of the 2019 level. Meanwhile, the number of drug manufacturers and facilities continues to grow.

The FDA must do more to protect the U.S. drug supply. Unfortunately, shoddy foreign pharmaceutical plants and unscrupulous domestic producers that import from them are nothing new. The public expects the FDA to protect them from impure drugs by identifying them at the source and blocking them from entering the supply chain. The FDA’s import alerts demonstrate the extent of the problem. Among all facilities that were issued import alerts, 39% were located in China and 13% were located in India, versus the 10% average for other regions. In fiscal year 2024, the FDA only inspected 28% of Chinese facilities and 33% of Indian facilities in the Site Catalog (the list of facilities known to manufacture human pharmaceuticals for the U.S.). Of the facilities that were inspected, Indian manufacturers had the highest rate of serious “Current Good Manufacturing Practice” violations, at 13%.

I appreciate that the FDA has prioritized inspections in China and India, nearly returning to 2019 inspection levels, but I urge you to do more to keep pace with the risk we are facing. Similarly, the FDA’s “green list” initiative, publishing facilities that have been “inspected or evaluated that appear to be in compliance with the FDA’s rigorous standards,”[4] is encouraging, but it can only be comprehensive if many more facilities are inspected. Increased vigilance and enforcement are essential to protect the public.

At the same time, I strongly support the Administration’s initiative to prioritize inspection, review, and approval of new U.S.-based pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, including the proposed FDA PreCheck program. This program should be expanded and expedited to include all new facilities and new lines for U.S.-based manufacturing. The FDA must be ready to support the surge in investment that domestic pharmaceutical companies are making.

I respectfully ask that you provide answers to the following questions by no later than November 7, 2025:

What steps is the FDA taking to conduct more inspections globally, and in particular in China and India?

Approximately, how many pharmaceutical manufacturing sites supplying the U.S. market are not listed in the CDER Site Catalog? Provide a breakdown by region (i.e., United States, China, India, Canada, Europe, Latin America, and the Rest of the World).

How many sites in each region did not submit a Drug Amount Report for calendar year 2024?

Among “No Application” sites listed in the CDER Catalog for fiscal year 2024, how many are producing any OTC monograph drugs, prescription drugs, homeopathic products, or other products? Provide a breakdown by region.

Why did Drug Amount Report submissions decline from calendar year 2023 to 2024? What steps is the FDA taking to improve rates of reporting and compliance?

How many, and what percentage, of Import Alerts, recalls, and warning letters were issued for “No Application” sites, and in which regions were they located?

According to the report, the FDA surveyed drug samples from domestic repackaging sites and concluded that their repackaging processes did not affect product quality. Have any surveys been conducted on non-domestic repackaging sites and if so, what are they indicating? If not, does the FDA plan to initiate such surveys?

Regarding the FDA’s Mutual Recognition Agreement with the European Union, how many inspections did the EU conduct during fiscal year 2024? How is the FDA reallocating the resources that were previously used for such European inspections?

Is the FDA utilizing Remote Regulatory Assessments or exercising its section 704(a)(4) authority in other ways as replacements for, or supplements to Drug Quality Assurance inspections? In fiscal year 2024, how many sites in which regions were inspected through section 704(a)(4) authority, and how many Import Alerts, recalls, or warning letters resulting from inspections using these authorities?

Do Drug Quality Assurance Inspections include Remote Regulatory Assessments, or are the two distinct?

Why did the FDA stop including average site inspection scores by region or country in its current report? Does the FDA still collect this scoring data? If so, please provide it.

Thank you for your leadership. I look forward to working with you to strengthen pharmaceutical manufacturing facility inspections.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-secures-key-legislation-in-senate-passed-national-defense-authorization-act/,Sen. Banks’ Secures Key Legislation in Senate-Passed National Defense Authorization Act,2025-10-10,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Yesterday, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after passage of the Senate version of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “In my first NDAA as a senator on the Armed Services Committee, I’m proud to have secured real wins that put America first and keep us ahead of our adversaries like Communist China. My amendments give American companies first access to advanced AI, protect our research from China, speed up military acquisition, and help military kids stay focused in school.”

Senator Banks’ Amendments in the National Defense Authorization Act:

GAIN AI Act: Creates an America-First Right of Refusal to ensure American customers are offered the opportunity to purchase advanced AI chips prior to any chip producer applying for a license to export those chips to a foreign adversary nation.

Defending Defense Research from CCP Espionage Act: Prohibits DoD-funded universities from entering into contracts with foreign adversaries like China and extends the ban on funding fundamental research involving such entities.

Buying Faster than the Enemy Act: A bill introduced by Sen. Banks that speeds up military acquisitions by streamlining procurement, reducing red tape, and prioritizing commercial solutions for both traditional and nontraditional contractors.

REFOCUS DoDEA Act: The REFOCUS DoDEA Act, a bipartisan bill introduced by Sen. Banks, requires the DoD to implement rules limiting cellphone use in classrooms for military children to reduce distractions, with exceptions for emergencies.

RESIDE Act: A bipartisan bill that would set aside funding within the Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) starting in 2026 for new pilot program to help communities turn abandoned or run-down buildings—like warehouses, factories, hotels, strip malls, and other unused spaces—into new housing.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-passes-indiana-ndaa-wins-secured-by-senator-jim-banks/,Senate Passes Indiana NDAA Wins Secured by Senator Jim Banks,2025-10-10,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today,Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after the Senate passed the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act:

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “I came to the Senate to deliver results for Indiana, and that’s exactly what this defense bill does. After fighting to secure key wins for our state, I’m glad to see it pass the Senate. These provisions strengthen our military, support Hoosier innovation, and give our servicemembers the tools they need to keep America safe.”

