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.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-senator-peters-reflects-on-proudest-accomplishments-for-michigan-takeaways-from-congress-during-detroit-economic-club-exit-interview,"ICYMI: Senator Peters Reflects on Proudest Accomplishments for Michigan, Takeaways from Congress During Detroit Economic Club Exit Interview",2026-09-30,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"DETROIT, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) reflected on his proudest accomplishments and takeaways from his 18 years in Congress during an “Exit Interview” with the Detroit Economic Club. In a conversation moderated by Local 4 Detroit’s Jason Colthrup, Peters highlighted his long-term efforts to support Michigan’s auto industry, protect the Great Lakes, and secure long-term missions at Selfridge Air National Guard Base.

Below are highlights from Peters’ remarks:

Advocating for the 2009 Auto Rescue, Making the Case to Congress:

“We had a lot of members of Congress that were around the country that were saying, ‘Yeah, let them go bankrupt. You know, that’s okay. That’s capitalism, if they go under, that’s it.’ And I’m like, ‘No, you can’t have a manufacturing sector in America if you don’t have an auto sector that’s healthy and vibrant. This impacts everybody,’ and we made the case aggressively.”

Securing a Strong Future for Selfridge Air National Guard Base, including:

Delivering a New Squadron of KC-46A Refueling Tankers: “I blocked the Air Force Secretary from getting confirmed under the Biden Administration. He wasn’t going to get confirmed until I got some sort of commitment. And we worked together, and our delegation worked together, and then they said, ‘Well, we’ll get you these tankers.’”

Establishing the Northern Border Mission Center: “Now, we have this mission center which coordinates all of the border security from Maine to Washington state, all of the northern border, and it’s going to happen at Selfridge, which gives it a major Department of Homeland Security (DHS) mission.”

To watch Peters’ full interview at the Detroit Economic Club, click here.

Securing Investments for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, Protecting Our Waterways:

“The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which was passed in [20]10, has been a major game changer. Billions of dollars have been going in, if you just think of the Detroit River area and up into Port Huron, I think $250 million to make sure we’re cleaning up the old toxic sites that were here from our industrial heritage. The watersheds are clean. And that happens all around the Great Lakes Basin. That has been major.”

Creating the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Center of Expertise in Michigan:

“It now has state of the art equipment there to train crews on how to clean up oil spills, so we don’t have to wait two weeks for a submersible. It can be there like in an hour and a half, it’s very close. We’re gaining the expertise there to make sure we’re cleaning up oil spills not just in the Great Lakes, but all of freshwater.”

The Detroit Economic Club (DEC) was formed in 1934 as a non-partisan, non-profit organization that promotes discussion and debate of important business, government, and social issues.

When the 2008 financial crisis rocked Michigan’s automotive industry, Peters was instrumental in advocating for the rescue of the Big Three automakers, which saved more than 1 million automotive industry jobs in Michigan and across the country.

Peters served in the U.S. Navy Reserve for 12 years, rising to the rank of Lt. Commander. During that time, he drilled at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County. As a U.S. Senator, Peters has worked tirelessly to secure the future of Selfridge as Michigan’s premier military installation to maintain its role in our nation’s defense and as an economic driver for the state. He led the Michigan delegation to secure a full squadron of next generation KC-46A aircraft tankers, which will operate at Selfridge for the next 50 years. He also established and secured funding for the Northern Border Mission Center to be located at Selfridge.

Throughout his career in public service, Peters has been a champion for protecting the Great Lakes and Michigan’s drinking water from threats like oil spills and PFAS contamination. Peters’ efforts have helped protect our most precious source of drinking water and an economic engine for our state from the devastating consequences of pollution. He authored a provision signed into law to create the U.S. Coast Guard National Center of Expertise (NCOE) for the Great Lakes, and secured $1.5 million to launch the center. Headquartered at Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie and the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory in Ann Arbor, the Great Lakes National Center of Expertise will examine the impacts of oil spills in freshwater environments and help develop effective responses that currently don’t exist.

###",1,2026-10-01T11:23:28Z,2026-10-01T11:25:15Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/30/icymi-slotkin-delivers-speech-at-carnegie-institution-on-defending-democracy/,ICYMI: Slotkin Delivers Speech at Carnegie Institution on Defending Democracy,2026-09-30,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Wednesday, September 30, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) delivered remarks at Carnegie Endowment for International Peace on her takeaways from a recent trip to Hungary and Poland, and how we can use lessons from those countries to protect democracy here in the United States. This follows a speech last year to the Brookings Institution, where Slotkin warned of President Trump’s authoritarian playbook.

Following her remarks, she joined Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and staff writer for The Atlantic, for a Q&A discussion on lessons learned from global pro-democracy efforts and the future of American democracy.

Slotkin’s remarks as prepared

Watch full speech

READ SOME KEY EXCERPTS BELOW.

Two visions for America:

But what this last year has clarified for me is that, as leaders, we have a responsibility not to just ‘admire the problem’, as we say at the Pentagon. The American people are looking for a path through the dark tunnel and into the light.

President Trump thinks America is unremarkable, mediocre, and in decline. He believes we are not exceptional in our role in the world, and we never were – same as China or Russia.

The America I know is filled with big-hearted people, who care about their neighbors and their community, and certainly the future for their kids. A society, stitched together by shared values of fairness and boundless optimism. America is a place where we do big things, and a shared set of laws allows anyone from anywhere to succeed.

Toplines from Hungary:

Just five months ago, a pro-democracy movement in Hungary achieved what many thought was impossible: they beat their authoritarian leader, Viktor Orban, ending his 16-year regime. Orban was elected in 2010 on the promise that he would put more money in the pockets of average Hungarians.7

While Hungary is not an apples-to-apples comparison to America, the trip helped crystallize some of the very trends we’re seeing here in our country…

Authoritarians talk a big game about bringing down costs, but once in power, they enrich themselves at the expense of their own voters. They just can’t help themselves. Eventually, that corruption trickles down to the average person.

At this point, Donald Trump is on track to be the most successful corrupt leader in the world’s history. Best estimates are that he and his family have increased their net worth by more than 3.5 billion dollars.

At the CIA, I was an Iraq specialist. I spent a lot of time in Baghdad. Let me just say: Saddam Hussein would have spit out his tea at the level of corruption Trump and his family are currently engaged in: Palaces and golden ballrooms and arches dedicated to himself. Saddam would have been green with envy.

If we learned anything from Hungary and other authoritarian countries, it’s that eventually we hit a tipping point, and the public will refuse to accept this level of corruption.

We have to lift the veil of fear:

One of the key tools in authoritarian governments is the wielding of fear. Just think about what Trump has done to our journalists, universities, law firms, and corporations that won’t bow down to him. They’re all just going to ground and trying to stay out of Donald Trump’s firing line.

They should be linking arms and working together to push back. But they’re not.

Build a broad coalition:

In Hungary, the lesson I drew very clearly was that you need a broad coalition to remove an authoritarian like Orban at the polls. Peter Magyar was a young, dynamic newcomer who used social media brilliantly – but just as relevant was the coalition he put together to oust Orban.

Here in America, that coalition would be the equivalent of disaffected Trump voters, traditional Democratic voters, and young and first time voters.

What we know here in the US, is that a new coalition is needed that crosses party lines to win in 2028. No litmus testing people out of a movement for change. And, I’d offer that after losing two of the last three elections to Trump, insiders in Washington need to accept that it’s no longer Democrat vs. Republicans or Moderates vs. Progressives. That is fighting the last war.

The tectonic plates of American politics are shifting beneath our feet. The real divide is those who believe in President Trump’s vision of America – that we have no moral backbone, no core belief system, and we’re in decline – and those who believe that the American spirit still lives…

Free and fair elections:

The authoritarian playbook is very clear: When you’re at risk of losing, you either A: make up a threat that only you can protect the American people from, or B: find a way for federal law enforcement or the military to seize ballots or machines.

In Hungary, Orban used Plan A. One week before his election, he falsely claimed there was a major threat to an oil pipeline in an attempt to be seen as the only true protector. Luckily, the Hungarians saw through it. They knew it was all a ruse.

A forward-looking agenda:

So, what can we offer a big broad coalition that is willing to vote against a dictator? In my mind, we owe them three things.

First: We need to show people that the government can work in concrete ways.

Number Two: Accountability.

Number Three: We need to Trump-proof the government.

Conclusion:

I believe that Americans want the best for each other and the future of this country. I believe that we are a people who will build the future with our own two hands – so that our children and grandchildren have a better life to look forward to.

And I am optimistic because this isn’t the only time in our country’s history we’ve had a rough period. Even if it sometimes feels that way.

If you’re like me and history gives you hope, then just think about all these tough moments in our history, and how we got out of them.

Every single time, we got through it with two things: engaged citizens and principled leaders.

I’ll leave you with this: America is not a country that cowers. We’re not at our end. We will get out of this. We will not give up the ship.

###",1,2026-10-01T11:23:28Z,2026-10-01T11:25:15Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-railroad-inspector-workforce-and-improve-railway-safety,Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Railroad Inspector Workforce & Improve Railway Safety,2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation to improve railroad inspector pay. The bill, which Peters’ introduced with U.S. Senator Jim Justice (R-WV), would increase the pay levels for Federal Rail Administration (FRA) inspectors and specialists for the first time since 1979. The bipartisan bill aims to strengthen and expand this critical workforce, improving railway safety in Michigan and across the country. As of 2023, there were 2,382 Michigan freight railroad employees, many of whom would be included in this pay increase.

“The United States railway system is critical to the success of our entire economy. Federal railroad inspectors play a vital role in maintaining that system by ensuring railroad tracks, equipment, and operating practices remain safe and secure,” said Senator Peters, Ranking Member of the Commerce Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports. “Making sure we can recruit and retain highly skilled professionals for this essential workforce will improve railway safety in communities across the country. This bipartisan, commonsense bill would help us do just that by providing federal rail inspectors with more competitive wages for the critical work they do.”

“By tackling compensation for these critical safety positions, the senators are taking meaningful action to help the FRA recruit and retain the skilled professionals essential to overseeing railroad safety across the country. Fair pay is vital to attracting experienced talent and keeping qualified inspectors and specialists in federal service, rather than losing them to higher-paying opportunities elsewhere,” AFGE Local 2814 President Scott Hoose said. “I appreciate the bipartisan approach shown by Senators Peters and Justice. Railroad safety is a shared priority that crosses party lines. AFGE Local 2814 looks forward to continued progress on this legislation and stands ready to support efforts that give the FRA the tools and personnel needed to keep America’s railroads safe.”

FRA inspectors enforce federal rail safety laws across approximately 160,000 miles of track nationwide, including 3,349 miles in Michigan alone. The current government pay structure leaves them one full pay level below comparable federal accident-investigation positions. As a result, the FRA has struggled with recruitment and retention of its safety inspector and specialist positions, potentially affecting rail safety enforcement and monitoring. By upgrading the pay scale, Peters’ bill aims to make these FRA positions more competitive to strengthen the workforce while supporting safer railroad operations.

The legislation is supported by key stakeholders including the American Federation of Government Employees Local 2814 and the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO.

###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/29/slotkin-britt-delauro-bacon-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-modernize-ovarian-cancer-prevention-and-care/,"Slotkin, Britt, DeLauro, Bacon Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Modernize Ovarian Cancer Prevention and Care",2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Katie Britt (R-AL), along with Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Don Bacon (R-NE) introduced the Ovarian Cancer Improving and Modernizing Prevention, Access, Care, and Testing (IMPACT) Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to expand access to genetic testing, hereditary cancer risk assessment, and specialty care for patients and families affected by ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer is the fifth-leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the United States, and roughly 80 percent of cases are detected only after the disease has reached an advanced stage. If caught early, the five-year survival rate exceeds 90 percent. However, there remains no reliable screening test for the disease. This means that genetic counseling, hereditary risk assessment, and provider awareness are critical tools for prevention and early detection.

“No family should have to fight both a cancer diagnosis and their insurance company at the same time,” said Slotkin. “Women, especially in rural communities like Michigan, should be able to get the genetic testing and specialty care they need to catch this disease early or prevent it altogether. Our bill tackles this issue from every angle — awareness, outreach and access to care and testing — and I thank my colleagues from across the aisle as we all work to save lives.”

“Too many women receive an ovarian cancer diagnosis only after the disease has advanced, when treatment options are limited and outcomes are far worse,” said Britt. “Knowledge is one of the most powerful tools we have, and every woman with a family history of ovarian cancer deserves to know her risk and have access to the screening and counseling that can help her make informed decisions about her health. I’m proud to join Senator Slotkin in this bipartisan effort to reauthorize Johanna’s Law, expand outreach to rural and underserved communities, and ensure genetic screening is covered for the women who need it most. Alabama has already shown national leadership in preventing gynecologic cancers, and this legislation builds on that progress so that where a woman lives or what her insurance plan covers doesn’t determine whether she can catch this disease early.”

“I am a survivor of ovarian cancer by the grace of God and biomedical research,” said DeLauro. “I am proud to stand with my colleagues in introducing bipartisan, bicameral legislation that would strengthen ovarian cancer research, medical services, and outreach to women to ensure screening and good health. This Ovarian Cancer Month, I am committed to fighting for improved health outcomes for all women, so more and more women survive this deadly disease.”

“Ovarian cancer affects thousands of women and families every year, including some of my closest friends, and too many cases are not caught until the disease has reached an advanced stage,” said Bacon. “Knowing the warning signs and having access to genetic counseling, testing and quality care can make a real difference. I’m pleased to join my colleagues on the bipartisan, bicameral Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act to improve awareness, expand access to specialized care, including in rural communities, and help more women get the care they need sooner.”

The Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act would:

Expand Insurance Coverage for Genetic and Genomic Testing: Require group and individual health plans, including grandfathered plans, to cover genetic counseling and testing (germline multi-gene panel testing, targeted testing, and tumor genomic profiling) for patients with a history of ovarian cancer, guideline-eligible endometrial cancer, or a family history of hereditary cancer syndromes.

Cover Risk-Reducing Interventions: Ensure coverage for evidence-based risk-reducing surgeries and other risk management interventions for individuals identified as being at elevated hereditary risk, regardless of a personal cancer history.

Reauthorize and Strengthen Johanna’s Law: Reauthorize the CDC’s national gynecologic cancer education campaign and authorize $20 million annually from FY2027–FY2031 to expand education and outreach on hereditary cancer risk, genetic counseling and testing, and evidence-based ovarian cancer prevention, including opportunistic salpingectomy, or fallopian tube removal.

Expand Rural and Telehealth Access: Expands existing HRSA programs to include ovarian cancer and helps rural providers access ovarian cancer training and specialty expertise.

Fund Demonstration Projects: Prioritize grants for outreach and education strategies in rural, underserved, and high-risk communities.

Ensure Accountability: Require HHS to deliver an implementation roadmap to Congress within 180 days of enactment and comprehensive impact reports every three years through FY2032.

The bill is introduced alongside a companion resolution to recognize September as National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

“We have an evidence-based strategy to reduce ovarian cancer risk and save lives with salpingectomy but need solutions to remove barriers to this care. Every patient considering pelvic surgery deserves a conversation with their physician about whether risk-reducing salpingectomy is appropriate for them and aligns with their health, values, and goals. We urge health systems and insurers to actively remove barriers to implementation of this care. ACOG is proud to endorse the Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act, which would expand awareness of and access to evidence-based prevention strategies, helping spare more patients and families from the devastating burden of ovarian cancer,” said Sandra E. Brooks, MD, MBA, FACOG, chief executive officer of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists.

“The introduction of the Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act is an important step forward for people affected by gynecologic cancers,” said Audra Moran, President and CEO of Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance. “We are incredibly grateful to Senators Slotkin and Britt and Representatives DeLauro and Bacon for their bipartisan leadership and commitment to advancing policies that will improve prevention, expand access to care in rural and underserved communities, and give patients and families more opportunities to understand and manage their cancer risk.”

“FORCE applauds the introduction of this important legislation, which has the potential to save lives while reducing long-term healthcare costs,” said Lisa Schlager, BRCA1 mutation carrier and Vice President, Public Policy at FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered. “Up to 20% of ovarian cancers and 15% of endometrial cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations. National medical guidelines recommend that everyone diagnosed with these cancers be offered genetic counseling and testing. While hereditary cancers represent only a subset of all cancer diagnoses, identifying individuals who have—or are predisposed to—these cancers is critical. They are the poster children for prevention, early detection, and targeted treatments.”

See full text of the bill here.

###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/29/slotkin-peters-padilla-demand-homeland-security-secretary-to-stand-up-to-trump-on-election-interference-not-send-ice-to-polls/,"Slotkin, Peters, Padilla Demand Homeland Security Secretary to Stand up to Trump on Election Interference, Not Send ICE to Polls",2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), in an effort led by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Alex Padilla (D-CA), called on Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin to stop any efforts to bring the 2026 midterm elections under federal control and erode public confidence in them. Slotkin has made demanding accountability from Mullin in election security issues a priority, ever since Mullin’s confirmation hearing.

The Senators asked DHS to produce evidence backing up Mullin’s public statements that “thousands of non-citizens” had registered to vote. They also urged the Department to withdraw the new election-related requirements attached to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) homeland security grants, deliver the full funding to the states, and put an immediate end to the so-called “Unlawful Voter Initiative” that a recent whistleblower brought to light.

“We write to warn you against continued activities at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that seek to undermine the Constitutional authority of both Congress and states to administer elections and defy the directions of federal courts. As Secretary of Homeland Security, you have promoted the President’s conspiracy theories about our elections, pressured states to participate in illegal activities, and explicitly threatened to reduce grant funding and initiate criminal investigations for those states that do not comply with the Administration’s demands,” wrote the Senators.

The letter pushes back on Mullin’s unsubstantiated assertion that 250,000 noncitizens are registered to vote across four states. It also faults DHS for leaning on states to hand over sensitive voter roll data for screening through the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program, even though the Administration itself has conceded there are flaws in the data behind that system.

“The 2026 midterm elections are already underway. Your unsubstantiated allegations of noncitizen voter fraud, public recitation of unreliable data, and unwarranted conditioning of continued grant funding for state election security measures on compliance with politically motivated requests for voter data appear to be calculated efforts to undermine confidence in our elections and risks wrongly disenfranchising voters,” the Senators continued.

In addition to Slotkin, Peters, and Padilla, the letter is signed by Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DL), Chris Coons (D-DL), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

Read the full text of the letter here.

###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/29/slotkin-warren-demand-full-accounting-of-trumps-huge-tax-breaks-for-ai-and-tech-companies/,"Slotkin, Warren Demand Full Accounting of Trump’s Huge Tax Breaks for AI and Tech Companies",2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) in sending letters to the CEOs of Amazon, Meta, Alphabet, and Microsoft demanding answers and full transparency on the tax breaks they have received from President Trump, tax breaks they received because of their investments in AI and data center spending.