Provisions secured by Senator Banks in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act:

$145 Million in Military Construction Projects for Indiana

$72 million for initial funding the pyrotechnic facility at Crane Army Ammunition Activity (CAAA).

$55 million for the Indiana Army National Guard in Shelbyville for an Aircraft Maintenance Hangar.

$18 million for the Indiana Air National Guard in Fort Wayne for the design and construction of a new F-16 mission training facility.

Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs)

$250 million for Marine Corps procurement of the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) made in Mishawaka, Indiana and built using suppliers throughout the state.

Nuclear Sea-Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM-N)

$320 million for the new SLCM-N missile program, closely tied to NSWC Crane.

Sonobuoys

$250 million for the procurement of Navy sonobuoys, made in Columbia City.

Artificial Intelligence Research at Trine University

$5 million for the Artificial Intelligence and Maritime Maneuvering (AIMM) program that will test and prototype autonomous naval vessels.

Trusted and Assured Microelectronics

$512 million for secure DOD microelectronics, work heavily tied to NSWC Crane.

TITAN Tactical Intelligence Vehicles

$236 million for TITAN procurement, partially made in Mishawaka.

Abrams Upgrade Program

$740 million for tank modernization, using transmissions made in Indianapolis.

Muscatatuck Urban Training Center

Requires DOD to reassess how it handles cyber test and cyber training ranges, due to inconsistent past DOD funding for the cyber training range operated by the Indiana National Guard at Muscatatuck.

Golden Dome Satellites

Requires a plan to field enough Hypersonic and Ballistic Tracking Space Sensor (HBTSS) satellites, made in Fort Wayne, for full Golden Dome sensor coverage.

Shipbuilding Industrial Base Study

Requires DOD to analyze how to move production of ship components from our coasts to other parts of the country to include Indiana and the Midwest.

Background:

The National Defense Authorization Act is U.S. federal law that authorizes annual funding for the Department of Defense and sets policies and priorities.

Senator Banks served in the U.S. Navy Reserve and is an Afghanistan veteran. He previously served on the Armed Services Committee in the House of Representatives as the representative for Indiana’s third district.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-senator-banks-on-newsmax-schumer-shutdown-is-hurting-our-troops-families-at-home-small-businesses/,"ICYMI: Senator Banks on Newsmax: Schumer Shutdown is Hurting our Troops, Families at Home, Small Businesses",2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) joined Newsmax’s Wake Up America to discuss Day 9 of the Democrat-led government shutdown, warning that Chuck Schumer and Senate Democrats’ reckless actions are hurting America’s servicemembers, their families, and the small businesses that serve military communities across the nation.

Click the image above for the full discussion

Key Excerpts:

Sen Banks: “Chuck Schumer last night told reporters that this shutdown is going really well for Democrats, but how foolish of a statement to make like that when our troops are going to start missing paychecks on October 15th, just a few days away from now… It’s astonishing that how tone-deaf these Democrats are, that they think that the politics is good for Democrats, but it’s bad for the enlisted 23-year-old sailor who’s trying to feed his young babies and take care of his family… who’s already living paycheck to paycheck, who can’t afford to miss that paycheck on October 15th because Chuck Schumer shut down the government while playing politics. So, hopefully five Democrat senators will come to their senses today and join Republicans to pass the short-term, seven-week continuing resolution, reopen the government. That’s the right thing, we still have time to do it. Today’s that today’s the day to do it. I’m still hopeful that will happen.”

***

Sen Banks: “…It will hurt nobody more than our servicemembers and across the entire military who are serving all over the world, who put on the uniform. They’re gonna start missing paychecks and they’re gonna feel the pain from that. But you know who else will be impacted will be all those communities where there are military bases, all those small business owners, those restaurants and shops and small towns or wherever there is a military base in the United States of America and they rely on their customers who serve in the military. They’re going to be hurt too because of Chuck Schumer and these Democrats shutting down the government. Now, I get it. I hear from Hoosiers every day who understand that the government in Washington is way too big and they think about all of the wasteful bureaucracy and bureaucrats in Washington, D .C. … But quit playing politics with our troops, with our air traffic controllers, with our border patrol agents at the border who are keeping illegals and drugs out of our country. That’s what Chuck Schumer is doing. He’s directly hurting all of those people and their families, and it’s shameful, and they should put a stop to it today, come to their senses and vote for the CR.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-colleagues-urge-fda-to-continue-to-stand-for-life-reevaluate-abortion-drug-approval/,"Young, Colleagues Urge FDA to Continue to Stand for Life, Reevaluate Abortion Drug Approval",2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and nearly every Republican senator in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Dr. Martin Makary commending their recent statements on data discrepances surrounding abortion pill safety and a commitment to review the science. In light of these statements, the senators have urged HHS and FDA to review the decision to approve a generic version of mifepristone – currently the leading drug used to perform chemical abortions. Not only does this drug pose serious health risks to both unborn children and expecting mothers, but the decision also runs afoul of states with pro-life laws on the books.