“Americans across the country are worried about the impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) on their lives — from increased utility bills to threats of job losses and cyberattacks,” wrote the senators. “Rather than regulate AI to protect American families or address the nation’s affordability crisis, the Trump administration and its Republican allies in Congress have prioritized handing out colossal tax breaks to giant corporations.”

Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Tina Smith (D-MN) also signed the letters.

Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), passed by Trump and congressional Republicans last year, major tech companies can now write off billions of dollars in AI development costs, massively lowering what they owe in taxes. Newly released figures show these tax breaks are a key factor behind the 25% decline in corporate tax revenue this year, even as Big Tech’s own revenues and profits continue to skyrocket.

“This enormous tax cut appears to have been driven in significant part by President Trump and Republicans’ tax breaks subsidizing your spending on AI,” continued the senators.

These same tech giants have also poured money into influencing Republicans and the Trump administration. Each of the four companies gave $1 million to the President’s inauguration, and they spent millions more lobbying Congress and federal agencies in the run-up to OBBBA’s passage. The senators demanded these massive companies provide transparency on the tax breaks they received and disclose any lobbying they had done to receive them by October 11, 2026.

“These tax breaks are not free—their cost has been imposed on American families via cuts to critical social services and a higher deficit,” wrote the senators.

Full text of the letter to Amazon here.

Full text of the letter to Meta here.

Full text of the letter to Alphabet here.

Full text of the letter to Microsoft here.

###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-participates-in-pavilion-dedication-ceremony-at-pontiac-oaks-park,PHOTOS: Peters Participates in Pavilion Dedication Ceremony at Pontiac Oaks Park,2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"PONTIAC, MI — U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) was honored on Friday, September 25th during a ceremony at the new Pontiac Oaks Park, formerly Hawthorne Park, in Pontiac. During the event, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission dedicated a new pavilion in honor of Senator Peters to recognize his advocacy for federal funding for Michigan communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lasting impacts of those resources across Oakland County.

Peters helped pass the American Rescue Plan into law in 2021, a robust pandemic aid package which provided federal support to local communities, including funding for projects to rebuild essential community spaces. The Pontiac Oaks Park revitalization project leveraged a $1.3 million investment made possible by Senator Peters’ efforts to pass the bill into law.

“When faced with an unprecedented crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s imperative that we come together and fight for the resources needed to help Michigan communities come back even stronger. That’s why I made it a top priority to ensure the federal pandemic response included investments for local projects like this one to improve infrastructure and revitalize public spaces,” said Senator Peters. “The newly renovated Pontiac Oaks Park is a prime example of what’s possible when federal, state, and local officials work together to achieve a common goal. I feel deeply honored to receive this recognition and I’m thrilled to celebrate this new community space alongside residents and partners.”

To download photos from the event, click here.

The funding secured by Peters helped to support numerous upgrades at Pontiac Oaks Park, including a fishing pier, playground and play pockets, a paved trail, a disc golf course, picnic pavilions and restroom improvements.

""Pontiac residents have seen an important community space given new life, and that is something worth celebrating,"" Pontiac Mayor Mike McGuinness said. ""Families now have a welcoming, high-quality park close to home where they can gather, play, walk, fish and enjoy the outdoors. We are grateful for the partnership with Oakland County Parks and for the investment that has made the revitalization of Pontiac Oaks possible.""

The Pontiac Oaks Park revitalization was completed as part of Oakland County’s Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan, which combined $15 million in APRA funding with an additional $5.2 million from Oakland County Parks. The project has improved public spaces throughout Oakland County.

""Senator Peters was an early advocate for making sure local communities had the federal support they needed to respond to the pandemic and recover. That support opened a rare opportunity to build transformational, long-term partnerships with local governments and invest more than $20 million to revitalize parks and public spaces across Oakland County. For decades to come, families will enjoy places like Pontiac Oaks, and the Peters Pavilion will stand as a reminder of Senator Peters' important role in making these investments possible,"" said Chris Ward, Director of Oakland County Parks.

###",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-peters-introduces-bipartisan-bill-requiring-the-defense-department-to-accelerate-pfas-clean-up-at-michigan-military-installations,Senator Peters Introduces Bipartisan Bill Requiring the Defense Department to Accelerate PFAS Clean-Up at Michigan Military Installations,2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation that would require the Department of Defense (DOD) to accelerate the cleanup of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination at military installations in Michigan and across the United States. The bill, which Peters introduced with U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD), comes after the Trump Administration has repeatedly pushed back the timeline for PFAS remediation efforts at more than 300 DOD sites nationwide, with some projects being delayed up to 40 years. This includes delays to 11 cleanup projects at military installations across Michigan, including the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Kellogg Air National Guard Base, Camp Grayling, K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base, Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Detroit Arsenal, Grand Ledge Army Aviation Support Facility, and Kincheloe Air Force Base.

“Americans across the country are living at heightened risk of PFAS exposure from contamination at nearby military installations, depriving some communities of access to safe drinking water. Yet, the Department of Defense continues to drag its feet and delay essential cleanup projects that would help keep these military communities safe,” said Senator Peters. “It’s past time that the Department of Defense treats this growing public health crisis with the urgency it deserves. This bipartisan bill would force them to get shovels in the ground and begin cleanup of these sites without further delay.”

“This bipartisan bill changes the focus - from long term delays to quick and effective PFAS cleanup actions - at military installations across the nation,” said Tony Spaniola, Co-Chair of the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network. “Interim cleanup actions are a key component of the ‘Wurtsmith Cleanup Model’ developed by community experts in my town of Oscoda, Michigan and incorporated in national policy guidance from the Pentagon more than three years ago. On behalf of military communities across the Great Lakes region and beyond, I think Senator Peters and Senator Rounds for their leadership on this important issue.”

“People living near active and former military sites in Michigan are grappling with health complications from drinking water poisoned PFAS chemical pollution, yet the Department of Defense continues to drag its feet on cleaning up this contamination that would save lives and taxpayer money,” said Bentley Johnson, Federal Government Affairs Director of Michigan League of Conservation Voters. “The PFAS Rapid Response Act includes much-needed solutions to kick start interim remediation actions and help people get the relief from toxic contamination that they deserve.”

The PFAS RAPID Response Act would require DOD to initiate PFAS remedial actions at no fewer than 100 military installations within the next two years. The bill expands upon a provision Peters secured in the national defense bill advanced by the Senate Armed Services Committee in June by increasing the number of sites at which the Department must take immediate action.

In the Senate, Peters has made it a priority to address PFAS contamination, and its impacts on public health. Most recently, Peters demanded answers from the Trump Administration for its continued delays in cleaning up PFAS contamination at military installations in Michigan and across the country. In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Peters called on DOD to reverse its unacceptable postponement of PFAS remediation at military bases and requested detailed explanations for the delays in order to give servicemembers, their families, and the surrounding communities the transparency they deserve. Last year, Peters secured provisions in the national defense bill requiring DOD to develop a PFAS remediation acceleration strategy, create a PFAS transparency dashboard, and provide alternative drinking water – such as bottled water – to households with private drinking water wells that have been contaminated by PFAS as a result of DOD activities.

In September 2018, Peters helped convene the first-ever hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, which assessed the federal government’s response to PFAS contamination and remediation efforts. Peters also convened a hearing in 2021 as Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to examine how servicemembers, their families, and communities across the country have been harmed by exposure to toxic PFAS substances connected to military sites. In 2022, Peters convened a field hearing in East Lansing with?numerous administration?officials?to examine federal efforts and coordination with state and local governments to clean up and prevent contamination from PFAS, and to examine the impact exposure to these toxic chemicals has had on servicemembers, first responders, families, and other Michiganders.

Peters has also introduced and advanced bipartisan legislation to reduce the spread of PFAS chemicals at commercial airports. Peters’ Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act, which was signed into law in 2022, is working to deploy more existing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding for commercial airports to purchase devices to test their firefighting equipment without discharging toxic PFAS chemicals. In 2022, Peters’ bill to help protect firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure in the line of duty was also signed into law. Peters also secured $10 billion in federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for PFAS remediation efforts in Michigan and across the country.

###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/24/as-trump-meets-with-chinese-president-slotkin-and-moreno-speak-on-senate-floor-about-bill-to-ban-chinese-vehicles/,"As Trump Meets with Chinese President, Slotkin and Moreno Speak on Senate Floor about Bill to Ban Chinese Vehicles",2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Slotkin, Tillis Push Trump to Move Forward with Taiwan Arms Sale Ahead of Xi Visit

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of President Xi Jinping’s visit to Washington this week, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin...

ICYMI: Slotkin, Colleagues Demand Trump Hold the Line Ahead of China State Visit

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), U.S. Senator...

ICYMI: Slotkin Presses Trump on China’s Role in Iran War Ahead of Thursday State Visit

As Trump Prepares to Host Xi, China Aides Iran in Conducting Lethal Attacks on Americans WASHINGTON...

Slotkin Leads Senate Democrats in Demanding Answers from Hegseth on Cost of Iran War

Pentagon Greatly Underestimates Cost of Iran War to Taxpayers and Families WASHINGTON...

Slotkin Statement on Voting No on Clarity Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following statement regarding her no vote on...

Slotkin Signs Joint Statement with Colleagues on the High Cost of Trump’s Trade War with Canada

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the...

Slotkin Joins Colleagues to Urge Supreme Court to Block Postal Service Rule Limiting Mail-In Voting

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined a bicameral amicus brief challenging the...

Slotkin, Peters Demand Postal Service Halt Implementation of Unconstitutional Vote-by-Mail Restrictions

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) joined Committee...

ICYMI: Detroit News “Automakers urge Congress to quickly pass law banning Chinese cars”

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last week, the Detroit News and Reuters published a report that a group...

Slotkin Supports Bill to End Trump’s Tariffs that Cost Michiganders More Than Any Other State

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined her Senate Democratic colleagues in...

After Top General Says No Troops at Our Polls, Slotkin Seeks Same Assurances from DOJ, DHS/ICE, FBI and National Guard

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, MS NOW’s Morning Joe reported that Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate...",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/videosenator-peters-calls-for-action-to-clean-up-toxic-forever-chemicals-during-michigan-pfas-awareness-week,VIDEO: Senator Peters Calls for Action to Clean Up Toxic “Forever Chemicals” During Michigan PFAS Awareness Week,2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released a video statement during Michigan PFAS Awareness Week calling for continued action to address toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Commonly known as “forever chemicals,” PFAS contamination has harmed communities, residents, and ecosystems across Michigan. Peters has long worked to combat PFAS contamination, accelerate cleanup efforts, and enact policies to prevent future exposure and protect Michiganders. His message comes as the Department of Defense (DOD) continues to delay cleaning up PFAS contamination at military sites in Michigan.

“The decisions we make today will determine the quality of the water our children and grandchildren inherit,” SenatorPeters said. “That means doing everything we can to clean up contaminated sites, keep PFAS out of our drinking water, and hold polluters accountable. That’s why I’ll never stop fighting to address these toxic chemicals, and to protect the health and safety of Michiganders and our environment.”

To watch Peters’ video for Michigan PFAS Awareness Week, click here.

Despite ongoing setbacks from the Department of Defense (DOD), Peters has long fought alongside community leaders in Michigan to mitigate harmful PFAS contamination. Peters recently demanded answers from the Trump Administration for its continued delays in cleaning up PFAS contamination at military installations in Michigan and across the country. In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Peters called on DOD to reverse its unacceptable postponement of PFAS remediation at military bases and requested detailed explanations for the delays in order to give servicemembers, their families, and the surrounding communities the transparency they deserve. Last year, Peters secured provisions in the national defense bill requiring DOD to develop a PFAS remediation acceleration strategy, create a PFAS transparency dashboard, and provide alternative drinking water – such as bottled water – to households with private drinking water wells that have been contaminated by PFAS as a result of DOD activities.

In September 2018, Peters helped convene the first-ever hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, which assessed the federal government’s response to PFAS contamination and remediation efforts. He then convened a field summit in Grand Rapids in November 2018 to shine a light on how local, state, and federal governments are coordinating responses to address PFAS contamination. Peters also convened a hearing in 2021 as Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to examine how servicemembers, their families, and communities across the country have been harmed by exposure to toxic PFAS substances connected to military sites. In 2022, Peters convened a field hearing in East Lansing with numerous administration officials to examine federal efforts and coordination with state and local governments to clean up and prevent contamination from PFAS, and to examine the impact exposure to these toxic chemicals has had on servicemembers, first responders, families, and other Michiganders.

Peters has also introduced and advanced bipartisan legislation to reduce the spread of PFAS chemicals at commercial airports. Peters’ Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act, which was signed into law in 2022, is working to deploy more existing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding for commercial airports to purchase devices to test their firefighting equipment without discharging toxic PFAS chemicals. In 2022, Peters’ bill to help protect firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure in the line of duty was also signed into law. Peters also secured $10 billion in federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for PFAS remediation efforts in Michigan and across the country.

###",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/23/icymi-slotkin-colleagues-demand-trump-hold-the-line-ahead-of-china-state-visit/,"ICYMI: Slotkin, Colleagues Demand Trump Hold the Line Ahead of China State Visit",2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Slotkin, Tillis Push Trump to Move Forward with Taiwan Arms Sale Ahead of Xi Visit

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of President Xi Jinping’s visit to Washington this week, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin...

ICYMI: Slotkin Presses Trump on China’s Role in Iran War Ahead of Thursday State Visit

As Trump Prepares to Host Xi, China Aides Iran in Conducting Lethal Attacks on Americans WASHINGTON...

Slotkin Leads Senate Democrats in Demanding Answers from Hegseth on Cost of Iran War

Pentagon Greatly Underestimates Cost of Iran War to Taxpayers and Families WASHINGTON...

Slotkin Statement on Voting No on Clarity Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following statement regarding her no vote on...

Slotkin Signs Joint Statement with Colleagues on the High Cost of Trump’s Trade War with Canada

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the...

Slotkin Joins Colleagues to Urge Supreme Court to Block Postal Service Rule Limiting Mail-In Voting

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined a bicameral amicus brief challenging the...

Slotkin, Peters Demand Postal Service Halt Implementation of Unconstitutional Vote-by-Mail Restrictions

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) joined Committee...

ICYMI: Detroit News “Automakers urge Congress to quickly pass law banning Chinese cars”

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last week, the Detroit News and Reuters published a report that a group...

Slotkin Supports Bill to End Trump’s Tariffs that Cost Michiganders More Than Any Other State

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined her Senate Democratic colleagues in...

After Top General Says No Troops at Our Polls, Slotkin Seeks Same Assurances from DOJ, DHS/ICE, FBI and National Guard

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, MS NOW’s Morning Joe reported that Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate...

ICYMI: General Caine Responds to Slotkin, Assures No Plans to Send Troops to Polls in November, Hegseth Silent

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Associated Press reported that General Dan Caine, Chairman of the...",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/23/slotkin-tillis-push-trump-to-move-forward-with-taiwan-arms-sale-ahead-of-xi-visit/,"Slotkin, Tillis Push Trump to Move Forward with Taiwan Arms Sale Ahead of Xi Visit",2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of President Xi Jinping’s visit to Washington this week, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), co-chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Taiwan Caucus, sent a letter to President Trump urging him to immediately notify Congress and move forward with the pre-approved $14 billion arms sale package to Taiwan.

Slotkin and Tillis note that Taiwan has already approved a record $25 billion defense supplemental to support the purchase, and that the sale would benefit the U.S. domestically by supporting American jobs and the U.S. defense industrial base.

“As we approach President Xi’s visit to Washington, we urge you to stand up for American interests and against Chinese aggression through actions and not just rhetoric,” wrote the Senators. “As President Reagan made clear, U.S. arms sales to Taiwan should never be subject to negotiation with China—especially not at a time when Chinese aggression against Taiwan has evolved from aircraft incursions into a persistent, multidomain campaign that looks more like preparation for war.”

The package, pre-approved by Congress in January 2025 and funded entirely by Taiwan, has reportedly been placed on hold following the President’s last meeting with President Xi. The continued delay creates the impression that Taiwan’s security is being negotiated with Beijing.

“On a bipartisan basis, we agree that the United States must never allow China to use arms sales to Taiwan as a bargaining chip,” continued the Senators. “On the eve of President Xi’s visit to Washington, this is why we urge you to immediately approve this arms sale package for Taiwan.”

The full text of the letter is available here.

Read more about the letter in Politico’s National Security Daily.

###",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/21/icymi-slotkin-presses-trump-on-chinas-role-in-iran-war-ahead-of-thursday-state-visit/,ICYMI: Slotkin Presses Trump on China’s Role in Iran War Ahead of Thursday State Visit,2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"As Trump Prepares to Host Xi, China Aides Iran in Conducting Lethal Attacks on Americans

WASHINGTON D.C. — Last week, CBS News reported that U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, sent a letter to President Trump urging him to make Chinese support for Iran’s military a centerpiece of his talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping during Xi’s state visit to Washington this week.

The letter cites a Wall Street Journal report that Iran acquired high-resolution satellite images of a U.S. base in Jordan from Chinese companies both before and after a July attack that killed three American service members and wounded four others. Asked whether he would raise the issue with President Xi, the President said, “I think he’s behaved reasonably well.”

“I have many concerns about your China policy and President Xi’s state visit to Washington next week,” wrote Slotkin. “Your insistence on rolling out the red carpet for our adversaries and kicking our allies in the teeth is beyond me. But I would hope, as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, the provision of targeting information by China to help Iran kill American servicemembers would be something even you can’t tolerate. Unfortunately, this does not appear to be the case.”

Slotkin urged the President to make clear to President Xi that this support “must stop immediately.” She also called on the President to provide troops, military families, and the American public with a clear accounting of the actions he will take to protect U.S. forces.

“For months, we have known that Chinese companies are helping the Iranian military target and attempt to kill U.S. troops,” continued Slotkin. “But new reporting now shows that this support from China may have directly contributed to the deaths of American servicemembers.”

Slotkin’s letter criticizes Trump’s decision to enter this war with Iran without congressional authorization, noting that 18 American service members have been killed so far and more than 820 have been wounded.

Read the CBS News story here.

The full text of the letter is available here.",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-during-suicide-prevention-month-peters-speaks-on-senate-floor-to-highlight-importance-of-988-suicide-and-crisis-lifeline,"VIDEO: During Suicide Prevention Month, Peters Speaks on Senate Floor to Highlight Importance of 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline",2026-09-18,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) took to the Senate floor to highlight the importance of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which provides free and confidential mental health counseling to every American. The speech comes after Peters joined his colleagues in introducing a resolution recognizing September 8th as “988 Day” to raise awareness of this essential resource.