The senators wrote, “We commend your recent statements acknowledging the data discrepancies surrounding abortion pill safety and your commitment to reviewing the science. We are also encouraged by HHS’s recent announcement that it will review prior Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) approvals given the recent studies raising concerns about the drug’s safety. Given this commitment, however, we are deeply concerned about the FDA’s approval of a new generic version of mifepristone. While we recognize the FDA’s statutory responsibility in evaluating drug applications, the timing of this approval appears inconsistent with the comprehensive safety reassessment your agencies have prioritized. Out of respect for this important review, and with full confidence in your dedication to protecting women’s health, states’ rights, and unborn life, we urge you to take decisive action to reevaluate whether this generic version of mifepristone is suitable to enter the market.”

The senators continued, “Unrestricted access to abortion pills is systematically undermining states’ rights and violating pro-life state laws. Every month, thousands of abortion drugs are shipped into states that have otherwise limited access to abortion after Dobbs, degrading pro-life laws at the state level across the country.”

In addition to U.S. Senators Young and Graham, the letter was signed by Jim Banks (R-Ind.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), John Curtis (R-Utah), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Charles Grassley (R-Iowa), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), John Kennedy (R-La.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), David McCormick (R-Pa.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), James Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Dan Sullivan (R-Ala.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-kaine-applaud-passage-of-their-bill-to-repeal-1991-2002-aumfs-formally-end-gulf-iraq-wars/,"Young, Kaine Applaud Passage of Their Bill to Repeal 1991 & 2002 AUMFs, Formally End Gulf & Iraq Wars",2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) applauded Senate passage of their bipartisan bill to repeal the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs) against Iraq. The legislation passed as an amendment to the Senate’s version of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act. The House’s version of the FY26 NDAA also included the legislation. The FY26 NDAA now heads to conference committee.

“The Gulf War started 34 years ago, and the Iraq War began 22 years ago. These conflicts have long ended, and today Iraq is a partner, not an adversary. It’s time for our law to reflect that reality,” said Senator Young. “Tonight’s Senate vote is a step in the right direction, and I will continue pushing to repeal these outdated AUMFs and close the book on these forever wars.”

“The 1991 and 2002 AUMFs are obsolete. Iraq is now a strategic partner, and leaving these AUMFs on the books runs the risk of potential misuse by presidents of both parties,” said Senator Kaine. “Today’s vote is significant because Congress is finally reaffirming its solemn constitutional responsibility in decisions as important as whether or not we should send servicemembers into harm’s way. I’m grateful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle who voted to repeal these AUMFs against Iraq. I look forward to working with Senate and House leadership to ensure that this important provision remains in the final legislation that goes to President Trump’s desk for his signature, so the United States can finally end this endless war.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-statement-on-gaza-peace-plan-announcement/,Young Statement on Gaza Peace Plan Announcement,2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young released the following statement on the Gaza peace plan announcement:

“The successful negotiation of a Gaza peace plan is a major diplomatic accomplishment and potentially a historic breakthrough. I want to congratulate President Trump, Secretary Rubio, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and the Trump Administration on their successful and transformational efforts. I am grateful for their work in pursuit of peace in the Middle East, and we pray that this agreement holds.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-statement-on-caribbean-war-powers-resolution/,Young Statement on Caribbean War Powers Resolution,2025-10-08,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) released the following statement regarding tonight’s Senate vote on the Caribbean War Powers Resolution:

“This so-called Caribbean war powers resolution, as currently written, extends beyond the Caribbean and could potentially prohibit the use of force against radical Islamist terrorist groups in the Middle East. Those issues are not under debate right now, and I cannot support a resolution that potentially handcuffs our ability to protect American service members in the Middle East.

“Despite my opposition to this resolution, I am highly concerned about the legality of recent strikes in the Caribbean and the trajectory of military operations without congressional approval or debate and the support of the American people. While the Constitution grants Article II authorities to the executive branch to defend against imminent threats, Congress alone is entrusted with decisions of war and peace.

“We also must think through potential side effects if these actions are prolonged, such as the diversion of resources from the most important threat of our time, the People’s Republic of China. Others have noted that, if one thinks of the ‘War on Drugs’ as a real war, it could conceivably lead to an increasingly militarized ‘War on Drugs’ inside the United States. The American people, through their representatives, deserve more information about the threats we face in the region and the role of America’s military going forward.

“Secretaries Hegseth and Rubio have committed to meeting with me to discuss these concerns in the coming days. Additionally, I have requested a hearing be held on this situation by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The Administration should adhere to the Constitution and keep the people’s representatives informed on this critical national security issue.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-cruz-cantwell-peters-introduce-the-pipeline-safety-act-of-2025/,"Young, Cruz, Cantwell, Peters Introduce the PIPELINE Safety Act of 2025",2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), and U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-Mich.) in introducing the Pipeline Integrity, Protection, and Enhancement for Leveraging Investments in the Nation’s Energy to assure Safety, or PIPELINE Safety Act of 2025. The bipartisan pipeline safety reauthorization bill will help ensure the continued safe and secure movement of American energy.

The bill reauthorizes the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration’s (PHMSA) pipeline safety program for five years and authorizes $1.65 billion in funding. The legislation includes key measures to reduce pipeline-related fatalities and injuries, advance the development of new pipeline safety technologies, enhance safety inspections and enforcement efforts, and promote education for local communities on PHMSA’s work.

The PIPELINE Safety Act of 2025 also requires PHMSA to update parts of its regulations to account for new pipeline materials, gases, and operating practices. The bill also takes precautions against cybersecurity vulnerabilities that threaten America’s energy infrastructure integrity.