“According to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. Perhaps even more heartbreaking, it is the second-leading cause of death for our young people,” said Peters during his remarks. “Too many people across our country – parents, spouses, children, and friends – are dealing with the unimaginable loss of a loved one.”

Peters’ speech acknowledged that too often, individuals who die by suicide are struggling alone, or did not receive proper treatment for their condition. Research shows that timely intervention is among the best ways to prevent someone from taking their own life, and Peters emphasized the critical role that the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline plays in delivering that essential support.

“As a society, we have an obligation to provide that lifesaving crisis support to every American in every community, and that’s exactly what the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline does. Across our country, Americans facing mental health struggles can access free and confidential support 24/7, 365 days a year,” said Peters.

To watch the full video of Peters’ speech on the Senate floor, click here.

Peters went on to thank crisis support counselors and highlighted the important role they play in providing mental health support to prevent individuals from making the decision to take their own life.

“I want to commend the crisis support counselors across America who answer these calls and help deliver this vital support to every citizen, day and night. Your compassion, dedication, and willingness to be there for others during an incredibly difficult moment literally saves lives,” said Peters.

Peters concluded the speech by recognizing Michigander Bob Goble, an Air Force veteran and veteran suicide prevention advocate who has led the charge to ensure the 988 Lifeline also provides specialized counseling for all veterans in need of support.

“He [Bob] has worked tirelessly to ensure 988 connects his fellow veterans with qualified Veterans Affairs counselors who can provide the specialized mental health support they deserve, and have certainly earned.”

Peters concluded, “No one should have to suffer alone. So, if you or someone you know is in need of support, please call, text, or chat 988. Caring counselors are there to help.”

You can read more about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline here.

###",1,2026-09-19T09:11:33Z,2026-09-19T09:12:45Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-peters-leads-annual-bipartisan-resolution-designating-patriot-week,Senator Peters Leads Annual Bipartisan Resolution Designating Patriot Week,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – For the 8th consecutive year, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) led the passage of a bipartisan resolution designating September 11th through September 17th as Patriot Week. Patriot Week, co-founded by Oakland County Judge Michael Warren, aims to honor and remember the lives lost in the September 11th terrorist attacks, commemorate Constitution Day on September 17th, and encourage Michigan students to engage in American history.

“Patriot Week gives us the opportunity to honor the lives that were lost during the horrific September 11th terrorist attacks and recognize the profound bravery of the first responders who stepped into action on that tragic day,” said Senator Peters. “This resolution serves as a reminder to all Americans that we are at our strongest when we come together, just as we did in the days following September 11th. I want to thank Judge Warren for his continued efforts to help champion this important initiative each year.”

“Patriot Week was started in 2009 when my 10-year-old daughter Leah pounded on the table and demanded a new celebration to renew the spirit of America,” said Patriot Week co-founder Michigan Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Michael Warren. “Over the years, we have held countless activities, produced the Patriot Lessons American History and Civics Podcast on all major platforms, the Patriot Lessons TV Show, videos, and lesson plans, all of which can be found at PatriotWeek.org. This year we are sending historical re-enactors into schools, which are being enthusiastically received by thousands of students.”

“The Patriot Week Foundation is thrilled that with the bipartisan leadership of Senators Gary Peters and John Kennedy, the United States Senate has unanimously approved its eighth consecutive Patriot Week Resolution,” stated Patriot Week co-founder Dr. Leah Warren. “We are deeply grateful to the Senators and all Patriot Week supporters across America.”

Peters introduced the resolution with U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-LA). The full text of the resolution can be found by clicking here.

Peters serves as Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee as well as a member of the Armed Services Committee. Peters volunteered for the U.S. Navy Reserve at age 34, where he earned a Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist designation and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. After the September 11th terrorist attacks on our country, he volunteered again for drilling status and served overseas as part of his Reserve duty. He later earned a diploma from the College of Naval Command and Staff, U.S. Naval War College.

###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/17/slotkin-leads-senate-democrats-in-demanding-answers-from-hegseth-on-cost-of-iran-war/,Slotkin Leads Senate Democrats in Demanding Answers from Hegseth on Cost of Iran War,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Pentagon Greatly Underestimates Cost of Iran War to Taxpayers and Families

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee led 45 of her colleagues, nearly the entire Democratic caucus, in sending a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, demanding a full accounting of the costs of the ongoing war with Iran. The letter also criticized the Department of Defense for withholding basic budget information from Congress and the American public even as U.S. casualties and taxpayer costs continue to increase.

The United States is now more than six months into a conflict President Trump initially said would last six weeks. Eighteen American servicemembers have been killed and more than 820 wounded, and over 50,000 troops are currently deployed to the Middle East. In the letter, Slotkin and her colleagues note that deployments, including for the USS Lincoln and the 82nd Airborne, have been repeatedly extended, and that their offices have heard directly from military families worried about loved ones serving in the conflict.

“Meanwhile, at home, American taxpayers have already paid an extra $100 billion out of their pockets for higher gas and diesel prices alone and at least another $60 billion in higher costs for things like groceries, mortgages, and plane tickets as a result of the war,” wrote the Senators. “Now you are asking that they pay again to fund a war of choice that Congress never authorized and the President launched with no strategic plan.”

In their letter, the senators highlight the contrast between the current Pentagon’s transparency record with past wartime practice, noting that Hegseth has briefed Congress only seven times in six months and held just eight Pentagon press briefings or interviews since the war began, compared to more than 70 press briefings in the first month of the Iraq War alone. The senators also criticized the administration’s public supplemental funding request as a seven-page document offering only vague line items, in contrast to the detailed, hundred-page supplemental requests provided to Congress during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.

Slotkin and the senators are requesting that the Department of Defense provide:

A detailed breakdown of all direct and indirect costs of military operations against Iran to date, including damage to installations, aircraft, and equipment.

A full accounting of the $67 billion supplemental request, specifying what covers past costs versus future operations.

A detailed plan for how the Pentagon intends to spend the remaining $34 billion from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

“Despite asking for tens of billions of additional taxpayer dollars, you have so far failed to provide basic information on how this money has and will be spent,” continued the Senators. “Congress must have access to this information to carry out our oversight responsibilities. It is the bare minimum that any American would expect in balancing their own household budget.”

Senator Slotkin’s letter was signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Richard Durbin (D-IL), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael G. Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

The full text of the letter is available here.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/commerce-committee-passes-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-bolster-great-lakes-conservation-efforts,Commerce Committee Passes Peters’ Bipartisan Bill to Bolster Great Lakes Conservation Efforts,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee passed bipartisan legislation led by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to strengthen federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation efforts. The Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act of 2026 – which Peters introduced with U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH) – would designate the Great Lakes Commission (GLC) as the Regional Great Lakes Partnership under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Regional Ocean Partnerships Program. This designation ensures that the Great Lakes region receives a fair share of program funding, delivering federal resources to support the GLC’s longstanding work to coordinate Great Lakes research and conservation efforts. The bill now advances to the full Senate.

“The Great Lakes are essential to our economy, our environment, and our way of life in Michigan,” said Senator Peters, Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force. “That’s why I have long fought to protect the federal conservation programs that deliver for our Great Lakes. This commonsense, bipartisan bill does just that. With more secure financial backing, the GLC can continue spearheading region-wide efforts to keep our Great Lakes healthy and vibrant for future generations.”

“The Great Lakes Commission is grateful to Senators Peters and Moreno for introducing this important legislation to designate the GLC as a regional partnership for the Great Lakes,” said GLC Chair Timothy Bruno, Great Lakes Program Coordinator at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. “This designation will allow the agency to build on its more than 70 years of regional leadership - fostering dialogue, building consensus, and advancing coordinated solutions to the Great Lakes’ most pressing challenges - to ensure the Great Lakes region continues to speak with a strong, unified voice. We look forward to working with our partners to realize the full benefits of this program for the region.”

The GLC is an interstate agency that brings together eight U.S. states and two Canadian provinces to protect the Great Lakes and our environment and promote economic growth in the Great Lakes basin. The GLC is comprised of the States of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

NOAA’s Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) coordinate interstate ocean and coastal resource management efforts and create opportunities for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. There are four ROPs, located in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Gulf, and West Coast. However, there is currently no Great Lakes ROP. Peters’ bipartisan bill would establish the GLC as the NOAA ROP for the Great Lakes region, ensuring the Great Lakes region receives its fair share of program funding.

Peters has made protecting the Great Lakes for future generations a key priority throughout his entire career. As Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, Peters plays a key role in uniting Great Lakes lawmakers to coordinate legislative initiatives, funding priorities, and oversight efforts to address the most important issues facing the Great Lakes, such as invasive species, environmental contamination, shoreline erosion, water quality, infrastructure needs, and more.

Peters has consistently led the charge to fund the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which has helped restore and transform the health of our treasured bodies of water. In 2021, he helped secure $1 billion for the program – the largest investment in GLRI ever – as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Today, he is leading the effort to reauthorize the program for another five years at increased funding levels, which would put GLRI on solid footing for years to come.

Peters also created the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Oil Spill Center of Expertise. Collocated in Ann Arbor and Sault Ste. Marie, the center is actively working to develop best practices for effectively responding to an oil spill in freshwater environments like the Great Lakes.

###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/15/slotkin-statement-on-voting-no-on-clarity-act/,Slotkin Statement on Voting No on Clarity Act,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following statement regarding her no vote on proceeding on the Clarity Act, a large package regulating the crypto industry.

“Today, I voted no on the Clarity Act, legislation meant to regulate cryptocurrency in America.

“The ethics provisions in this bill are simply too thin. President Trump, his children, and his Cabinet are making billions of dollars in the crypto space, in part from bilking everyday Americans out of their hard-earned money. I cannot in good conscience vote for any legislation that codifies that behavior from public officials. Not for President Trump or Secretary Lutnick today, nor for any Democrat who may take advantage of it in the future.“

“On the national security front, there is more to be done to make sure we have the tools in place to stop money laundering and shut down funding avenues for terrorists and nations like North Korea and Iran. This was essential after 9/11 and remains essential to keep Americans safe.

“And as of now, our agencies, including the CFTC, lack the necessary oversight and staffing to implement this legislation, and that should be addressed.

“There are strong, bipartisan provisions in this bill that could serve as the foundation for a new attempt at providing the crypto industry with the guardrails it needs. I believe that the U.S. should lead the world in cryptocurrency innovation, but we need to get it right. I remain open-minded to that work ahead.” t

###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-collins-klobuchar-murkowski-honor-9/11-first-responders-for-25th-anniversary-of-attacks,"Peters, Collins, Klobuchar, Murkowski Honor 9/11 First Responders for 25th Anniversary of Attacks",2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Susan Collins (R-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, submitted a joint statement into the Congressional Record honoring the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001, and those who aided in the rescue and recovery efforts in the days and months that followed.

In their statement marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, the senators paid tribute to the courage and sacrifice of America’s fire and emergency services personnel and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting first responders across the country.

“Twenty-five years later, the impact of 9/11 is still felt by all Americans, especially those that risked their life during and after the attacks” said Michaela Campbell, Executive Director of the Congressional Fire Services Institute. “The Congressional Fire Services Institute thanks the Congressional Fire Services Caucus for its recognition of those that responded to 9/11, and the Caucus’s consistent work in support of the Nation’s fire and emergency services. CFSI looks forward to continuing its work with the Caucus into the future.”

The senators’ joint statement reads:

“M. President, I rise today on behalf of myself, my fellow Senate co-chairs – Senator Collins, Senator Klobuchar, Senator Murkowski – and the entire Congressional Fire Services Caucus to recognize the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001.

On that tragic morning, nearly 3,000 innocent lives – including 343 members of the fire and emergency services – were taken in acts of terrorism that shook our country to its core. As co-chairs of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, we stand today, 25 years later, to remember every individual loss, every family forever changed by unimaginable tragedy, and every community that continues to carry the weight of that day.

As we reflect on the events of September 11th, we pay special tribute to America's first responders. In a time of fear, confusion, and turmoil, members of the fire and emergency services rushed toward danger with unwavering resolve. They did not hesitate. They answered the call knowing the risks, guided by a profound commitment to protecting lives.

On 9/11, hundreds of firefighters and EMS providers made the ultimate sacrifice while carrying out their duty. Their courage became a defining symbol of American heroism, reminding us that the measure of service is found not in words, but in selfless action. The courage displayed by these first responders inspired millions and reminded us that hope is strongest when we stand together. In those moments of profound uncertainty, neighbors helped neighbors, communities rallied together, and Americans from every walk of life stood united in compassion and resilience.

We also honor the thousands of first responders who labored tirelessly in the days, weeks, and months that followed. Amid smoke, debris, and uncertainty, they searched for survivors, recovered the fallen, comforted grieving families, and helped a wounded nation begin the long process of healing. Many have since faced life-threatening illnesses and chronic health conditions resulting from their service. Their sacrifices did not end when the recovery efforts concluded, and our nation's obligation to care for them remains as enduring as their commitment to us.

In the years since September 11th, that obligation has taken many forms. The Congressional Fire Services Caucus has worked to ensure that the needs of America's first responders remain a priority in Washington, DC – advocating for the resources, protections, benefits, and support they need to serve their communities and return home safely. The work of the Fire Services Caucus reflects a responsibility that extends far beyond any single anniversary: to understand the needs and challenges of our local fire and EMS personnel, to stand with those who stand ready to protect us, and to ensure that our nation does not forget the sacrifices made every day in service to others.

Across our cities, towns, and rural communities, first responders answer emergency calls regardless of what awaits them at the scene. They respond to fires, medical emergencies, hazardous material incidents, natural disasters, and much more with the same dedication and sense of duty that defined those who responded on September 11th. The work of the fire and emergency services is indispensable to the safety and well-being of every American.

To the younger generations who know September 11th only through history, we must preserve not only the memory of that day, but also the guiding example set by those who responded. The legacy of September 11th is one of courage over fear, service over self, and unity over division.

Today, we honor the individuals whose lives were cut short, the families who continue to bear their loss, and the first responders whose bravery became a lasting testament to the best of America. May we never forget their sacrifice. May we continue to support those who wear the uniform of the fire and emergency services. And may we strive each day to keep building a nation worthy of the courage they displayed on one of our country's darkest days.”

###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-on-the-25th-anniversary-of-the-9/11-terrorist-attacks,Peters Statement on the 25th Anniversary of the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks,2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) – Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, a member of the Armed Services Committee, and a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve — released the following statement observing the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001:

“Twenty-five years ago, our nation experienced an unspeakable tragedy that took 2,977 innocent lives and forever changed our country. Today, we remember those who never came home, the families who have carried their loss, and the courageous first responders who ran toward danger to save others and helped us rebuild in the aftermath of that terrible day. We also honor the servicemembers and veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as their families, and never forget their tremendous sacrifices for our nation.

“In the aftermath of that awful tragedy, Americans put their differences aside and came together with a shared resolve to rebuild and ensure that an attack like September 11th could never happen again. Democrats and Republicans worked together to strengthen the institutions charged with protecting our homeland from terrorism because we learned, at an unimaginable cost, what can happen when threats to our nation go undetected. Today, critical pieces of that counterterrorism infrastructure are being dismantled, experienced personnel are being fired, resources are being diverted from serious threats, and authorities meant to protect Americans are being used for political purposes. Twenty-five years after September 11th, we cannot lose sight of why these institutions were built or allow the mission of protecting the American people to be weakened or compromised.”

“As we mark this solemn anniversary, we must honor those we lost not only through remembrance, but by carrying forward the spirit of service, unity, and common purpose that Americans demonstrated in the face of unimaginable tragedy. We must never forget what our nation lost that day, the sacrifices made in the years that followed, and our shared responsibility to keep our nation safe for generations to come.”

Peters volunteered for the U.S. Navy Reserve at age 34, where he earned a Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist designation and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. After the September 11th terrorist attacks, he volunteered again for drilling status and served overseas as part of his Reserve duty. He later earned a diploma from the College of Naval Command and Staff, U.S. Naval War College.

###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ahead-of-25th-anniversary-of-9/11-peters-demands-trump-administration-preserve-records-on-the-dismantling-politicization-of-nations-counterterrorism-infrastructure,"Ahead of 25th Anniversary of 9/11, Peters Demands Trump Administration Preserve Records on the Dismantling, Politicization of Nation’s Counterterrorism Infrastructure",2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Ahead of the 25th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC), sent letters to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Department of Justice (DOJ), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), and the Department of State, demanding that they preserve all records related to the nation’s counterterrorism efforts. Peters also sent a separate letter to the White House raising serious concerns about the Administration’s counterterrorism priorities and calling for the release of a legally required assessment of domestic terrorism threats. The letters follow the release of Peters' report, Failure to Protect, which found that the Trump Administration has dismantled and politicized key aspects of America’s counterterrorism infrastructure, including by diverting resources, cutting personnel, and dismantling programs dedicated to keeping our nation safe from terrorist attacks.

“In the aftermath of September 11th, Democrats and Republicans came together to build a counterterrorism system designed to prevent another catastrophic attack on our homeland,” Peters said. “Now, as we prepare to mark twenty-five years since those tragic attacks, the Trump Administration has been reversing decades of progress by dismantling that system and diverting resources away from the genuine threats facing Americans. We need to preserve the records of these decisions so Congress can hold this Administration accountable and ultimately rebuild a counterterrorism system driven by facts, not politics, and focused on keeping Americans safe.”

Earlier this summer, Peters released a report detailing how the Administration has dismantled key elements of the nation’s post-9/11 security infrastructure, diverted personnel and resources away from preventing terrorist attacks, and increasingly wielded what remains against the Administration’s perceived political opponents. The report found these actions have left the country less prepared to prevent and respond to terrorism while domestic and foreign terrorist threats remain elevated.

Peters’ report found that the Administration has cut 15,000 positions across DOJ and the FBI and removed 1,300 personnel from DHS components responsible for preventing, countering, and responding to terrorism. It has also allowed nearly $1 billion in public safety and homeland security grants to be delayed or canceled, reassigned law enforcement officers, intelligence analysts, and attorneys away from counterterrorism and other national security responsibilities, and weakened or dismantled programs responsible for terrorism prevention, critical infrastructure security, weapons of mass destruction preparedness, and intelligence sharing.