“America’s energy independence requires a strong and secure pipeline infrastructure,” said Senator Young. “The PIPES Act will reauthorize the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration to ensure our pipeline ecosystem is safe and efficient, allowing the U.S. to meet our energy demands of today and tomorrow.”

“Americans have made it clear that they need safe, affordable, and dependable energy. PHMSA has no small task, overseeing over 3 million miles of oil, natural gas, and other hazardous liquid pipelines across this country, a significant portion of which are located in Texas. As the energy capital of the world, millions of jobs in Texas depend on the safe and reliable movement of energy,” said Senator Cruz. “The PIPELINE Safety Act of 2025 ensures oversight of the pipeline system is governed by appropriate, data-driven, and cost-effective standards. I am proud to partner with Ranking Member Cantwell and Senators Young and Peters on this bipartisan effort and hope to see it become law.”

“We just had the deadliest two-year period in pipeline safety since 2015. Clearly, we need a more proactive approach to the safe transportation of our nation’s energy products, including the 46,000 miles of pipeline in Washington state,” said Senator Cantwell. “This bill does just that by increasing civil penalties by 50 percent, eliminating gaps in hydrogen and carbon dioxide pipeline requirements, and requiring permanent cybersecurity standards for pipeline operators.”

“Pipeline safety is critical to protecting both our environment and our economy,”said Senator Peters. “That’s why I’m proud to introduce this commonsense, bipartisan bill to strengthen the safety and security of our nation’s pipelines and help prevent accidents before they occur.”

Background:

PHMSA is responsible for overseeing the safe transportation of oil, natural gas, and other hazardous liquids by pipelines across the United States. Congress last reauthorized PHMSA’s pipeline safety programs through fiscal year 2023, meaning PHMSA’s pipeline safety programs have been without an authorization for two years. The PIPELINE Safety Act of 2025 delivers critical updates to maintain safety and reliability in America’s energy infrastructure.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-resolution-recognizing-national-4-h-week-passes-senate/,Young Resolution Recognizing National 4-H Week Passes Senate,2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Last night, the United States Senate unanimously passed a bipartisan resolution introduced by Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and John Boozman (R-Ark.), along with over thirty Senate colleagues, to designate October 5-11, 2025, as “National 4-H Week.”

4–H is the largest youth development organization in the United States, supporting nearly 6,000,000 young people nationwide. This resolution celebrates the work of 4-H in developing engaged, healthy, and productive citizens.

“4-H programs teach real-world skills and develop the next generation of ag leaders. I’m glad to support this resolution establishing National 4-H Week and recognizing the life-changing opportunities 4-H provides young Hoosiers,” said Senator Young.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-statement-on-anniversary-of-hamas-terrorist-attack-in-israel/,Young Statement on Anniversary of Hamas Terrorist Attack in Israel,2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young released the following statementregarding the second anniversary of the terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel:

“Today marks two years since Hamas terrorists crossed the Israeli border and carried out the deadliest attack on the Jewish community since the Holocaust, killing innocent civilians – including Americans. I continue to stand with the Jewish people, condemn all forms of antisemitism, and call for the safe release of remaining hostages from Gaza.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-calls-for-investigation-into-2020-census-miscounts-and-data-integrity/,Senator Banks Calls for Investigation into 2020 Census Miscounts and Data Integrity,2025-10-06,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) sent a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick urging the Department of Commerce and the U.S. Census Bureau to investigate and correct significant errors from the 2020 Census that may have improperly shifted congressional representation and Electoral College votes to Democrats and illegal aliens.

Senator Banks warned that, among other problems, the Biden administration used a controversial statistical method called differential privacy—which intentionally scrambles population data—to interpret and publicize Census data. The 2020 Census also counted illegal aliens without requesting their citizenship status.

In part, the letter reads:

“As problematic as the 2020 Census was for apportionment, it may have been disastrous for redistricting. Differential privacy alters the total population of individual voting districts, meaning that any voting district drawn since the 2020 census may in fact have been based on false data and may even be unlawful. The worst part is that we don’t know how many voting districts are problematic. A file containing the original, unaltered census data exists, but only a few bureaucrats have access to it.”

“It is crucial that the Census Bureau republishes the 2020 Census using the raw data so that states have a clear picture of their voting districts. The Census Bureau must also use a methodology for the 2030 census that accurately counts state and voting district populations and that does not disproportionately benefit one political party.”

Click here to see the full letter or see text below:

Dear Secretary Lutnick:

I urge you to investigate and correct errors from the 2020 Census that handed disproportionate political power to Democrats and illegal aliens. The Census Bureau adopted a new and opaque methodology called differential privacy that, by design, scrambles the populations of states and voting districts. As prepared by the Biden administration, the 2020 Census reports miscounted the population of fourteen states,[1]wrongly allocating six congressional seats and Electoral College votes to the Democrat party. The reports may have also miscounted the population in a number of voting districts. And the reports definitively included illegal aliens without tracking those aliens’ citizenship status. If left uncorrected, these errors will continue diluting the political power of American citizens.

Census data plays a crucial role in allocating political representation and government funding. Under the Constitution, each state gets Congressional representatives—and Electoral College votes—based on “the whole number of persons” within the state.[2] The number of persons is in turn established by a constitutionally-mandated decennial census.[3] Federal agencies rely on census data to allocate billions of dollars in federal funding, much of which hinges on population. And states use census data to draw congressional and voting districts, which the Supreme Court has held must be equal within a state.[4]

The integrity of the American political system depends on knowing exactly how many people are in each state—and each voting district. In the past, the Census Bureau has gotten those numbers right without statistically significant errors.[5]

But in 2020, the Census Bureau made widespread errors. These errors happened for various reasons—but in part because the Census Bureau published census data using a new methodology that intentionally miscounted the population and masked demographic data.[6] The methodology, differential privacy, injects noise into individual voting districts (called blocks for census purposes). Differential privacy achieves this by randomly changing some correct demographic data into false demographic data in order to make it impossible to guess individual residents’ identities within a census block. Bureaucrats have been architecting differential privacy for over twenty years, and the Biden administration used the methodology when interpreting and publishing data from the 2020 Census.

Differential privacy is opaque and liable to mistaken count totals. Sure enough, the 2020 Census overcounted the population in eight states and undercounted it in six.[7] The most extreme undercount was Arkansas, at 5.04%, and the largest overcount was Hawaii, at 6.79%. As a result of these errors, Democrats gained at least six net congressional seats—and Electoral College votes.[8]

As problematic as the 2020 Census was for apportionment, it may have been disastrous for redistricting. Differential privacy alters the total population of individual voting districts, meaning that any voting district drawn since the 2020 census may in fact have been based on false data and may even be unlawful. The worst part is that we don’t know how many voting districts are problematic. A file containing the original, unaltered census data exists, but only a few bureaucrats have access to it.

It is crucial that the Census Bureau republishes the 2020 Census using the raw data so that states have a clear picture of their voting districts. The Census Bureau must also use a methodology for the 2030 Census that accurately counts state and voting district populations and that does not disproportionately benefit one political party.

Finally, it is crucial that the Census Bureau take steps to ensure that the 2030 Census does not allocate political power to illegal aliens. Counting illegal aliens as part of a state’s population means that states with more illegal aliens get more government funding and more voting power. States with sanctuary cities benefit the most.

Although the Supreme Court stopped the Trump administration from requesting citizenship and excluding illegal aliens from the 2020 Census, that decision was purely procedural and did not address whether individuals who are present in the country unlawfully may be excluded from the census.[9] There is a credible argument that the framers of the Constitution designed the census to cover lawful inhabitants and not those who are present illegally.[10] At the very least, the American people and their representatives deserve to know how many people are here unlawfully. The 2030 Census must therefore request citizenship status—and ensure that differential privacy is not used to mask citizenship data.

To this end, I ask that you respond to the following questions by November 6, 2025:

Does the Census Bureau intend to republish the 2020 Census results using unaltered data so states can fully understand apportionment and districting errors?

What measures are the Department of Commerce and the Census Bureau taking to correct the errors in the 2020 Census that led to the improper apportionment of political power across the states?

Does the Census Bureau intend to abandon the “differential privacy” methodology for the 2030 census and return to a method that presents accurate counts of state and voting district populations?

Does the Census Bureau intend to request the citizenship status of illegal aliens in the 2030 Census?

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-colleagues-call-on-epa-to-stand-with-american-farmers-and-prioritize-domestic-feedstocks/,"Young, Colleagues Call on EPA to Stand with American Farmers and Prioritize Domestic Feedstocks",2025-10-03,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined colleagues in urging the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to finalize a rule on imported Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs) and hold firm on the proposed biomass-based diesel volumes.

In the letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, the members state such measures would ensure the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) continues to strengthen American energy security and support both American farmers and domestic renewable fuel producers.

“At a time when many farmers are struggling to break even, all federal biofuels policies should prioritize domestic agriculture and biofuel production, not foreign fuels made from foreign feedstocks. Additionally, while farmers face the uncertainty of foreign market demand, the Import RIN reduction would provide essential support for the farm economy so farmers could sell more products domestically,” the members wrote.

In June, the EPA proposed record biomass-based diesel (BBD) volumes in its Set 2 proposal and included a 50% reduction in RINs for imported renewable fuels and fuels made from foreign feedstocks (Import RIN reduction).

“The Import RIN reduction also aligns with congressional intent under the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, which prioritizes domestic feedstocks. Aligning EPA’s policy with this standard helps level the playing field for domestic feedstock and biofuel producers with imported feedstocks, such as Brazilian tallow and so called ‘used cooking oil’ from China, which would otherwise directly undercut U.S. energy, agriculture and manufacturing,” the members continued.

The EPA’s own analysis highlights the positive impact of the Import RIN proposal, saying it will create jobs and generate economic growth in farming, transportation and manufacturing – particularly in rural communities.

In addition to Senator Young, U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Michael Rounds (R-S.D.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) signed the letter.

34 members of the House of Representatives, including Representatives Jim Baird (R-IN-04), Erin Houchin (R-IN-09), Mark Messmer (R-IN-08), and Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02), also signed the letter.

Full text of the letter can be found here and below.

Dear Administrator Zeldin,

We thank the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for proposing record biomass-based diesel (BBD) volumes in the Set 2 proposal and for including a 50 percent reduction in Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs) for imported renewable fuels and fuels made from foreign feedstocks (Import RIN reduction). The combination of the strong BBD volumes coupled with prioritizing U.S. feedstocks represents a commonsense approach that puts American farmers first, strengthens domestic biofuel markets, and delivers tangible economic benefits to rural communities.