In addition to demanding the Trump Administration abide by all records retention requirements related to its actions, Peters also urged the White House to release its annual strategic intelligence assessment on domestic terrorism, as required by a bipartisan law that Peters introduced in 2019, which requires the FBI and DHS to issue annual reports on domestic terrorism threats, related investigations and prosecutions, and how federal resources are being allocated. Since taking office, the Trump Administration has failed to provide Congress and the American people with the transparency required under the law.

Throughout his time in office, Peters has been a leader in ensuring the federal government adequately addresses both foreign and domestic terrorist threats to Americans. In 2019, Peters helped convene HSGAC’s first domestic terrorism hearing focusing on white supremacist violence. He led the Senate’s bipartisan investigation on the January 6th attack on the U.S Capitol and released a joint bipartisan report on the security, planning, and response failures causing this violence, as well as two additional reports on domestic terrorism and the intelligence failures that preceded the January 6th attack. As HSGAC Chair, Peters convened a hearing with experts focused on the threat of white supremacist extremism, and convened a two-part hearing with experts representing faith-based, civil rights, and academic and policy research organizations on the continued rise of domestic terrorism.

Click here to read Peters’ full report on the Trump Administration’s dismantling of U.S. counterterrorism infrastructure.

Click to read Peters’ letters to the White House, DHS, DOJ, FBI, ODNI, and the State Department.

###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-senator-peters-leads-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour-across-michigan,ICYMI: Senator Peters Leads 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour Across Michigan,2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) led his 10th and final official motorcycle tour across Michigan to meet with local leaders and constituents, highlight success stories in Michigan communities, and show his appreciation for the essential partnerships he’s made in every corner of the state. Peters’ “Thank You, Michigan” tour made stops in Bay City, Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing. Peters was joined on the tour by veterans, union workers, and constituents. Peters is an avid and long-time motorcycle rider who founded the bipartisan Senate Motorcycle Caucus in 2017.

ABC12 Flint: Senator Gary Peters highlights federal funding during motorcycle tour

“U.S. Senator Gary Peters kicked off his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan at Bay City Fire Department Station #2, where he saw how federal funding he secured will help clean up toxic PFAS contamination on the property.

“During his visit, Peters also highlighted an additional $1.3 million federal grant he secured, funded by his bipartisan Fire Grants and Safety Act. The grant enabled the Bay City, Midland and Saginaw fire departments to purchase new self-contained breathing apparatus, which allow firefighters to breathe safely during dangerous rescues.

“‘Our firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities,’ Peters said. ‘We have a responsibility to make sure they have the tools and resources they need to stay safe on the job.’

“Peters continued, saying hazardous PFAS chemicals from firefighting foams have posed serious health risks to firefighters for years.

“‘I was proud to secure nearly $1 million to help Bay City clean up this site and protect the brave firefighters who serve this community,’ Peters said.”

The Alpena News: Peters visits NOAA in Alpena during farewell tour

“U.S. Senator Gary Peters, D-Michigan, visited the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary (TBNMS) on Tuesday as part of his motorcycle farewell tour across Michigan. Peters started the tour in Bay City on Monday and will conclude the tour in East Lansing on Friday.

“The five-day ‘Thank You, Michigan’ tour will make stops in Bay City, Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing. Throughout the tour, Peters will be joined on the ride by veterans, union workers, motorcycle safety advocates, and constituents.

“While at TBNMS, Peters reminisced with TBNMS employees regarding his diving experiences in the sanctuary. He also spoke about the importance of re-authorizing the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), which allocates federal tax dollars to the restoration of the Great Lakes.

“‘The authorization of it ends this year,’ he said while giving remarks at TBNMS. ‘I’m the primary sponsor of the bill to extend it for five more years. I'll be leaving in a few months. I've said this is my number one priority. We got to get this done before I leave.’

“According to the federal Great Lakes Restoration website, federal agencies have funded over 8,000 projects for over $4 billion. The GLRI was launched in 2010 as a nonregulatory program to accelerate efforts to protect and restore the Great Lakes.

“‘My colleagues from around the country are now realizing how important the Great Lakes are for the country,’ he said. ‘The Great Lakes is not just a regional asset.’

“‘Folks now understand that the Great Lakes is a national resource,’ he added. ‘In a very thirsty world, having a body of freshwater here is incredibly important. I'm cautiously optimistic we're going to get that done.’

“Peters told The News that the bill is making ‘headway’ in Congress.”

MyUPNews Marquette: Senator Peters tours new D.J. Jacobetti construction site

“U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) toured the new D.J. Jacobetti construction site on Wednesday morning as part of his final motorcycle tour across Michigan.

“The 38-acre property along Venture Drive will include a facility that will house 108 private bedrooms and handicap-accessible bathrooms for veterans. Funding for the project costs about $57.6 million, which Peters secured through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) State Home Construction Grant Program.

“‘This dream doesn’t become a reality without the support from our legislative officials from the state and federal level. Senator Peters being a champion for many years for the State Veteran Construction Grant Program and then having the backing here locally in Michigan,’ said Chris LaJoie, interim administrator of Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti.

“Peters, who currently serves on the bipartisan Senate Appropriations Committee, said that he’s working to ensure that the grant program receives as much funding as possible to continue supporting veteran needs.

“‘It’s absolutely essential that we take care of our veterans. To me, I think that’s a sacred obligation that every American has. The men and women who are willing to go into harm’s way to protect our freedoms and liberties really deserve and have earned the ability to be able to retire with dignity,’ he explained. ‘That’s what this is about, is making sure that there are housing (units) available for veterans so that they can go someplace, get the kind of care that they need, and live the life that they have earned.’”

UpNorthLive Traverse City: FishPass project stays on track for 2027 as Sen. Peters tours Traverse City site

“U.S. Senator Gary Peters hopped on his motorcycle for his last state tour, stopping Thursday to see a project he helped fund.

“Peters got to see firsthand how the FishPass construction project was coming along. Peters recently secured $22.7 million in Great Lakes Restoration Initiative funding, which helped make FishPass possible.

“It replaces the Union Street dam and will reconnect the Boardman/Ottaway River with Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay.

“‘That we're seeing here in Traverse City with this FishPass and the ability to allow really native species of Great Lakes fish to get up into the tributaries while keeping out invasive species that are playing havoc with our ecosystem,’ said Peters. ‘To be able to put that in place is absolutely incredible. And to think that we’re likely to see what we see here in Traverse City will be the way the future works in projects all over the world.’”

“FishPass workers said the FishPass construction is still on schedule, with 2027 the expected completion date.”

WXMI Grand Rapids: Sen. Peters tours Humane Society of West Michigan, talks PAWS Act

“As part of his annual motorcycle tour across the state, Michigan Sen. Gary Peters stopped at the Humane Society of West Michigan on Friday to discuss the Pet and Women's Safety (PAWS) Act.

“‘A beloved pet is every bit a part of the family,’ Peters said. ‘To have a pet is a very special relationship.’

“The PAWS Act, written by Sen. Peters, provides funding to the shelters and programs that take in the pets of those fleeing from domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking or dating violence.

“At the Humane Society of West Michigan, a program called PETS Network accepts pets affected by such situations. It's the type of program that can seek assistance from the PAWS Act and benefit from a senator's platform.

“‘We're one of a few in Michigan who offer anything like this, and so bringing light to this is so important, and foster families are so important,’ Ashley Dahl, Director of Community Programs for the Humane Society of West Michigan, said.

“Dahl says PETS Network has served around 200 pets over five years and comes at no cost to their owners.

“‘We can only help when we have foster families. So, if there's anybody out there that's leaning towards trying it or wanting to help, we can help more people if they're willing,’ Dahl said.

“In 2023, funding for the PAWS Act expired. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, though, Sen. Peters has been able to secure funding for the program on a yearly basis. He is now working to reauthorize the program at $3 million for the next four years.

“Colleen Nestle says she ‘can't put into words’ the importance of the legislation.

“Years ago, when she left an abusive relationship, she was forced to give up one of her pets. Through PETS Network, she now fosters the pets of those in similar situations.

“‘I've been on the other side,’ Nestle said. ‘So, if I can help even just one person that has been in my shoes, that is so worth it to me.’

WWMT Kalamazoo: Sen. Gary Peters makes final stops on last 'Thank You, Michigan' tour

“Outgoing U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) made the final stops on his last-ever ‘Thank You, Michigan’ motorcycle tour that has crossed the state for the last decade.

“One of those stops was at Grand Rapids Community College, where Peters toured the Automation Lab, an innovative learning space with up-to-date manufacturing and automation equipment and technology.

“Peters secured nearly $1 million for the lab's construction to create workforce development and hands-on training.

“The Democrat Senator had a chance to see the equipment up close and learn how it is helping create jobs in Michigan.

“‘I don't think you can be a great country unless you actually make things,’ Peters said. ‘That's what we do in Michigan. We have a very proud tradition of making things. But the factory floor and manufacturing looks a whole lot different than your father or grandfather. And it's high tech, it's exciting work, and we would need more young folks interested in getting a manufacturing career.’”

WLNS Lansing: Gary Peters stops at MSU’s rare isotopes lab on final Michigan motorcycle tour

“U.S. Sen. Gary Peters of Bloomfield Township toured Michigan State University’s Facility for Rare Isotope Beams on Friday and highlighted the more than $2 billion federal investment he says he helped secure for the lab, a stop on the final motorcycle tour of his Senate career.

“Peters, who is not seeking reelection in 2026, visited the facility with MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz, FRIB Laboratory Director Thomas Glasmacher and physics professor Artemis Spyrou as part of his 10th and last annual ride across the state. The four spoke at a news conference following the tour.

“‘So, when you talk about why we invest in higher education, why do we invest in research universities, it’s those stories, those breakthroughs that make our lives better, and make our lives fuller, and can happen right here,’ Peters said.

“FRIB, which opened in 2022, employs about 460 scientists, engineers and staff, and draws more than 1,800 researchers to East Lansing, according to Peters’ office.

“The lab houses what Peters’ office describes as the most powerful heavy-ion linear accelerator, which produces rare isotopes — short-lived atomic nuclei not found on Earth.”

###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/09/slotkin-joins-colleagues-to-urge-supreme-court-to-block-postal-service-rule-limiting-mail-in-voting/,Slotkin Joins Colleagues to Urge Supreme Court to Block Postal Service Rule Limiting Mail-In Voting,2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined a bicameral amicus brief challenging the legality of President Trump’s Executive Order and U.S. Postal Service rule seeking to exert control over mail-in ballots ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. This comes as nearly one-third of Americans have voted by mail in recent elections — a voting practice Trump himself used as recently as August 2026, when he voted in Florida’s Republican primary.

“As current and former legislators, amici took an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States — including its guarantee of the separation of powers,”wrote the lawmakers.“[We] have a particular interest in defending the institutional role of the Legislative Branch under Article I of the Constitution and in vindicating the long-settled principle that the Constitution commits ultimate regulatory authority over federal elections to Congress. The Constitution does not contemplate the Executive Branch acting unilaterally to assert power over federal elections. Yet that is what the Order and Final Rule do.”

In the court filing, the amici curiae argue that Trump’s Executive Order 4399 and USPS’s final rule violate the separation of powers and usurp congressional authorities outlined in Article I of the U.S. Constitution, which gives the States and Congress exclusive authority over election administration.

In addition to Slotkin, the amicus brief was joined by the entire Senate Democratic Caucus.

In July of 2026, Slotkin released a video in response to President Trump’s Truth Social video post of her in a hearing, defending the mail-in voting process as a safe way for Americans to cast their votes. She has also pressed various Trump Administration officials including, Postmaster General David P. Steiner, Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin, and various others about any planned attempts to interfere with the upcoming midterm elections.

Click here to read the full brief.

###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/09/slotkin-peters-demand-postal-service-halt-implementation-of-unconstitutional-vote-by-mail-restrictions/,"Slotkin, Peters Demand Postal Service Halt Implementation of Unconstitutional Vote-by-Mail Restrictions",2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) joined Committee Democrats in demanding that the United States Postal Service (USPS) immediately halt implementation of President Trump’s unlawful vote-by-mail executive order and rescind its recently finalized rule on federal ballot mail. In a letter to Postmaster General David Steiner and the USPS Board of Governors, the senators warned that the Postal Service’s efforts to fundamentally change how absentee ballots are processed and delivered just weeks before the 2026 midterm elections risks disenfranchising millions of eligible voters and disrupting the smooth administration of the elections.

Slotkin recently pressed Trump Administration nominees for USPS about this very topic. You can watch those hearings here and here.

The lawmakers are also demanding the Postal Service provide overdue answers about what legal authority permits it to regulate federal election mail, its new ballot verification processes, and the operation of its Federal Ballot Mail Portal, as well as its efforts to comply with federal court orders.

“Despite repeated warnings from Congress and court orders not to implement the President’s unlawful directives to regulate mail-in voting, the Postal Service continues to carry out these actions, which will undermine peoples’ faith in the upcoming elections,” the Senators wrote. “If the Postal Service does not immediately reverse its current course, it will inflict lasting harm to our democracy and permanently damage a storied American institution.”

On August 21, USPS finalized a rule to implement President Trump’s vote-by-mail executive order that would require states to provide absentee voter rolls to the federal government and comply with new ballot standards, while giving USPS the authority to verify and refuse to deliver ballots that do not meet its requirements. The senators argue that neither the President nor USPS has the legal authority to regulate absentee voting and noted that despite previous commitments to Congress that it would abide by judicial injunctions, the Postal Service finalized the rule while subject to a federal court order prohibiting it from doing so.

The Postal Service’s rule is also being challenged in several ongoing federal lawsuits, where the legality of the Administration’s vote-by-mail directives remains under review.

Joining Slotkin and Peters in sending the letter were Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and John Fetterman (D-PA).

Read the letter HERE.

###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/09/slotkin-signs-joint-statement-with-colleagues-on-the-high-cost-of-trumps-trade-war-with-canada/,Slotkin Signs Joint Statement with Colleagues on the High Cost of Trump’s Trade War with Canada,2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following joint statement with Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Patty Murray (D-WA), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), in response to President Trump’s continued imposition of new tariffs on Canada. This comes after President Trump’s recent decision to hike tariffs to 50% on 500 Canadian goods.

“The states we represent rely on Canada as a key trading partner and our primary export market. We have deep ties with our neighbors to the north, and we share one of the world’s most enduring defense partnerships. We have built two powerful nations over many decades by working together, growing our economies together, and securing our homelands together. Our countries have achieved great things by working closely together, and we still can.

“Instead of working with our neighbors, President Trump is doubling down on a pointless trade war with Canada. His tariffs will squeeze our states’ small businesses harder and drive costs up for working families. They will raise the cost of the lumber, plywood, and construction equipment we need to build new housing. They will hurt our workers and businesses who manufacture autos, aircraft, and machinery. They will drive up the prices consumers pay for everyday basics like milk, clothing, and paper products.

“President Trump’s tariffs have already cost American families as much as $5,000 in some states, and his senseless trade war with Canada will only grow that number. While American families and businesses suffer from Trump’s trade wars, partners around the world, including Canada, are increasingly looking to diversify away from the United States and deepen trade ties with other countries including China. Congressional Republicans need to stand up to the president and do their part to give families and businesses on both sides of the border relief from this insanity.”

###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/08/icymi-detroit-news-automakers-urge-congress-to-quickly-pass-law-banning-chinese-cars/,ICYMI: Detroit News “Automakers urge Congress to quickly pass law banning Chinese cars”,2026-09-08,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Slotkin Supports Bill to End Trump’s Tariffs that Cost Michiganders More Than Any Other State

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined her Senate Democratic colleagues in...

After Top General Says No Troops at Our Polls, Slotkin Seeks Same Assurances from DOJ, DHS/ICE, FBI and National Guard

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, MS NOW’s Morning Joe reported that Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate...

ICYMI: General Caine Responds to Slotkin, Assures No Plans to Send Troops to Polls in November, Hegseth Silent

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Associated Press reported that General Dan Caine, Chairman of the...

Slotkin Joins Gallego, Colleagues, In Pressing the Israeli Government to Halt Construction Progress for E1 Settlement Project

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined U.S. Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH),...

Slotkin, Schiff, 45 Senators Press Netanyahu to Protect U.S. Citizens, Stop Settler Violence in West Bank

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), in an effort led by Senator Adam Schiff...

Slotkin Statement on Watchdog Filing Complaint Against Jeanine Pirro After Failed Indictment

Complaints filed accuse Pirro of abusing her prosecutorial powers to seek “meritless” indictments against President...

Peters, Slotkin Press Armed Services Republicans for Oversight on Troops Serving Extended Deployments in Iran

SASC Democrats hold Administration accountable for the conditions it has allowed to develop that have left troops...

As President Trump Refuses to Rule it Out, Slotkin Presses Hegseth to Guarantee Military Won’t Interfere in Midterm Elections

Slotkin has sought the same assurances from Pentagon leaders under both parties in 2020 and 2024 WASHINGTON D.C....

Slotkin, Peters, Bergman Press Department of Defense on PFAS Cleanup at Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Camp Grayling

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), and U.S....

Peters, Slotkin Demand Answers from Hegseth on the Reportedly Poor Conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln

USS Lincoln’s deployment has now stretched over 250 days, with over 200 days without a port call WASHINGTON,...",1,2026-09-09T09:27:09Z,2026-09-09T09:29:04Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/03/slotkin-supports-bill-to-end-trumps-tariffs-that-cost-michiganders-more-than-any-other-state/,Slotkin Supports Bill to End Trump’s Tariffs that Cost Michiganders More Than Any Other State,2026-09-03,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"After Top General Says No Troops at Our Polls, Slotkin Seeks Same Assurances from DOJ, DHS/ICE, FBI and National Guard

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, MS NOW’s Morning Joe reported that Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate...

ICYMI: General Caine Responds to Slotkin, Assures No Plans to Send Troops to Polls in November, Hegseth Silent

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Associated Press reported that General Dan Caine, Chairman of the...

Slotkin Joins Gallego, Colleagues, In Pressing the Israeli Government to Halt Construction Progress for E1 Settlement Project

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined U.S. Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH),...

Slotkin, Schiff, 45 Senators Press Netanyahu to Protect U.S. Citizens, Stop Settler Violence in West Bank

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), in an effort led by Senator Adam Schiff...

Slotkin Statement on Watchdog Filing Complaint Against Jeanine Pirro After Failed Indictment

Complaints filed accuse Pirro of abusing her prosecutorial powers to seek “meritless” indictments against President...

Peters, Slotkin Press Armed Services Republicans for Oversight on Troops Serving Extended Deployments in Iran

SASC Democrats hold Administration accountable for the conditions it has allowed to develop that have left troops...

As President Trump Refuses to Rule it Out, Slotkin Presses Hegseth to Guarantee Military Won’t Interfere in Midterm Elections

Slotkin has sought the same assurances from Pentagon leaders under both parties in 2020 and 2024 WASHINGTON D.C....