Soybean oil may only represent 20 percent of the bean, but it accounts for more than half of its value in the U.S. market, and about half of that oil is used to make advanced biofuels such as biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel. That means roughly a quarter of every bushel’s value processed here in the U.S. is directly tied to biofuel demand. At a time when many farmers are struggling to break even, all federal biofuels policies should prioritize domestic agriculture and biofuel production, not foreign fuels made from foreign feedstocks. Additionally, while farmers face the uncertainty of foreign market demand, the Import RIN reduction would provide essential support for the farm economy so farmers could sell more products domestically.

The EPA’s own analysis highlights the positive impact of the Import RIN proposal: it will create jobs and generate economic growth in farming, transportation, and manufacturing, particularly in rural communities where oilseed processing facilities are located. This is exactly the outcome Congress intended when it created and expanded the Renewable Fuel Standard.

The Import RIN reduction also aligns with Congressional intent under the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, which prioritizes domestic feedstocks. Aligning EPA’s policy with this standard helps level the playing field for domestic feedstock and biofuel producers with imported feedstocks, such as Brazilian tallow and so called “used cooking oil” from China, which would otherwise directly undercut U.S. energy, agriculture, and manufacturing.

For these reasons, we urge EPA to finalize the Import RIN reduction as proposed and to hold firm on the biomass-based diesel volumes in the rule. Finalizing the proposal would ensure the Renewable Fuel Standard delivers on its promises of strengthening U.S. energy security, supporting American farmers and domestic renewable fuel producers, and keeping investment and jobs here at home.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-discusses-federal-government-shutdown-on-bloomberg-tv/,Young Discusses Federal Government Shutdown on Bloomberg TV,2025-10-03,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"**Click here or above to watch Senator Young’s interview.**

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined Bloomberg TV to discuss the ongoing federal government shutdown.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-joins-bill-to-improve-lithium-ion-battery-safety/,Young Joins Bill to Improve Lithium-Ion Battery Safety,2025-10-02,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) recently cosponsored theSetting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act, legislation that would require the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to publish a final consumer product safety standard for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes and other micromobility devices to protect against the risk of fires caused by such batteries.

“It is critical that Americans can trust that the batteries powering their devices are safe,” said Senator Young. “This legislation will establish clear safety standards, reduce the risk of fires, and protect families from preventable tragedies.”

The Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act is supported bythe International Association of Fire Chiefs.

“I commend Senator Young for his leadership in cosponsoring S. 389, the Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act. This bill would codify federal safety standards for lithium-ion batteries in micromobility devices. Communities across Indiana face the risk of fires from e-bikes and other e-mobility devices. It is my hope that the full Senate swiftly passes this legislation so we can begin to turn the tide and make these devices fire-safe,” said Chief Ernest Malone, Fire Chief of the Indianapolis Fire Department and Second Vice President of the International Association of Fire Chiefs.

U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) originally introduced the legislation in February. In addition to Senator Young, U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-N.J.) co-sponsored the legislation this week.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-pushes-to-secure-unique-zip-codes-for-indiana-communities/,Sen. Banks Pushes to Secure Unique ZIP Codes for Indiana Communities,2025-10-01,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – This week, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced the bipartisan Zip Code Bill. This bill would require the Postal Service to give certain communities in Indiana their own ZIP Codes, making mail delivery clearer and more efficient.

Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Col.) are original cosponsors of the legislation.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “I’ve heard from too many Hoosiers frustrated by mail delays and mix-ups. Our growing communities deserve their own ZIP Codes so families and businesses can count on reliable service.”

Mayor of Carmel, Sue Finkam: “Having multiple zip codes in our area creates confusion for residents and homebuyers. For example, people purchase homes with Carmel addresses, assuming they are within the Carmel city limits and school district, only to later learn that’s not the case. I support an effort to establish a single zip code that reflects our true community boundaries, protects families from this kind of confusion, and fosters one identity.”

Mayor of Lawrence, Deb Whitfield: “Having our own Zip Code is more than just a number on mail. It’s about identity, efficiency, and opportunity. It gives our city the recognition it deserves, improves services for residents and businesses, and strengthens the sense of community we all share. Thus, this step ensures that the people of Lawrence, that I serve are better connected, better represented, and better supported.”

Mayor of Noblesville, Chris Jensen: “I support legislation for USPS to assign single, unique ZIP Codes for communities. This will eliminate longstanding address confusion for businesses, residents, and newcomers by saving time, reducing errors, and improving local services. The clear boundaries also help ensure tax collections are accurately divided among the communities they serve, I applaud Senator Banks for introducing a bill to give cities a dedicated zip code, provide clarity, and have a lasting impact on residents and business owners.”

Mayor of Westfield, Scott Willis: “We fully support this bill, as a single zip code offers a number of advantages for Westfield. It enhances clarity in identifying business and residential locations, eliminates confusion caused by multiple zip codes, and simplifies addressing for both mail delivery and emergency response. One zip code improves the accuracy of data and analytics, especially with demographics and marketing, by not being fragmented.”

Mayor of Zionsville, John Stehr: “We have people who live in Zionsville, but they have a Brownsburg, Lebanon or Whitestown ZIP code, so this bill will help foster community by reflecting our true boundaries, it will also simplify services and make emergency response more efficient by eliminating confusion over who has jurisdiction for a particular location.”

Read the full text of the bill here.

Key Provision of the Zip Code Bill:

Direct the United States Postal Service to designate single, unique ZIP Codes for the following communities in Indiana:

Carmel, Indiana

Lawrence, Indiana

Noblesville, Indiana

Westfield, Indiana

Zionsville, Indiana

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-statement-on-federal-government-shutdown/,Young Statement on Federal Government Shutdown,2025-10-01,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) issued the following statement after Senate Democrats again blocked the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, a bill to extend current spending levels for seven weeks and avoid a government shutdown:

“The overwhelming majority of Americans do not want a government shutdown. I have repeatedly voted for a clean funding bill that would keep the federal government open and allow the Senate to continue debating other issues. I urge Senate Democrats to abandon this manufactured crisis and vote to reopen the government.”

The current federal government shutdown began at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, the first lapse in funding in nearly seven years.

The Senate will next meet on Friday.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-introduces-forced-abortion-prevention-and-accountability-act/,Sen. Banks Introduces Forced Abortion Prevention and Accountability Act,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced the Forced Abortion Prevention and Accountability Act. The bill seeks to establish federal criminal penalties for individuals who deliberately give a woman an abortion-inducing drug without first obtaining her consent.

Senators Ted Budd (R- N.C.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.) John Cornyn (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), James Risch (R-Idaho), and Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) are cosponsors of the bill.

Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.) “No woman should ever be tricked or forced into ending the life of her child. This bill is simple: it holds abusers accountable and protects mothers and their babies.”

Key Provisions of the Forced Abortion Prevention and Accountability Act are:

Establishes federal penalties for the knowing and intentional administration of abortion-inducing drugs without a woman’s informed consent.

If the non-consensual administration results in serious bodily injury, the offender will face enhanced dual penalties.

The bill also penalizes those who attempt or conspire to commit the offense.

Penalties apply to anyone who sells, ships, mails, or gives abortion-inducing drugs without taking reasonable measures to verify the recipient is a pregnant woman seeking an abortion.

This bill is endorsed by Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, Students for Life, American Principles Project, Concerned Women for America LAC, and National Right to Life Committee.

Full text of the bill can be found here.

Background:

Unsupportive partners, abusers, and traffickers have taken advantage of the deregulated safety protocols surrounding abortion pills to harm women and their unborn children. Since there are no checks on who is ordering the drugs on whether the individual is pregnant and accurately dated, abusers have purchased these drugs and given them to expecting mothers without their consent.

In a reported case in Texas, Justin Banta was charged with capital murder and tempering evidence for ordering abortion pills online and crushing the pills into his girlfriend’s coffee after her six-week ultrasound showing a healthy baby.

Unfortunately, not every abuser is charged with capital murder. Last year, David Coots was sentenced to only one year and one day in prison for assault, third degree rape, and forcing misoprostol into a woman, resulting in the loss of her baby.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-launches-new-website/,Sen. Banks Launches New Website,2025-09-29,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) announced the launch of his redesigned official website aimed at improving communication and accessibility for constituents.

The updated site features streamlined navigation and enhanced resources to better serve the people of Indiana.

Click here or the picture above to visit the new website.

Key Features of the New Website:

Request tours of the U.S. Capitol, White House, and Bureau of Engraving and Printing

Schedule meetings with Senator Banks or his staff

Share your opinions directly with Senator Banks

Sign up to receive the latest newsletters and updates

Get assistance navigating federal agencies and services

Apply for an internship in the D.C. and Indiana offices

Learn about and apply to our United States Service Academies

Search Senator Banks’ legislative history including votes and bill introductions

Connect with Senator Banks on social media

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-urges-supreme-court-to-protect-title-ix-provisions/,Senator Banks Urges Supreme Court to Protect Title IX Provisions,2025-09-26,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Last week, Senator Banks (R-Ind.) co-led a bicameral Supreme Court amicus brief in the Little v. Hecox (Idaho) and State of West Virginia v. B.P.J. regarding Title IX protections. Senator James Risch (R-Idaho.) is leading in the Senate and Rep. Riley Moore (R-WV-02) is leading in the House.

Background:

Little v. Hecox is set to review Idaho’s Fairness in Women’s Sports Act, which puts a ban on biological males from participating in female athletics. Passed in 2020, Idaho was the first state in the nation to impose such law. The Ninth Circuit held that the law violated the Equal Protection Act.

West Virginia v. B.P.J. will review West Virginia’s Save Women’s Sports Act, which prevents biological males from participating on girls’ sports teams. The Fourth Circuit blocked the law for allegedly violating Title IX.

Argument:

Title IX’s prohibition of discrimination “on the basis of sex” refers exclusively to biological sex, not gender identity, as understood when the law was enacted in 1972. Any expansion of Title IX must come from Congress, not the courts.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Title IX was meant to protect opportunities for women and girls, and I’m asking the Supreme Court to keep it that way for my daughters and for every girl in Indiana.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-indiana-delegation-members-advocate-for-funding-for-rural-healthcare/,"Young, Indiana Delegation Members Advocate for Funding for Rural Healthcare",2025-09-26,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined U.S. Representative Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02) and a majority of the Indiana delegation in sending a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Mehmet Oz urging HHS to allocate the highest possible level of funding from the newly established Rural Health Transformation Program to Indiana.

Congress recently appropriated $50 billion to strengthen healthcare in rural communities nationwide. The letter emphasizes that this investment is vital to supporting Indiana’s rural hospitals, community health centers, and healthcare providers, which serve more than 1.49 million Hoosiers living in rural communities across the state.

“Indiana is home to 42 rural counties, and our rural communities play a vital role in feeding the nation and supporting our economy,” the members wrote. “Yet, they face some of the most significant healthcare challenges in the country. Allocating the highest possible funding to Indiana will help us protect access to care, keep hospital doors open, and ensure healthier futures for Hoosiers.”