Slotkin, Peters, Bergman Press Department of Defense on PFAS Cleanup at Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Camp Grayling

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), and U.S....

Peters, Slotkin Demand Answers from Hegseth on the Reportedly Poor Conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln

USS Lincoln’s deployment has now stretched over 250 days, with over 200 days without a port call WASHINGTON,...

Slotkin, Joins Colleagues in Demanding RFK Jr. Reverse Cancelations of Lifesaving Research Grants for Michiganders

U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and 26 of their...

Slotkin Joins Bipartisan Bill to Support Coast Guard Installations, Allow Cost-Saving Community Partnerships

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Chris Murphy (D-CT), and Lisa...",1,2026-09-04T09:19:37Z,2026-09-04T09:20:58Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/02/after-top-general-says-no-troops-at-our-polls-slotkin-seeks-same-assurances-from-doj-dhs-ice-fbi-and-national-guard/,"After Top General Says No Troops at Our Polls, Slotkin Seeks Same Assurances from DOJ, DHS/ICE, FBI and National Guard",2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, MS NOW’s Morning Joe reported that Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, sent letters to Attorney General Todd Blanche, Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Kash Patel, and Chief of the National Guard General Steven Nordhaus asking for a written response and commitment to keep federal forces and law enforcement agents out of the midterm elections.

Slotkin sent these letters the day after Secretary Mullin refused to rule out that ICE could be sent to polling places to enforce “specific threats.”

Watch the Morning Joe segment here

“As we approach the November 2026 elections, I’d ask you to confirm a simple statement: [DOJ/DHS/FBI/National Guard] will not send armed federal agents to the polls or to unlawfully seize election materials of any kind,” wrote Slotkin. “The President has made it clear through speeches, statements, official guidance, and continued legal action that he is seeking to use all possible tools to interfere with the midterms, to include publicly lamenting that he did not send federal forces to the polls in 2020. So when and if the President orders the use of [DOJ/DHS/FBI/National Guard] in November, it will fall on you to make a fundamental choice on how to respond.”

Read the letters below:

Letter to Attorney General Blanche

Letter to Secretary Mullin

Letter to Director Patel

Letter to General Nordhaus

Background:

Slotkin also sent letters to General of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Caine and Secretary of Defense Hegseth asking for a written response and commitment to keep the U.S. military out of the midterm elections. General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, confirmed in writing that the U.S. military has no plans to deploy federal troops or federalized National Guard members to polling places during the November 2026 midterm elections, and no plans to seize ballots, voting machines, or other election-related materials. Secretary Hegseth has yet to respond.

In previous letters sent in 2020 and 2024 by Slotkin, General Mark Milley, General CQ Brown, Secretary Lloyd Austin, and Secretary Mark Esper, were each able to provide a response and confirm they would follow the law and our constitution—which is clear about military interference in our elections.

###",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/31/icymi-general-caine-responds-to-slotkin-assures-no-plans-to-send-troops-to-polls-in-november-hegseth-silent/,"ICYMI: General Caine Responds to Slotkin, Assures No Plans to Send Troops to Polls in November, Hegseth Silent",2026-08-31,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Associated Press reported that General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has confirmed in writing that the U.S. military has no plans to deploy federal troops or federalized National Guard members to polling places during the November 2026 midterm elections, and no plans to seize ballots, voting machines, or other election-related materials. In his response, Caine noted that “election administration and security remain the fundamental responsibility of state and local officials.”

From the AP:

The highest-ranking officer in the U.S. military says there are no plans to send troops to polling places during November’s midterm congressional elections, addressing concerns among Democrats that the Trump administration could use the military to interfere with the vote.

Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, made the statement in a letter to Michigan Democratic Sen. Elissa Slotkin, who recently asked Caine and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to confirm they won’t send troops to the polls.

“The Joint Force has no plans to send Federal military personnel or Federalized members of the National Guard to polling places during the 2026 elections,” Caine said in the letter to Slotkin, which was obtained Monday by The Associated Press. “Likewise, the Joint Force has no plans to use such personnel to seize ballots, voting machines, or other election-related material.”

Caine, who advises Hegseth and President Donald Trump on military matters, also wrote: “I have neither received nor anticipate receiving any unlawful order concerning the role of the Joint Force in the upcoming November 2026 midterm elections.”

Slotkin told the AP earlier in August that Trump has been laying the groundwork to claim the elections were stolen. She noted that Trump contemplated using the military to seize voting machines after his loss in 2020 and has deployed the National Guard to cities against the wishes of Democratic leaders. He also deployed active duty Marines to Los Angeles during his immigration crackdown in 2025.

This letter comes in response to U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, who sent letters to General of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Caine and Secretary of Defense Hegseth asking for a written response and commitment to keep the U.S. military out of the midterm elections. In previous letters sent by Slotkin, General Mark Milley, General CQ Brown, Secretary Lloyd Austin, and Secretary Mark Esper, were each able to provide a response and confirm they would follow the law and our constitution—which is clear about military interference in our elections.

There has been no response from Secretary Hegseth despite Slotkin’s request for a reply by last Friday and the precedent set by Hegseth’s predecessors.

Read the AP story here.

Read the response from Caine here.

###",1,2026-09-01T09:48:49Z,2026-09-01T09:49:51Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-stops-in-big-rapids-on-day-4-of-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour,PHOTOS: Peters Stops in Big Rapids on Day 4 of 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour,2026-08-28,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"BIG RAPIDS, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) toured Ferris State University’s cybersecurity training facility during his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan. Peters highlighted the need to invest in cyber workforce development programs like Ferris State’s to strengthen U.S. national security, boost our global economic competitiveness, and place more Michiganders in good-paying, in-demand jobs.

“Securing our nation from cyberattacks is one of the most important national security challenges we face, and the work happening right here at Ferris State is helping make sure we have the people and expertise needed to meet that challenge,” Senator Peters said. “Michigan needs talented, well-trained cybersecurity professionals who understand these threats to help prevent attacks before they happen. Developing that workforce is critical not only to our national security, but also to Michigan’s economy and our ability to compete in an increasingly technology-driven world.”

During the event, Peters toured the training facility and viewed real-world cyber training demonstrations with Ferris State Provost Sean Lancaster and Professor Dr. Greg Gogolin.

To view photos from Senator Peters’ stop in Big Rapids, click HERE.

As Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has been a top leader in ensuring our nation is better prepared to defend against cyberattacks. His historic, bipartisan provision to require critical infrastructure owners and operators to report if they experience a substantial cyberattack or if they make a ransomware payment was signed into law ensuring that incident victims receive needed support and important incident information is shared widely to prevent future attacks. Peters’ bipartisan bills to enhance cybersecurity assistance to K-12 educational institutions, bolster cybersecurity for state and local governments, strengthen the federal cybersecurity workforce, and help secure federal information technology supply chains have also been signed into law.

Peters – an avid and longtime motorcycle rider – kicked off his “Thank you, Michigan” tour in Bay City. He then made stops in Alpena, Marquette, and Traverse City, before he will make stops in Grand Rapids and East Lansing. He will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year’s tour – which is Peters’ 10th and last official motorcycle tour.

“I've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,” Peters said. “Representing Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year’s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I’ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.”

###",1,2026-08-28T17:11:49Z,2026-08-28T17:13:14Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-stops-in-grand-rapids-on-day-5-of-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour,PHOTOS: Peters Stops in Grand Rapids on Day 5 of 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour,2026-08-28,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"GRAND RAPIDS, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) visited the new Automation Lab at Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) during his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan. Peters highlighted the $998,000 in federal funding he secured to create the Automation Lab and strengthen GRCC’s regional workforce development efforts. The fully automated facility serves as a training hub for students pursuing high-demand jobs in advanced manufacturing and automation, as well as those already working in the field who need additional training or credentials for promotion. This effort is part of Peters’ long legacy of fighting to strengthen Michigan’s robust manufacturing sector, expand skills training opportunities, and help place more Michiganders in good paying, in demand jobs.

“GRCC excels at preparing students to get good-paying, in-demand jobs right out of school,” said Senator Peters. “This state-of-the-art and fully automated training facility will not only strengthen those courses, but also GRCC’s efforts to connect students with local employers ahead of graduation to help keep that talent in Michigan. This level of dedication and community investment is remarkable, and why I was proud to help secure nearly $1 million in federal funding to build the new lab.”

Peters toured GRCC’s new, state-of-the-art training facility with GRCC Provost and Executive Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Sheila Jones, GRCC Professor John Doneth, Ingrid Tighe, President of the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, and Cody Langlois, a graduate of GRCC’s Manufacturing & Applied Technology Program. During the tour, GRCC staff led Peters through demonstrations of cutting-edge robotics equipment that will be used for classroom instruction for the first time this fall semester.

“My experience at GRCC gave me the hands-on skills I needed to prepare for a good-paying career in advanced manufacturing right here in West Michigan,” said Cody Langlois, a graduate of GRCC’s Manufacturing & Applied Technology Program and current employee at JR Automation. “I’m grateful to Senator Peters for supporting GRCC and helping to secure the federal funding for this new lab. His support is creating opportunities for the next generation of Michigan manufacturing workers, and I’m excited to see other students come through this lab and find the same kind of opportunity that GRCC helped provide for me.”

“I applaud Senator Peters for his steadfast, unwavering commitment to American manufacturing,” said Ingrid Tighe, President of the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, the Michigan representative of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program, part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). “The investment in this critical program will not only support students but countless manufacturers in the region who need good talent to grow and thrive. In addition to supporting this project, the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center appreciates everything Senator Peters has done to support our state’s robust manufacturing sector and set Michigan workers up for success.”

To view photos from Senator Peters’ stop in Grand Rapids, click HERE.

Peters has consistently prioritized investing in American manufacturing and workforce development. Peters helped author and pass into law the CHIPS and Science Act to boost U.S. manufacturing of semiconductor chips, strengthen critical domestic supply chains, and create good-paying American jobs. The CHIPS and Science Act additionally increased funding for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program, which supports MEPs like the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC). Peters helped enact bipartisan legislation that expanded access to career and technical education (CTE) opportunities outside of the traditional four-year degree career pathway. Peters also introduced bipartisan legislation that was signed into law to allow more veterans to use their GI bill benefits toward securing a registered apprenticeship.

Peters – an avid and longtime motorcycle rider – kicked off his “Thank you, Michigan” tour in Bay City. He then made stops in Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, and Grand Rapids, before he will conclude the tour in East Lansing. He will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year’s tour – which is Peters’ 10th and last official motorcycle tour.

“I've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,” Peters said. “Representing Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year’s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I’ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.”

###",1,2026-08-29T11:31:28Z,2026-08-29T11:32:37Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-stops-in-walker-on-day-5-of-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour,PHOTOS: Peters Stops in Walker on Day 5 of 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour,2026-08-28,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WALKER, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) toured the Humane Society of West Michigan in Walker during his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan. Peters highlighted the need to reauthorize his Pet and Women Safety (PAWS) Act that helps protect domestic violence survivors and their pets. The PAWS Act grant program provides funding to facilities that harbor survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence, along with their pets, as well as the animal shelters that partner with domestic violence service providers. Since the grant program was first funded, there has consistently been high demand for PAWS funding. Peters is now leading the effort to protect federal funding for the program by reauthorizing $3 million for the program annually over the next four years.

“Domestic violence is sadly an issue that is all too prevalent in our communities. Unfortunately, we know that in cases of abuse, pets are likely to also become targets, and that abusers will use violence against animals to exert control over their victims.” said Senator Peters. “To me, it’s simple: protecting the PAWS Act means protecting survivors and protecting their pets. That’s why I’m now fighting to extend funding for the program and ensure these resources remain available for shelters in Michigan and across the country.”

During the event, Peters learned how Humane Society of West Michigan assists victims of domestic violence through its Providing Emergency Temporary Shelter (PETS) Network, a program that accepts pets affected by a number of situations, including in cases of domestic violence.

“Victims of domestic violence are often put in the position of having to make an impossible choice between protecting their own life or their pet’s,” said Eric Messing, Executive Director of Humane Society of West Michigan. “That’s why Humane Society of West Michigan is dedicated to providing safe foster homes for these pets and helping victims feel empowered to leave abusive situations. We thank Senator Peters for leading the PAWS Act to support programs like ours that help protect both victims and their four-legged family members from domestic violence.”

“I appreciated having the chance to tell Senator Peters about our PETS Program, a service that can often make the difference between a victim staying in an abusive situation, or seeking out the care they need,” said Ashley Dahl, Humane Society of West Michigan Director of Community Programs. “We thank Senator Peters for coming here to see our work firsthand and appreciate his continued commitment to the protection of domestic violence survivors and their pets.”

“When a victim is deciding whether or not to get the help they need, making sure they can find a safe home for their pet is often a key factor in the process,” Dr. Nikia Belcher – VP of Crisis Services and Community Programs at YWCA West Central Michigan. “We are proud of our partnership with the Humane Society of West Michigan, which helps connect victims with the resources they need to protect their pets. Thank you to Senator Peters for your efforts to reauthorize the PAWS Act, and for being here today to highlight this important issue.”

To view photos from Senator Peters’ stop in Walker, click HERE.

Research has shown that domestic abusers often seek to manipulate or intimidate victims by threatening or harming their pets – with one study finding that up to 84 percent of women entering domestic violence shelters reported their partners had threatened, abused, or killed the family pet. Moreover, nearly half of survivors reported having stayed with their abuser due to fear over what would happen to their pet.

Currently, most domestic violence shelters are not equipped to accommodate pets. The Emergency and Transitional Pet Shelter and Housing Assistance Grant Program – created by Peters’ PAWS Act – helps address this gap by providing support to ensure shelters and transitional housing services can accommodate victims of domestic violence and their companion animals. The PAWS Act also expanded existing federal domestic violence protections to include threats or acts of violence against a survivor’s pet. The law requires the full amount of the survivor’s losses for purposes of restitution in domestic violence and stalking offenses to include any costs incurred for veterinary services relating to physical care for the survivor’s pet.

Protecting animal welfare is something that Peters has long made a priority. In 2022, he introduced the Planning for Animal Wellness Act which was passed by Congress and signed into law. This law helps protect pets and other animals during and in the aftermath of natural disasters by requiring the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to establish an advisory group to offer guidance regarding animal welfare in federal disaster preparedness, response and recovery. Peters is also leading bipartisan legislation to help us better understand and respond to the connection between animal cruelty and interpersonal violence. Peters’ Animal Violence Exposes Real Threat of (AVERT) Future Violence Act would commission a Justice Department study to assess the link between acts of animal cruelty and future violence against others, such as domestic violence and gun violence, and authorize a grant program to support mental health experts, law enforcement, and animal welfare organizations in their efforts to stop animal cruelty and rehabilitate offenders.

Peters – an avid and longtime motorcycle rider – kicked off his “Thank you, Michigan” tour in Bay City. He then made stops in Alpena, Marquette, and Traverse City, before he will make stops in Grand Rapids and East Lansing. He will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year’s tour – which is Peters’ 10th and last official motorcycle tour.

“I've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,” Peters said. “Representing Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year’s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I’ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.”

###",1,2026-08-29T11:31:28Z,2026-08-29T11:32:37Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/28/slotkin-joins-gallego-colleagues-in-pressing-the-israeli-government-to-halt-construction-progress-for-e1-settlement-project/,"Slotkin Joins Gallego, Colleagues, In Pressing the Israeli Government to Halt Construction Progress for E1 Settlement Project",2026-08-28,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined U.S. Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Patty Murray (D-WA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jack Reed (D-RI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Mark Warner (D-VA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ed Markey (D-MA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Peter Welch (D-VT), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) in a joint statement opposing the Israeli government’s decision to issue tenders for the construction of 1,234 housing units in the E1 settlement project, following a joint effort with 45 Senators urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to crack down on settler violence, including against U.S. citizens, and settler expansion in the West Bank.

“Construction in the E1 area would sever East Jerusalem from major Palestinian population centers and make a viable contiguous Palestinian state under a two-state solution far harder to achieve,” wrote the Senators. “For decades, Republican and Democratic administrations have recognized that development in E1 would seriously jeopardize the prospects for a Palestinian state. That concern remains just as urgent today.

“At a time when settler violence — including violence against Palestinian Americans — is reaching unprecedented levels in the West Bank and severe restrictions continue to constrain Palestinian movement and the Palestinian economy, moving forward with construction in E1 risks further destabilizing the West Bank and making a negotiated resolution even more difficult.

“We urge the Israeli government to immediately rescind these tenders, halt settlement expansion in the West Bank, and take urgent action to rein in settler violence. Without a change in course, Israel risks weakening its international standing and undermining its prospects for long-term security,” wrote the Senators. “We also urge the Trump administration to make full use of its existing authorities, including targeted sanctions on individuals and entities.

“The United States must remain committed to a two-state solution that delivers lasting peace and security for both the Jewish, democratic State of Israel and for a future Palestinian state. Construction in E1 would take us further away from that goal.”

###",1,2026-08-29T11:31:28Z,2026-08-29T11:32:37Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-concludes-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour-in-east-lansing,PHOTOS: Peters Concludes 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour in East Lansing,2026-08-28,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"EAST LANSING, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) toured the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) at Michigan State University (MSU) during his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan. Peters highlighted his bipartisan efforts to secure more than $2 billion in public investment for FRIB during his time in Congress.

“The opening of the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams has been a groundbreaking success for Michigan State University and our entire state,” said Senator Peters. “In addition to its contributions to science, FRIB is furthering our state’s economic competitiveness on the national and global stage. That’s why supporting FRIB’s work has been so important. It will continue to spur transformational innovation, strengthen our national security, and create high-paying jobs for future innovators in Michigan.”

During the event, Peters toured FRIB and its new K500 Chip Testing Facility with MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz, FRIB Laboratory Director Thomas Glasmacher, and MSU Professor Dr. Artemis Spyrou.

“Because of sustained bipartisan support in Congress—including the leadership of Senator Peters—MSU designed, built and now operates the premier rare isotope research facility on the planet,” said MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph. D. “FRIB firmly anchors Michigan State as a global epicenter for nuclear science, elevating our university's standing among the top research institutions in the world. That global standing allows us to attract, retain, and activate extraordinary talent. Through FRIB, we are training the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators in high-demand fields.”

“We are honored to welcome Senator Peters back to FRIB as he concludes his career in the U.S. Senate, and we thank him and the entire Michigan delegation for their steadfast support of FRIB for two decades,” said FRIB Laboratory Director Thomas Glasmacher. “We are privileged to operate FRIB as a U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science user facility that enables scientists to make discoveries, while also leveraging technical capabilities in service to the nation—such as our heavy-ion chip-testing facilities.”

“Fundamental basic science, like the experimental nuclear astrophysics research my group conducts at FRIB, is the foundation for innovations that directly improve our daily lives,” said Artemis Spyrou, professor of physics at FRIB and in the MSU Department of Physics and Astronomy. “Through sustained federal support, our research unlocks the mysteries of the universe while building a highly skilled STEM workforce. By coupling world-class science with hands-on training and public engagement, we are actively inspiring and developing the next generation of science and technical leaders.”

To view photos from Senator Peters’ stop in East Lansing, click HERE.

Peters has been a champion for FRIB and Michigan’s world-class research institutions like MSU. In 2015, Peters held a roundtable discussion with academic leaders and researchers from MSU to help craft legislation that was signed into law to strengthen federal investment in U.S. research and development.

FRIB houses the most powerful heavy-ion linear accelerator, which accelerates heavy ions and produces rare isotopes, short-lived atomic nuclei that cannot be found on Earth. FRIB allows researchers to study the properties and fundamental interactions of rare isotopes and nuclear astrophysics and their impact on medicine, national security, and industry, including diagnosing diseases, improving next generation nuclear reactors for energy, and finding processes to destroy nuclear waste. FRIB’s heavy-ion chip-testing facilities—the FRIB Single Event Effects Facility and the K500 Chip Testing Facility—address the national shortage of testing capacity for advanced microelectronics used in industries like spaceflight, wireless technology, and autonomous vehicles. FRIB employs approximately 460 scientists, engineers, and staff, as well as more than 200 students, and brings together over 1,800 scientists to conduct cutting-edge research in Michigan.

Peters – an avid and longtime motorcycle rider – kicked off his “Thank you, Michigan” tour in Bay City. He then made stops in Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing. He rode more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year’s tour – which is Peters’ 10th and last official motorcycle tour.

“I've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,” Peters said. “Representing Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year’s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I’ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.”

###",1,2026-08-30T10:18:21Z,2026-08-30T10:19:31Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-stops-in-traverse-city-on-day-4-of-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour,PHOTOS: Peters Stops in Traverse City on Day 4 of 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour,2026-08-27,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"TRAVERSE CITY, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) visited FishPass in Downtown Traverse City during his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan. Peters highlighted the $22.7 million in Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) funding he secured to help make the FishPass project possible. FishPass replaced the deteriorated Union Street Dam and will reconnect the Boardman/Ottaway River with Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay. Once open, FishPass will sort and selectively pass native fish while blocking harmful invasive species, such as sea lamprey. FishPass is the capstone of a 20-year project to restore more than 100 miles of the Boardman/Ottaway River, strengthening local ecosystems and fisheries.

“It’s an honor be here to see the progress and final touches made to FishPass before this exciting, long-term project is officially open,” said Senator Peters. “FishPass is a reminder of the passion and commitment that Michiganders have for protecting our Great Lakes and natural resources. It shows that we are creating new and innovative solutions for that work. As long as I have the privilege of serving the state of Michigan, I will continue working to protect the Great Lakes, manage invasive species, and safeguard our state’s precious waterways.”

As construction of FishPass nears its completion, Peters toured the site with Traverse City Mayor Amy Shamroe, Angelina Raphael, Vice Chairwomen of the Grand Traverse Band of Chippewa Indians, and Dr. Marc Gaden, Executive Secretary of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission. During the visit, Gaden, a fellow motorcycle rider and annual participant in Peters’ motorcycle tour, ceremoniously dedicated a new pedestrian bridge in honor of Peters. The bridge will be on display in Rotary Square and installed over the Boardman/Ottaway River in the coming months.

“We are fortunate to have such incredible freshwater resources here in Traverse City, and our community has long understood the importance of protecting them,” said Traverse City Mayor Amy Shamroe. “We are grateful to Senator Peters for fighting to secure robust federal funding for FishPass, an investment that will strengthen our waterways while creating exciting new opportunities for research and economic growth in Traverse City.”

“Invasive species remain one of the most serious threats facing the Great Lakes. FishPass demonstrates how innovative solutions can protect native fish while restoring the health of our waterways,” said Marc Gaden, Executive Secretary of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission. “This project is a major priority for our Commission, so we’re thankful for Senator Peters’ efforts to secure the federal resources needed to move FishPass forward.”

To view photos from Senator Peters’ stop in Traverse City, click HERE.

Supporting FishPass is part of Peters’ legacy of protecting the Great Lakes and Michigan’s precious waterways for future generations. FishPass received federal funding from the GLRI, which has provided over $4.7 billion to fund more than 9,000 projects to combat the greatest threats to the Great Lakes, including invasive species, harmful algal blooms and loss of fish and wildlife habitats. Peters has consistently led the charge to fund the GLRI, including by securing $1 billion for the program – the largest investment in GLRI ever – as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Today, he is leading the effort to reauthorize the program for another five years at increased funding levels, which would put GLRI on solid footing for years to come.

Peters also created the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Oil Spill Center of Expertise. Collocated in Ann Arbor and Sault Ste. Marie, the center is actively working to develop best practices for effectively responding to an oil spill in freshwater environments like the Great Lakes.

As Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, Peters plays a key role in uniting Great Lakes lawmakers to coordinate legislative initiatives, funding priorities, and oversight efforts to address the most important issues facing the Great Lakes, such as invasive species, environmental contamination, shoreline erosion, water quality, infrastructure needs, and more.

Peters – an avid and longtime motorcycle rider – kicked off his “Thank you, Michigan” tour in Bay City. He then made stops in Alpena, Marquette, and Traverse City, before he will make stops in Grand Rapids and East Lansing. He will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year’s tour – which is Peters’ 10th and last official motorcycle tour.

“I've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,” Peters said. “Representing Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year’s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I’ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.”

###",1,2026-08-28T17:11:49Z,2026-08-28T17:13:14Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-stops-in-marquette-on-day-3-of-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour,PHOTOS: Peters Stops in Marquette on Day 3 of 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour,2026-08-26,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"MARQUETTE, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) toured the ongoing construction of the new Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti during his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan. Peters secured the $57.6 million investment needed to begin construction of the new facility, which was made possible through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) State Veterans Home Construction Grant Program. Peters toured the construction site alongside Chris LaJoie, Interim Administrator of the Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti, Ryan Engle, Director of Development and Strategic Engagement for Michigan Veteran Homes, and Jim Provost, Chair of the Marquette County Veterans Alliance.

“Veterans in Michigan and across our country made incredible sacrifices to defend our democracy, our freedoms, and our American way of life. We have a duty and moral obligation to support them when they return home, ensuring they can receive the quality care they earned in service. Maintaining safe, comfortable homes for our veteran populations across the state is a key part of that mission,” said Peters, a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve. “This new, state-of-the-art facility will ensure that our state’s veterans continue to receive the skilled nursing care they deserve.”

“Construction of the new D.J. Jacobetti veterans home represents an incredible commitment to our UP veterans,” said Chris LaJoie, Interim Administrator of the Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti. “We’re thankful for the support of partners like Senator Peters, who has been instrumental in securing the federal investment needed to begin construction of this state-of-the-art facility.”

“The new Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti represents a generational promise to those who’ve worn the uniform,” said Ryan Engle, Director of Development and Strategic Engagement for Michigan Veteran Homes. “We’re grateful for the state and federal leaders who’ve championed this cause and our state’s robust veteran population for years, including Senator Gary Peters.”

“The Marquette County Veterans Alliance thanks Senator Gary Peters for his persistent and continuous support for this much-needed replacement of the Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti,” said Jim Provost, Chair of the Marquette County Veterans Alliance. “Having access to private rooms, up-to-date technology, and expanded facilities, along with the outstanding medical, administrative, and support staff, will be greatly appreciated by local veterans and their families. We look forward to seeing the progress and completion of this project in the near future.”

To view photos from Senator Peters’ stop in Marquette, click HERE.

State Veteran Homes are operated by state governments and partner with the VA to provide nursing home, domiciliary, and adult care services to veterans with special medical needs, including many elderly veterans. Federal funds provided by the State Veterans Home Construction Grant Program allow states to make critical facility upgrades or construct new facilities to serve aging veteran populations.

Peters has been committed to supporting our nation’s servicemembers and veterans, including by championing the State Veterans Home Construction Grant Program during his time in the Senate. Peters annually leads a group of bipartisan lawmakers in urging the Senate Appropriations Committee to provide robust funding for the program. Since his appointment to the Senate Appropriations Committee, Peters has also repeatedly helped secure robust funding for the grant program through the annual government funding laws.

Gerald’s Law, which was led by Peters and signed into law in 2024, updated this policy to ensure veterans aren’t penalized if they choose to spend their final days in the comfort of their homes or surrounded by loved ones. The Gerald’s Law Reauthorization of 2026 would extend this expanded benefit, which is currently set to expire in October 2026, through 2030.

In 2021, Peters was inducted into the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor for his efforts to support our nation’s veterans and military. In 2017, Peters was recognized as Legislator of the Year by the Vietnam Veterans of America for authoring the bipartisan Fairness for Veterans Act, which was signed into law as part of the national defense bill. The legislation requires veteran discharge review boards to give liberal consideration to petitions for honorable discharge status if the servicemember has been diagnosed with PTSD, TBI, or other related conditions connected to their military service. In 2022, Peters helped enact the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act – which delivered VA health care and benefits to all generations of toxic-exposed veterans and their survivors for the first time in our nation’s history.

Peters – an avid and longtime motorcycle rider – kicked off his “Thank you, Michigan” tour in Bay City. He will then make stops in Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing. He will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year’s tour – which is Peters’ 10th and last official motorcycle tour.

“I've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,” Peters said. “Representing Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year’s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I’ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.”

###",1,2026-08-27T16:10:01Z,2026-08-27T16:10:50Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/26/slotkin-schiff-45-senators-press-netanyahu-to-protect-u-s-citizens-stop-settler-violence-in-west-bank/,"Slotkin, Schiff, 45 Senators Press Netanyahu to Protect U.S. Citizens, Stop Settler Violence in West Bank",2026-08-26,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), in an effort led by Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) and alongside a coalition of 45 senators, almost the entire Democratic caucus, called on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to curb escalating violence in the West Bank and prevent further incidents amid a sharp rise in intimidation, threats, and attacks in recent weeks. The lawmakers also pressed Israel to complete investigations into the deaths of nine American citizens killed by settlers or security personnel in the West Bank over recent years.

“We urge you to take measures to prevent and intercede in this violence, establish a credible mechanism to investigate violations of law, and to make clear that the Government of Israel will not tolerate violence by its people, just as it does not tolerate violence against its people,” wrote the Senators.

The senators called for a full accounting and investigation of those responsible for the violence. The senators also noted that both President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have voiced opposition to West Bank annexation and violence in the past, concerns Israel’s government has yet to act on.

“Like you, the safety and security of our constituents is of paramount importance,” wrote the Senators. “We urge your government to ensure that Americans in the Israeli-controlled parts of the West Bank are able to enjoy the security and protection of property to which they are entitled. We also hope to see the conditions improved so that Israelis and Palestinians may one day live in peace with each other without the fear of terrorism or lawless violence.”

The Senators joining Schiff, Leader Schumer, and Booker on the letter are U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt-Rochester (D-Del.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawai’i), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawai’i), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

Read the full letter here and below:

Dear Mr. Prime Minister,

We write in shared concern and opposition to the growing levels of violence in the West Bank. Many of us have previously expressed to President Trump that continued settlement expansion and fighting in the West Bank will harm Israel’s long-term security and the prospects for lasting peace, prosperity, and freedom for Israelis and Palestinians alike.

Incidents of fatal violence by settlers have reportedly already surpassed 2025 levels and continue to increase. The last few weeks alone saw a significant surge in violence on both sides, resulting in a large-scale response by Israeli security forces, mass arrests of Palestinians, and reported attacks by settlers on mosques. We urge you to take measures to prevent and intercede in this violence, establish a credible mechanism to investigate violations of law, and to make clear that the Government of Israel will not tolerate violence by its people, just as it does not tolerate violence against its people.

We write particularly on behalf of American citizens who have been killed or threatened in such violence. Many of us have heard first-hand from their families and other constituents who have themselves been threatened without cause by settlers. We have engaged the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem and your embassy in Washington to ensure their protection and appreciate measures taken on their behalf, but a more significant response from your government is clearly needed. We ask for your personal and direct engagement and intervention in order to protect our constituents and their families.

President Trump and Secretary of State Rubio have expressed their opposition to all violence in the West Bank and actions aimed at annexation, but those concerns have gone unaddressed. Now, we urge you to take the following actions:

Issue clear directives to the Israeli Police and Israeli Defense Forces to prevent and intervene in harassment, threats, and actual use of violence, regardless of the perpetrators.

Ensure that all those responsible for harassment, threats, and violence against Palestinians, including Palestinian-Americans, are held accountable through a transparent and credible process. This includes completing investigations into and ensuring accountability for the deaths of nine American citizens who have been killed by settlers or security forces in the West Bank since 2022.

Stop approving additional settlements and stop allowing the construction of, and take steps to remove, illegal outposts in the West Bank.

Like you, the safety and security of our constituents is of paramount importance. We urge your government to ensure that Americans in the Israeli-controlled parts of the West Bank are able to enjoy the security and protection of property to which they are entitled. We also hope to see the conditions improved so that Israelis and Palestinians may one day live in peace with each other without the fear of terrorism or lawless violence.

###",1,2026-08-27T16:10:01Z,2026-08-27T16:10:50Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-stops-in-alpena-on-day-2-of-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour,PHOTOS: Peters Stops in Alpena on Day 2 of 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour,2026-08-25,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"ALPENA, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) stopped at the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary during his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan. Peters, a longtime supporter of the Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary, highlighted the sanctuary’s importance to local tourism, the regional economy, Michigan’s maritime heritage, and Great Lakes preservation efforts. Peters also received a briefing on the sanctuary’s current research priorities and mapping efforts.

“Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary is a critical tourism destination and an integral part of Michigan’s cultural landscape. So, I’m thrilled to be back in Alpena to get an update on the exciting work happening right here,” Peters said. “We must invest in special places like this so that researchers and scientists at Thunder Bay can continue their conservation and research efforts. That's why I've long worked to secure federal funding for the great work done here at Thunder Bay, and I’ll keep pushing to ensure they get the support they need.”

To view photos from Senator Peters’ stop in Alpena, click HERE.

Peters has led numerous efforts to protect and strengthen the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Throughout his time in Congress, Peters has secured robust federal funding to enhance the sanctuary’s Great Lakes restoration, mapping, and historical preservation efforts. Peters also led the bipartisan Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Assessment Act to recognize historically significant underwater areas in the Great Lakes as National Marine Sanctuaries, aiming to increase local tourism and boost Michigan’s economy.

Located in Lake Huron, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary was established in 2000 to protect one of the nation’s most historically significant collections of shipwrecks. In 2014, the sanctuary expanded from 448 to 4,300 square miles, making it the nation’s largest marine protected area focused on underwater cultural heritage sites. Within this new boundary, approximately 100 known shipwreck sites exist, while historic research indicates as many as 100 additional sites in the area remain undiscovered.

Peters – an avid and longtime motorcycle rider – kicked off his “Thank you, Michigan” tour in Bay City. After Alpena, he will make stops in Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing. He will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year’s tour – which is Peters’ 10th and last official motorcycle tour.

“I've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,” Peters said. “Representing Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year’s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I’ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.”

###",1,2026-08-26T05:33:32Z,2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/25/slotkin-statement-on-watchdog-filing-complaint-against-jeanine-pirro-after-failed-indictment/,Slotkin Statement on Watchdog Filing Complaint Against Jeanine Pirro After Failed Indictment,2026-08-25,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Complaints filed accuse Pirro of abusing her prosecutorial powers to seek “meritless” indictments against President Donald Trump’s “perceived political enemies”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following statement regarding reporting of a legal watchdog organization’s filing of a complaint against U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro and her team. This comes at the near six month mark of a grand jury refusing to indict Senator Slotkin, Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO), Rep. Maggie, Goodlander (D-NH), Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-PA), and Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) over a video restating the law.

The filing accuses Pirro of violating her ethical duties when attempting to indict Senator Slotkin, Senator Kelly, and their colleagues under instruction from President Trump, in a blatant misuse of the power of her office to go after the President’s perceived political enemies.

“Six months ago, Jeanine Pirro saluted President Trump and tried to criminally indict me and five colleagues for a 90-second video that simply restated the law.

“That was on top of doing the same to a number of other public figures who the President perceived as enemies of the state.

“It was the weaponization of the government, demonstrating an amazing disregard for the law, and for her oath of office. She should be investigated and held accountable.”

###",1,2026-08-26T05:33:32Z,2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-kicks-off-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour-in-bay-city,PHOTOS: Peters Kicks Off 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour in Bay City,2026-08-24,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"BAY CITY, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) kicked off his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan at Bay City Fire Department Station #2, where he saw how federal funding he secured will help clean up toxic PFAS contamination on the property. During his visit, Peters also highlighted an additional $1.3 million federal grant he secured, funded by his bipartisan Fire Grants and Safety Act, which enabled the Bay City, Midland, and Saginaw fire departments to purchase new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBAs). SCBAs allow firefighters to breathe safely during dangerous rescues.

“Our firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities. We have a responsibility to make sure they have the tools and resources they need to stay safe on the job,” Peters said. “For years, hazardous PFAS chemicals from firefighting foams have posed serious health risks to firefighters, which is why it’s so important that we clean up contaminated sites like this one. I was proud to secure nearly $1 million to help Bay City clean up this site and protect the brave firefighters who serve this community.”

Peters continued, “I’m also proud that fire departments across the Bay Region have been able to use grant programs I fought for to purchase critical safety equipment that helps keep first responders safe when they go into harm’s way.”

“Senator Peters has worked to secure robust federal investments to help the Bay City Fire Department replace lifesaving equipment and address toxic PFAS contamination at Fire Station #2,” said Kurt Corradi, Bay City Fire Chief. “I’ve been proud to partner with him to protect our firefighters and keep our communities safe, and I was honored to welcome him to Bay City on this year’s motorcycle tour.”

“Addressing the PFAS contamination at Fire Station #2 has been a long-term priority for Bay City, but identifying a revenue stream became one of the biggest challenges for getting remediation work started,” said Bay City Public Safety Director Caleb Rowell. “Thanks to our partnership with Senator Peters, we were able to secure the nearly $1 million investment needed to begin the process of cleaning up this site. Once finished, this project will help protect our firefighters and the neighboring communities from any potential impacts of these harmful chemicals.”