The letter outlines the pressing challenges Indiana’s rural healthcare facilities have faced over the past few decades, including:

Hospital closures and service reductions: Five of Indiana’s 52 rural hospitals are at risk of closing, and 13 have already cut back services.

Provider shortages: 71 of Indiana’s 92 counties are designated health professional shortage areas.

Limited maternal care: More than 20 rural counties lack a labor and delivery provider, placing expectant mothers and babies at serious risk.

Emergency response gaps: Half of Indiana’s counties are considered ambulance deserts, with average trauma response times of 17–30 minutes compared to just 3 minutes in urban areas.

The letter also highlights that these shortages and access barriers threaten long-term health outcomes for rural Hoosiers, making federal support through the Rural Health Transformation Program critical.

“Indiana’s rural healthcare providers work tirelessly with limited resources to serve their communities,” the members continued. “Federal investment is essential to strengthening these systems, expanding preventative care, and ensuring every Hoosier has access to the services they need.”

The lawmakers conclude the letter by affirming their commitment to working with federal leaders to secure maximum funding for Indiana under this program.

Senator Young and Representative Yakym were joined by U.S. Senator Jim Banks and U.S. Representatives Frank Mrvan (D-IN-01), Marlin Stutzman (R-IN-03), Victoria Spartz (R-IN-05), Jefferson Shreve (R-IN-06), Andre Carson (D-IN-07), Mark Messmer (R-IN-08), and Erin Houchin (R-IN-09) in sending the letter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-introduces-resolution-to-recognize-september-as-dystonia-awareness-month/,Sen. Banks Introduces Resolution to Recognize September as “Dystonia Awareness Month”,2025-09-25,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — This month, Senators Jim Banks (R-Ind.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) introduced a bipartisan resolution in the United States Senate to express support for the designation of September as “Dystonia Awareness Month.”This designation aims to raise public awareness and understanding of dystonia, a complex and often misdiagnosed neurological movement disorder.

Dystonia is characterized by involuntary, excessive muscle contractions, which can cause abnormal movements and postures. It affects an estimated 250,000 to 300,000 Americans, although experts believe the true number may be significantly higher due to widespread underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Over 250,000 Americans live with dystonia and our servicemembers have an increased risk of developing this condition. Too often, if a condition doesn’t affect millions of people, it gets overlooked and can be frequently misdiagnosed. That is why awareness is so important.”

Read the entire resolution here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-applauds-usa-gymnastics-selection-of-noblesville-indiana-for-new-national-headquarters/,"Senator Banks Applauds USA Gymnastics Selection of Noblesville, Indiana for New National Headquarters",2025-09-24,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Noblesville, Ind. – Yesterday,USA Gymnastics announced that Noblesville, Indiana has been selected as the site for its new Training & Wellness Center, which will also serve as the organization’s national headquarters and office facilities.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “I’m excited to welcome USA Gymnastics to Noblesville. This new facility will give athletes the support they need, create jobs here at home, and put Indiana on the map as a leader in sports and community development. Big thanks and congratulations to Mayor Chris Jensen for his hard work in making this happen.”

Last week, Senator Banks met in Washington, D.C., with Dr. Rebecca Holwerda, Chief Operating Officer of USA Gymnastics, to discuss the opening of the new facility and the substantial benefits it will provide both to the state of Indiana and to USA Gymnastics.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-young-featured-in-report-on-cargo-theft/,VIDEO: Young Featured in Report on Cargo Theft,2025-09-24,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"**Click here or above to watch the full report.**

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.), Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Freight, Pipelines, and Safety, was recently featured in an Investigate TV report on the impact of cargo theft.

The report examines the recent surge in cargo theft across the nation and its significant impact on America’s supply chains. It also highlights how Congress is partnering with industry leaders and government agencies to address this issue, including through the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act.

Senator Young joined Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) in introducing this legislation, which would establish a coordinated multi-agency response and provide new tools to address evolving trends in organized retail and cargo theft.

Young convened a subcommittee hearing in February titled “Grand Theft Cargo: Examining the Costly Threat to Consumers and the U.S. Supply Chain.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-tours-corn-island-shipyard-in-southwest-indiana-as-ships-for-america-act-support-grows/,Young Tours Corn Island Shipyard in Southwest Indiana as SHIPS for America Act Support Grows,2025-09-23,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"INDIANAPOLIS – On Monday, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) toured Corn Island Shipyard in Spencer County to learn more about its operations, Hoosier workforce, and manufacturing of custom barges.

Earlier this year, Young and Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) introduced the Shipbuilding and Harbor Infrastructure for Prosperity and Security (SHIPS) for America Act, comprehensive legislation to revitalize the United States shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries.

“Passing our SHIPS for America Act will increase opportunities for American shipyards like Corn Island,” said Young. “Shipbuilding is a national security priority and a stopgap against foreign threats and coercion. Our bill will revitalize the U.S. maritime industry, grow our shipbuilding capacity, rebuild America’s shipyard industrial base, and support nationwide workforce development in this industry. This legislation is critical to keeping pace with China.”

Five U.S. unions called on Congress to pass the SHIPS for America Act in a letter released today, adding to the growing list of supportive organizations.

Photos from the visit:

Senator Young tours Corn Island Shipyard

Senator Young tours Corn Island Shipyard",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z