“Today, firefighters in Midland, Bay City, and Saginaw respond to emergencies using top-of-the-line safe breathing equipment thanks to funding made possible by Senator Peters’ Fire Grants and Safety Act,” said Joshua Mosher, City of Midland Fire Chief. “Our departments were proud to work collaboratively to secure this robust funding, and we appreciate Senator Peters’ long-term support of fire and emergency response here in the Bay Region.”

“Senator Peters understands that local fire departments need to have the best equipment available to protect first responders when they enter harm’s way,” said Brandon Hausbeck, City of Saginaw Fire Chief. “Not only does this federal investment help us protect our firefighters, these new breathing apparatuses put our department in compliance with current regulations, which wouldn’t have been possible without this funding.”

To view photos from Senator Peters’ tour in Bay City, click HERE.

Peters secured $959,000 in government funding legislation signed into law earlier this year to support the excavation and demolition of existing fire station property where PFAS contamination was detected. Peters also advocated for and helped secure a $1.3 million federal grant for a joint application between the Bay City Fire Department, Midland Fire Department, and Saginaw Fire Department. The funding allowed the departments to purchase a total of 120 SCBAs, which are now in use across each department. The grant funding comes from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, which Peters passed bipartisan legislation into law to reauthorize in 2024.

Peters has a long legacy of fighting to address toxic PFAS chemicals. In September 2018, Peters convened the first-ever hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, and has held numerous hearings since to continue to conduct oversight and hold Administrations accountable to address PFAS. Peters also authored bipartisan legislation that was signed into law to reduce the spread of PFAS chemicals at commercial airports. In 2022, Peters’ bill to help protect firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure in the line of duty was also signed into law.

Securing this funding for Bay City is also part of Peters’ legacy of delivering for firefighters and first responders in Michigan. Peters led the charge to extend the federal programs that are used by local fire departments to address staffing needs, purchase equipment, develop fire training and education programs, and improve emergency medical services.

Peters – an avid and longtime motorcycle rider – kicked off his “Thank you, Michigan” tour in Bay City. He will then make stops in Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing. He will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year’s tour – which is Peters’ 10th and last official motorcycle tour.

“I've always said the best way to travel across our state is on a motorcycle,” Peters said. “Representing Michigan in the U.S. Senate has been the absolute honor of my lifetime. So, this year’s tour is about saying thank you to all of the amazing people and communities I’ve been able to partner with during my career to help make Michigan an amazing place to work, live, and raise a family.”

###",1,2026-08-25T05:31:37Z,2026-08-25T05:33:09Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/24/peters-slotkin-press-armed-services-republicans-for-oversight-on-troops-serving-extended-deployments-in-iran/,"Peters, Slotkin Press Armed Services Republicans for Oversight on Troops Serving Extended Deployments in Iran",2026-08-24,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"SASC Democrats hold Administration accountable for the conditions it has allowed to develop that have left troops stranded indefinitely

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), alongside U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and fellow Senate Armed Services Committee Democrats, called on Chairman Roger Wicker to hold a hearing on the Trump Administration’s failure to support troops who are currently experiencing indefinite extended deployments tied to the Administration’s war in Iran. The effort comes after reports of dwindling supplies and deteriorating conditions aboard ships like the USS Abraham Lincoln and at bases across the region.

“The toll this unauthorized, disastrous war is taking on our troops is unconscionable,” wrote the Senators. “Troops are suffering because of this Administration’s inability to end this war or make the environment safe enough for our servicemembers to be delivered the food, medication or supplies they need.”

The Senators pointed to mounting evidence that extended deployments with no end in sight are taking a serious physical, emotional, and mental toll on servicemembers, and said the American people and military families deserve honest answers.

“Military families and the American people deserve answers about when our heroes will come home and how DoD plans to restore military readiness that has been drained by this war,” wrote the Senators. “Supply shortages and unjustified extended deployments also have a real impact on our ability to recruit and retain our servicemembers – why would anyone sign up to fight when they fear they will be exploited and left without supplies, recourse or support? Not only do we owe our troops the bare minimum respect and support they deserve, but it is a recruitment and retention imperative.”

“The stakes couldn’t be higher. The longer this Administration fails to articulate a plan to end this disastrous war, the longer our brave servicemembers will pay the price.”

The Senators also called for the Committee to examine the conditions driving down morale, the strain on military families struggling to make ends meet, and the Administration’s plan for ending the extended deployments tied to the war.

Read the full letter below:

Dear Chairman Wicker:

We request that you convene a public Armed Services Committee hearing with Department of Defense (DoD) leadership regarding the poor planning and mismanagement of extended deployments to support Iran operations and the impact on our troops. Recent reports of sailors suffering from severe mental health issues amid deteriorating conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln have only added to a disturbing pattern of failures to adequately plan and support our troops, who have been away from their families indefinitely as the Iran War drags on.

On August 11, Military Times reported that multiple sailors on board the USS Abraham Lincoln currently supporting Iran operations attempted to jump overboard, a heartbreaking decision in effort to escape the mental health toll of an extended deployment that was planned to end in May but is now at 9 months and counting. Horrifying messages from military families described other poor conditions onboard the Lincoln, including food rationing, rotten meals, shortages of supplies like water and soap, overflowing toilets, broken facilities and disrupted mail delivery. It took nine months for the Navy to relieve the Lincoln with the USS George Washington, after conditions had reached such severity that military families directly confronted the Acting Secretary of the Navy. This has revealed the real impact of unplanned deployment extensions on our ability to maintain and logistically support our ships in a contested environment.

This is not the first time during this war that we have seen the consequences of extended deployments onboard an aircraft carrier or even other ships. Sailors on the USS Ford experienced hundreds of broken toilets and significant damage from a non-combat fire that injured multiple sailors and affected 100 sleeping berths and forced it to redirect to Greece for emergency repair. After this emergency repair, the Ford was again sent back to the Red Sea to support Iran operations – eventually completing 11 months of deployment, even though the Navy tries to limit deployments to seven months. Military families of servicemembers on board the multiple ships as part of the Carrier Strike Groups (CSGs) in the region have reported emotional and financial strain from the unplanned extensions, struggling to balance work and childcare and caught in limbo with disrupted plans every time orders are extended.

Both the Lincoln and the Ford Carrier Strike Groups (CSGs) were redirected from their original missions to support President Trump’s illegal wars of choice. The Lincoln originally deployed in November to conduct routine patrols in the Indo-Pacific, but was redirected to the Middle East in January to support the start of the Iran operations. The Ford ultimately served a whopping 11 months at sea – redirected three times from an original mission to support deterrence in Europe, to operations in the Caribbean Sea and against Venezuela, to Iran operations. This Administration has failed to explain why it has insisted on stretching our sailors in this way without adequate planning – let alone for unauthorized wars of choice.

The strain on our troops is not confined to the Navy. In fact, our offices and press have heard story after story of Soldiers and Airmen, including National Guardsmen and Reservists, seeing their deployments extended with uncertainty about when they will be relieved by other units and can return home to their families. Bases in the Middle East originally designed to support a specific footprint have been stretched to support a much larger scale of units now stationed there – and conditions are deteriorating as too many people meet too little space and supplies.

The toll this illegal, disastrous war is taking on our troops is unconscionable. Troops are suffering because of this Administration’s inability to end this war or make the environment safe enough for our servicemembers to be delivered the food, medication or supplies they need.

All these developments strongly indicate a systemic failure of planning and adaptation by the Secretary of Defense and senior DoD leaders. It is appalling that in month seven of the Iran War, DoD still continues to fail to anticipate and plan for the second-order consequences of the President’s choices to continue this war with no end.

Military families and the American people deserve answers about when our heroes will come home and how DoD plans to restore military readiness that has been drained by this war. Supply shortages and unjustified extended deployments also have a real impact on our ability to recruit and retain our servicemembers – why would anyone sign up to fight when they fear they will be exploited and left without supplies, recourse or support? Not only do we owe our troops the bare minimum respect and support they deserve, but it is a recruitment and retention imperative.

The stakes couldn’t be higher. The longer this Administration fails to articulate a plan to end this disastrous war, the longer our brave servicemembers will pay the price.

We request a public hearing to help Congress and the public better understand how we got here and how the Department will ensure it never happens again. We call on the Department to explain to Congress, military families and the American people how it assesses and justifies the readiness impacts of these extended deployments, how it plans for relief rotations and what accounts for the systemic failures to provide troops with the support they need to do the mission the President has illegally asked of them. Importantly, the Department must justify and detail exactly how it plans to sustain our troops in this war indefinitely — as the President’s negotiations continue to fail.

As Members of this Committee, we take seriously our responsibility to make sure the U.S. military is properly led, well-resourced, supported and able to conduct its missions. We believe it is critical that we conduct public oversight to ensure that whenever we ask the military to answer the Nation’s call, we will have their backs – not leave them stranded with no support. For these reasons, we urge the Committee to convene a hearing at the earliest opportunity to examine these issues directly with DoD leaders.

###",1,2026-08-25T05:31:37Z,2026-08-25T05:33:09Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/18/as-president-trump-refuses-to-rule-it-out-slotkin-presses-hegseth-to-guarantee-military-wont-interfere-in-midterm-elections/,"As President Trump Refuses to Rule it Out, Slotkin Presses Hegseth to Guarantee Military Won’t Interfere in Midterm Elections",2026-08-18,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Slotkin has sought the same assurances from Pentagon leaders under both parties in 2020 and 2024

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) sent letters to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine, calling on them to publicly confirm that the U.S. military will play no role in this November’s elections. President Donald Trump has stated he would not rule out sending ICE or the military to the polls in November.

Federal law already makes it a crime to use the military to interfere in elections, including seizing ballots or voting equipment. But Hegseth has repeatedly declined to rule out using troops in this way, going so far as to make false claims to Congress to get out of answering. President Trump said earlier this year that he regretted not deploying the military after the 2020 election and that he would consider doing this during the November election.

“The nonpartisan tradition of military service and the constitutional guardrails that prevent our military from becoming a domestic police force for one political party are essential to maintaining our democracy,” wrote Senator Slotkin. “Thus, our nation’s senior-most defense and security leaders are the final failsafe for our democracy.”

In 2020, then-Representative Slotkin joined then-Representative Mikie Sherrill in submitting questions for the record to Secretary of Defense Mark Esper and Joint Chiefs Chairman General Mark Milley, asking whether the military would ever be directed to interfere in an election and whether they would refuse such an order if given one. General Milley swiftly rejected the notion that the military would be used in any election duties, as that would violate the Constitution and laws of the United States.

In 2024, Slotkin and Sherrill again wrote to then-Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Joint Chiefs Chairman General CQ Brown, seeking renewed assurance that the military’s nonpartisan tradition and constitutional limits would hold ahead of that year’s elections.

Slotkin has raised the issue repeatedly as a member of the Senate Armed Services and Homeland Security Committees, questioning Hegseth and other Trump administration nominees about their willingness to follow illegal orders, pressing Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin on the possibility of deploying ICE to polling sites, and questioning Defense Department officials and NORTHCOM’s commander during Senate Armed Services Committee hearings.

Slotkin has introduced the Protect Our Polls Act, which would block President Trump from sending federal law enforcement or uniformed military to interfere in elections.

Read the letters to Secretary Hegseth here and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Caine here.

Read one pager on the letters here.

###",1,2026-08-19T05:29:02Z,2026-08-19T05:30:24Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/18/slotkin-peters-bergman-press-department-of-defense-on-pfas-cleanup-at-wurtsmith-air-force-base-camp-grayling/,"Slotkin, Peters, Bergman Press Department of Defense on PFAS Cleanup at Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Camp Grayling",2026-08-18,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"As President Trump Refuses to Rule it Out, Slotkin Presses Hegseth to Guarantee Military Won’t Interfere in Midterm Elections

Slotkin has sought the same assurances from Pentagon leaders under both parties in 2020 and 2024 WASHINGTON D.C....

Peters, Slotkin Demand Answers from Hegseth on the Reportedly Poor Conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln

USS Lincoln’s deployment has now stretched over 250 days, with over 200 days without a port call WASHINGTON,...

Slotkin, Joins Colleagues in Demanding RFK Jr. Reverse Cancelations of Lifesaving Research Grants for Michiganders

U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and 26 of their...

Slotkin Joins Bipartisan Bill to Support Coast Guard Installations, Allow Cost-Saving Community Partnerships

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Chris Murphy (D-CT), and Lisa...

Slotkin Statement on Voting No on Confirmation of Todd Blanche as Attorney General

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the follow statement after voting against...

Slotkin Statement on Voting No in Committee on Draft Partisan Farm Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee,...

After Bipartisan Effort Led by Slotkin, Army Selects Grayling as Part of Initiative to Push Drone Testing and Research

Michigan Selected for New Army Industry Testing Initiative – One of Only Four Sites...

Slotkin, Cruz Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help Protect Houses of Worship

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and U.S. Representatives Brad Knott...

Slotkin, Ricketts Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Keep Biotech Industry in America, Not China

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the Biotech...

After Further Violence from ICE, Slotkin, Peters Demand Hearing on ICE’s Deadly Use of Force

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), all...",1,2026-08-19T05:29:02Z,2026-08-19T05:30:24Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/17/peters-slotkin-demand-answers-from-hegseth-on-the-reportedly-poor-conditions-on-the-uss-abraham-lincoln/,"Peters, Slotkin Demand Answers from Hegseth on the Reportedly Poor Conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln",2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"USS Lincoln’s deployment has now stretched over 250 days, with over 200 days without a port call

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) demanded accountability from Secretary Pete Hegseth over conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. The effort comes after reports of food and water shortages, plumbing issues, and mental health emergencies, including multiple reported attempts by sailors to go overboard.

“We write regarding the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln and mounting evidence that conditions aboard the carrier have deteriorated to the point that the safety and wellbeing of its crew could be compromised. These are deeply troubling reports, and the American people deserve honest answers,” the Senators wrote.

The Senators called for a full accounting of medical and mental health support aboard the carrier, the state of discipline and morale, hygiene and food conditions, details of the man-overboard incidents, and support offered to military families.

“As the Secretary of Defense, you are accountable to the men and women who serve our nation. It is time for you to demonstrate leadership, rather than peddle excuses. The servicemembers we send into harm’s way deserve nothing less,” the Senators concluded.

In addition to Slotkin and Peters the letter was signed by Senators Jack Reed (D-RI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Senator Chris Coons (D-DE).

Read the full text of the letter here:

Dear Secretary Hegseth,

We write regarding the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln and mounting evidence that conditions aboard the carrier have deteriorated to the point that the safety and wellbeing of its crew could be compromised. These are deeply troubling reports, and the American people deserve honest answers.

The USS Lincoln departed San Diego on November 21, 2025. The ship has now been deployed for more than 250 days, including over 200 consecutive days without a port call, setting a modern-day record for continuous time at sea for a U.S. aircraft carrier. Family members of the sailors and Marines serving aboard have received urgent messages describing conditions that should alarm you, and everyone serving in a position of leadership at the Pentagon, to include concerns about exhaustion, food and water shortages, and mental health crises serious enough that multiple sailors reportedly attempted to go overboard.

In response to these reports, you publicly stated that the conditions aboard the carrier have been “completely misrepresented.” Even more galling, when asked by reporters about the conditions on the Lincoln, President Trump dismissed the concerns of the families and stated that the Lincoln had not been deployed “nearly long enough.”

Our sailors and Marines signed up to serve and to be treated with respect. They did not sign up to be kept at sea indefinitely with no announced return date and, by multiple accounts, without reliable food, hot water, or working plumbing. That is not how we treat the men and women we ask to carry out this mission.

This situation was preventable, and the conditions aboard the Lincoln are nearly identical to the issues faced by the USS Ford when it conducted an extended deployment that ended earlier this year. The USS Lincoln was redirected to the Middle East as the war with Iran began and has remained there as that war has dragged on with no clear endpoint. This is a symptom of poor planning by both you and the President and exacerbated by the deeply unsound decision to start a war with Iran. Open-ended deployments driven by an open-ended war have real consequences for our servicemembers, and we are seeing those consequences now.

Recent press reports indicate that the USS George Washington will be deployed to the Middle East to relieve the USS Abraham Lincoln. While that is welcome news, the Department’s mismanagement of carrier deployments also means that the U.S. will not have an aircraft carrier in the Pacific for the foreseeable future. However, ensuring the USS Lincoln returns to port takes precedence, and it is incumbent on the Department to inform Congress, and the families, on the plan and timeline to get the crew home. Denial and defensiveness are not acceptable responses. Congress and these families need accountability.

Given the seriousness of these reports, we request written answers to the following:

What is the current timeline for the USS Lincoln’s relief and return to homeport, and what specific operational requirements are driving continued extensions of this deployment?

Was the crew informed that the deployment could be extended indefinitely? Have any members of the crew been changed out since the beginning of this deployment, and if so, how many?

Has there been any degradation in the operational capability of the USS Lincoln or her airwing?

What mental health resources are being provided to the crew?

Have there been any suicides aboard the ship during this deployment? How many instances of detected suicidal ideation or attempted self-harm, including attempts to go overboard, has the Department recorded?

What other medical resources are available aboard the ship, and are resources sufficient to meet the crew’s needs given the length of this deployment?

What chaplain resources are available to the crew, and have they been adequate to the scale of need aboard the ship?

What is the current state of good order and discipline aboard the USS Lincoln?

What is the hygiene and healthy food situation on board, including the status of reported plumbing failures, water contamination, and food shortages?

What is the extent of illness or injury aboard the ship, including full details of the reported man-overboard incident and any other similar incidents?

What is the state of the families of the sailors and Marines aboard the USS Lincoln? What resources are being provided to them, and are they being kept informed on a regular basis about the status of the deployment and their loved ones’ wellbeing?

Will the Department authorize a bipartisan congressional delegation to visit the Lincoln to conduct firsthand oversight of conditions aboard the ship?

As the Secretary of Defense, you are accountable to the men and women who serve our nation. It is time for you to demonstrate leadership, rather than peddle excuses. The servicemembers we send into harm’s way deserve nothing less.

###",1,2026-08-18T05:27:41Z,2026-08-18T05:29:06Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/17/slotkin-joins-colleagues-in-demanding-rfk-jr-reverse-cancelations-of-lifesaving-research-grants-for-michiganders/,"Slotkin, Joins Colleagues in Demanding RFK Jr. Reverse Cancelations of Lifesaving Research Grants for Michiganders",2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and 26 of their Democratic colleagues in the Senate in demanding that Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. reverse the Department’s destructive cancelations of lifesaving health research grants administered by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ).

The cancellation of these grants ended life-saving research on surgery-related infections, maternal and children’s health, and the health consequences of COVID-19 in Michigan.

In a letter sent today to Kennedy, the Senators raised concerns about the impact of HHS’s mass cancelations of these research grants.

They called on Kennedy to immediately restore full funding to research projects affected by the cancelations and full funding is obligated as required by law: “At a time when medical errors kill hundreds of thousands of Americans annually, when healthcare costs are crushing family budgets, and when we face unprecedented health challenges, your department has chosen to sabotage the very research designed to solve these problems. This is not leadership—this is sabotage of public health. And it must end, immediately.”

“The American people deserve a healthcare system informed by the best available evidence. They deserve research that makes their care safer, more effective, and more affordable. Congress has provided the resources to support this vital work. It is your responsibility to ensure these resources are used as intended,” the Senators concluded.

The letter was signed by also signed by U.S. Senators Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tina Smith (D-MN), Jack Reed (D-RI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Gary Peters (D-MI), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Mark Warner (D-VA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL).

Full text of the Senators’ letter is available here.

###",1,2026-08-18T05:27:41Z,2026-08-18T05:29:06Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-slotkin-demand-answers-from-hegseth-on-the-reportedly-poor-conditions-on-the-uss-abraham-lincoln,"Peters, Slotkin Demand Answers from Hegseth on the Reportedly Poor Conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln",2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) demanded accountability from Secretary Pete Hegseth over conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. The effort comes after reports of food and water shortages, plumbing issues, and mental health emergencies, including multiple reported attempts by sailors to go overboard.

“We write regarding the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln and mounting evidence that conditions aboard the carrier have deteriorated to the point that the safety and wellbeing of its crew could be compromised. These are deeply troubling reports, and the American people deserve honest answers,” the Senators wrote.

The Senators called for a full accounting of medical and mental health support aboard the carrier, the state of discipline and morale, hygiene and food conditions, details of the man-overboard incidents, and support offered to military families.

“As the Secretary of Defense, you are accountable to the men and women who serve our nation. It is time for you to demonstrate leadership, rather than peddle excuses. The servicemembers we send into harm’s way deserve nothing less,” the Senators concluded.

In addition to Peters and Slotkin, the letter was signed by Senators Jack Reed (D-RI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Senator Chris Coons (D-DE).

Read the full text of the letter here:

Dear Secretary Hegseth,

We write regarding the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln and mounting evidence that conditions aboard the carrier have deteriorated to the point that the safety and wellbeing of its crew could be compromised. These are deeply troubling reports, and the American people deserve honest answers.

The USS Lincoln departed San Diego on November 21, 2025. The ship has now been deployed for more than 250 days, including over 200 consecutive days without a port call, setting a modern-day record for continuous time at sea for a U.S. aircraft carrier. Family members of the sailors and Marines serving aboard have received urgent messages describing conditions that should alarm you, and everyone serving in a position of leadership at the Pentagon, to include concerns about exhaustion, food and water shortages, and mental health crises serious enough that multiple sailors reportedly attempted to go overboard.

In response to these reports, you publicly stated that the conditions aboard the carrier have been “completely misrepresented.” Even more galling, when asked by reporters about the conditions on the Lincoln, President Trump dismissed the concerns of the families and stated that the Lincoln had not been deployed “nearly long enough.”

Our sailors and Marines signed up to serve and to be treated with respect. They did not sign up to be kept at sea indefinitely with no announced return date and, by multiple accounts, without reliable food, hot water, or working plumbing. That is not how we treat the men and women we ask to carry out this mission.

This situation was preventable, and the conditions aboard the Lincoln are nearly identical to the issues faced by the USS Ford when it conducted an extended deployment that ended earlier this year. The USS Lincoln was redirected to the Middle East as the war with Iran began and has remained there as that war has dragged on with no clear endpoint. This is a symptom of poor planning by both you and the President and exacerbated by the deeply unsound decision to start a war with Iran. Open-ended deployments driven by an open-ended war have real consequences for our servicemembers, and we are seeing those consequences now.

Recent press reports indicate that the USS George Washington will be deployed to the Middle East to relieve the USS Abraham Lincoln. While that is welcome news, the Department’s mismanagement of carrier deployments also means that the U.S. will not have an aircraft carrier in the Pacific for the foreseeable future. However, ensuring the USS Lincoln returns to port takes precedence, and it is incumbent on the Department to inform Congress, and the families, on the plan and timeline to get the crew home. Denial and defensiveness are not acceptable responses. Congress and these families need accountability.

Given the seriousness of these reports, we request written answers to the following:

- What is the current timeline for the USS Lincoln’s relief and return to homeport, and what specific operational requirements are driving continued extensions of this deployment?

- Was the crew informed that the deployment could be extended indefinitely? Have any members of the crew been changed out since the beginning of this deployment, and if so, how many?

- Has there been any degradation in the operational capability of the USS Lincoln or her airwing?

- What mental health resources are being provided to the crew?

- Have there been any suicides aboard the ship during this deployment? How many instances of detected suicidal ideation or attempted self-harm, including attempts to go overboard, has the Department recorded?

- What other medical resources are available aboard the ship, and are resources sufficient to meet the crew’s needs given the length of this deployment?

- What chaplain resources are available to the crew, and have they been adequate to the scale of need aboard the ship?

- What is the current state of good order and discipline aboard the USS Lincoln?

- What is the hygiene and healthy food situation on board, including the status of reported plumbing failures, water contamination, and food shortages?

- What is the extent of illness or injury aboard the ship, including full details of the reported man-overboard incident and any other similar incidents?

- What is the state of the families of the sailors and Marines aboard the USS Lincoln? What resources are being provided to them, and are they being kept informed on a regular basis about the status of the deployment and their loved ones’ wellbeing?",1,2026-08-19T05:29:02Z,2026-08-19T05:30:24Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-peters-announces-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour-across-michigan,Senator Peters Announces 10th & Final Motorcycle Tour Across Michigan,2026-08-14,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"DETROIT, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) announced that he will begin his 10th and final official motorcycle tour across Michigan on Monday, August 24th. The five-day “Thank You, Michigan” tour will make stops in Bay City, Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing. Throughout the tour, Peters will be joined on the ride by veterans, union workers, motorcycle safety advocates, and constituents.

“This year’s motorcycle tour is all about saying thank you to the amazing people and communities that I’ve been proud to represent during my time in Congress,” said Senator Peters. “There’s no better way to travel around Michigan than on a motorcycle, so I’m looking forward to riding across our beautiful state to meet with Michiganders and celebrate all that we’ve accomplished together.”

Peters will start the tour in Bay City on Monday, August 24th and conclude the tour in East Lansing on Friday, August 28th. Additional information regarding his stops will be announced in the coming days.

Peters, an avid and long-time motorcycle rider who founded the bipartisan Senate Motorcycle Caucus, will ride more than 1,000 miles across the state on this year’s tour.

###",1,2026-08-15T05:23:20Z,2026-08-15T05:24:50Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-the-job-for-michigan-local-leaders-highlight-peters-work-to-support-michigan-communities-after-2020-midland-flood,ON THE JOB FOR MICHIGAN: Local Leaders Highlight Peters’ Work to Support Michigan Communities After 2020 Midland Flood,2026-08-12,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – In a new “On the Job” video from U.S. Senator Gary Peters’ (MI) office, local leaders highlight Peters’ efforts to help Michiganders recover in the wake of the catastrophic 2020 Midland flood. After the Edenville and Sanford dams failed in May 2020, many communities in the Great Lakes Bay Region faced widespread destruction of homes, businesses, and properties from the historic floodwaters. In response, Peters secured more than $30 million in federal funding to help these communities recover and rebuild. Peters also authored bipartisan legislation to improve the process of applying for federal disaster assistance to support communities like Sanford and others that were devastated by the flooding. The video is part of the On the Job for Michigan series, which highlights Peters’ leadership and advocacy on behalf of Michigan constituents and communities.

“The senator’s office was the most helpful in dealing with FEMA. It was extremely helpful to have the senator in our corner,” said Bridgette Gransden, Midland County Administrator. “We’re continuing to work with our state legislators, our federal legislators, to improve infrastructure in the community. I really think it’s important to acknowledge what the senator has done as far as advocating for the Midland community, the Great Lakes Bay Region.”

“We actually began some work in fall of 2020 to help very localized areas to recover and rebuild. If that entire process were streamlined, that would take a huge layer right off of the work that these people are doing, literally, with their sleeves rolled up and their mud boots on,” said Diane Middleton, Vice President of Advocacy, Midland Business Alliance.

“I remember Senator Peters had been here during the flood. We decided to contact Senator Peters’ office to see if he could help simplify the communications and help us get to the right person,” said Dolores Porte, Village of Sanford President. “When you're in the middle of a disaster, a lot of paperwork to fill out. It’s pretty daunting. If that simplification act had been in place, we wouldn't have had to fill out two different sets of paperwork with two different sets of people.”

Porte continued, “Small towns are about seeing people face to face and about relationships. So, having your staff come here pretty regularly to check on things, sit down over ice cream in the ice cream store, and have Senator Peters come through on his [motorcycle] tour. It meant a lot to have people actually come here.”

Watch the “On the Job” video here.

“The catastrophic flooding and destruction caused by those dam failures was absolutely devastating for the region, and it was worsened by the fact that we were in the middle of a pandemic,” said Senator Peters, Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. “But one thing was clear then and remains true now: Michigan communities are tough and resilient. I was proud to stand alongside them during that difficult time, and I won't stop fighting to ensure all Michiganders have the resources they need to rebuild and emerge stronger in the face of disaster.”

As Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has led several efforts to help Michigan communities prepare for and recover from natural disasters. Peters’ Disaster Assistance Simplification Act would establish a universal application across federal agencies for those seeking federal assistance to recover from natural disasters such as severe storms, floods, wildfires, and more. Currently, individuals must fill out separate and detailed applications depending on what agency they need help from, a process that can take weeks or even months. Peters’ legislation, which passed the Senate, would significantly streamline this process to reduce the burden on disaster survivors.

In addition to leading the Disaster Assistance Simplification Act, Peters also authored legislation that was signed into law to merge the application deadlines for two key Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) programs that provide federal disaster assistance to individuals. Peters’ Disaster Assistance Deadline Alignment Act helps prevent confusion for disaster survivors and aims to reduce the burden on people who need to rebuild their lives after disasters. He also authored bipartisan legislation that was signed into law to protect FEMA Reservists from losing their full-time employment when called upon to assist with disaster response.

Peters also passed into law the bipartisan Safeguarding Tomorrow through Ongoing Risk Mitigation (STORM) Act, which helps states establish revolving loan funds for local governments to carry out mitigation projects that reduce natural disaster risk. Peters then secured $500 million for the program to help communities address the impacts of natural disasters. Michigan has been awarded $22.5 million in federal funding through the program to date.

Finally, in 2022, Peters’ bill to help protect pets and other animals during and in the aftermath of natural disasters and emergencies was also signed into law.

###",1,2026-08-13T06:17:16Z,2026-08-13T06:18:13Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-helps-advance-the-kids-online-safety-act-out-of-committee,Peters Helps Advance the Kids Online Safety Act Out of Committee,2026-08-11,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped pass the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act out of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. Peters is a cosponsor of the bill, which would help protect children online by providing young people and parents with the tools, safeguards, and transparency they need to protect against online harms. The bill would also require social media platforms to put the well-being of children first, supporting an environment that is safer by default. It would also require independent audits by experts to verify that online platforms are taking meaningful steps to address risks to kids.

“Today’s social media landscape has the potential to expose children to dangerous content that could leave them vulnerable to harmful situations. It’s past time for Congress to take action to better protect kids against these threats,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan legislation would help keep kids safe on social media and provide parents with tools to prevent their children from experiencing harm online. I’m proud to support this commonsense legislation and will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get it passed in the Senate.”

The Kids Online Safety Act would:

Require that social media platforms provide minors with options to protect their information, disable addictive product features, and opt out of algorithmic recommendations. Platforms would be required to enable the strongest settings by default;

Give parents new controls to help identify harmful behaviors, and provide parents and children with a dedicated channel to report harms to the platform;

Create a responsibility for social media platforms to prevent and mitigate harms to minors, such as promotion of suicide, eating disorders, substance abuse, sexual exploitation, and unlawful products for minors e.g. gambling and alcohol;

Require social media platforms to perform an annual independent audit that assesses the risks to minors, their compliance with this legislation, and whether the platform is taking meaningful steps to prevent those harms; and

Provide academic and public interest organizations with access to critical datasets from social media platforms to foster research regarding harms to the safety and well-being of minors.

Peters, who also serves as Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, previously convened a hearing to examine how social media platforms continue to prioritize increased user engagement and revenue over safety and security. Peters also released an investigative report that found social media companies’ current incentive structures contribute to the spread of extremist content. He also previously led a hearing with independent social media experts to discuss how the spread of extremist content on social media platforms translates to real-world violence.

###",1,2026-08-12T06:18:38Z,2026-08-12T06:20:33Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-commercial-space-policy-strengthen-industry-competitiveness,"Senate Passes Peters’ Bipartisan Bill to Improve Commercial Space Policy, Strengthen Industry Competitiveness",2026-08-11,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The Senate unanimously passed bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to strengthen commercial space policy and promote industry competitiveness. Peters’ Commercial Space Activity Advisory Committee Act – which he reintroduced with U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) – would establish a Commercial Space Activity Advisory Committee within the Office of Space Commerce. The bill would enable the advisory committee, made up of representatives with extensive experience in the commercial space industry from a variety of fields including space policy, engineering, and research, to share important insights into non-governmental space activity to help inform and shape federal policy and programs.

“Space exploration is becoming increasingly important to our economic and national security, and our leading experts deserve a chance to provide insight into the future of this emerging industry,” said Senator Peters. “That’s why I’m proud to see this legislation pass the Senate. This bipartisan bill would give space industry leaders in Michigan and across the U.S. a chance to shape federal space policies that will help us remain competitive on a global scale.”

The Commercial Space Activity Advisory Committee would be comprised of 15 members who make recommendations on various priorities, including:

Identifying challenges relating to international obligations and export controls that affect the commercial space sector.

Addressing the need to access adequate, predictable, and reliable radio frequency spectrum.

Reviewing best practices for U.S. entities to avoid harmful environmental impacts to both earth and space.

Providing recommendations on matters related to space sector development and other activities the advisory committee considers necessary.

###",1,2026-08-12T06:18:38Z,2026-08-12T06:20:33Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/11/slotkin-joins-bipartisan-bill-to-support-coast-guard-installations-allow-cost-saving-community-partnerships/,"Slotkin Joins Bipartisan Bill to Support Coast Guard Installations, Allow Cost-Saving Community Partnerships",2026-08-11,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Slotkin Statement on Voting No on Confirmation of Todd Blanche as Attorney General

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the follow statement after voting against...

Slotkin Statement on Voting No in Committee on Draft Partisan Farm Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee,...

After Bipartisan Effort Led by Slotkin, Army Selects Grayling as Part of Initiative to Push Drone Testing and Research

Michigan Selected for New Army Industry Testing Initiative – One of Only Four Sites...

Slotkin, Cruz Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help Protect Houses of Worship

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and U.S. Representatives Brad Knott...

Slotkin, Ricketts Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Keep Biotech Industry in America, Not China

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the Biotech...

After Further Violence from ICE, Slotkin, Peters Demand Hearing on ICE’s Deadly Use of Force

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), all...

Slotkin, Peters, Bergman Lead Bipartisan Effort to Bring Coast Guard Drone Testing to Michigan

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI), and U.S....

Slotkin, Klobuchar, Welch, Colleagues Raise Concerns About USDA Rural Development Reorganization

WASHINGTON D.C. — Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Peter Welch...

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Slotkin, Moreno Bill to Ban Chinese Vehicles Passes Key Senate Committee With Bipartisan Support

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last week, legislation from U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Bernie Moreno...",1,2026-08-12T06:18:38Z,2026-08-12T06:20:33Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/08/slotkin-statement-on-voting-no-on-confirmation-of-todd-blanche-as-attorney-general/,Slotkin Statement on Voting No on Confirmation of Todd Blanche as Attorney General,2026-08-08,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Slotkin Statement on Voting No in Committee on Draft Partisan Farm Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee,...

After Bipartisan Effort Led by Slotkin, Army Selects Grayling as Part of Initiative to Push Drone Testing and Research

Michigan Selected for New Army Industry Testing Initiative – One of Only Four Sites...

Slotkin, Cruz Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help Protect Houses of Worship

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and U.S. Representatives Brad Knott...

Slotkin, Ricketts Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Keep Biotech Industry in America, Not China

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the Biotech...

After Further Violence from ICE, Slotkin, Peters Demand Hearing on ICE’s Deadly Use of Force

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), all...

Slotkin, Peters, Bergman Lead Bipartisan Effort to Bring Coast Guard Drone Testing to Michigan

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI), and U.S....

Slotkin, Klobuchar, Welch, Colleagues Raise Concerns About USDA Rural Development Reorganization

WASHINGTON D.C. — Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Peter Welch...

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Slotkin, Moreno Bill to Ban Chinese Vehicles Passes Key Senate Committee With Bipartisan Support

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last week, legislation from U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Bernie Moreno...

Slotkin Calls on Agriculture Committee Leadership to Support Michigan Specialty Crop Farmers in Farm Bill

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined Senators Adam Schiff (D-CA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and...

Slotkin, Moreno Bill to Protect National & Economic Security from Chinese Vehicles Advances Unanimously

Bill Receives Unanimous Bipartisan Support to Pass Out of Committee, Moves Forward to Consideration by Full...

ICYMI: Slotkin Responds to President Trump’s Truth Social Posts of her, Attempts to Curb Mail-in Voting

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), released the following video in...",1,2026-08-09T05:47:57Z,2026-08-09T05:49:40Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/07/after-bipartisan-effort-led-by-slotkin-army-selects-grayling-as-part-of-initiative-to-push-drone-testing-and-research/,"After Bipartisan Effort Led by Slotkin, Army Selects Grayling as Part of Initiative to Push Drone Testing and Research",2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Michigan Selected for New Army Industry Testing Initiative – One of Only Four Sites Nationwide

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined the U.S. Army in announcing that the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC), in partnership with the Michigan National Guard and U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), has selected Camp Grayling and the National All-Domain Warfighting Center (NADWC) as one of five premiere military test ranges in the world, and one of four in the United States being opened to private industry to accelerate research, development, and rapid experimentation for emerging defense technologies like drones.

“This is an important win for Michigan, selected as one of only four sites nationwide, that helps our role in developing, testing and building new tech for the U.S. Army,” said Slotkin. “Opening Camp Grayling to collaborate with private industry means manufacturers, startups, and engineers – of all sizes — will get a direct line to the Army. This will bring companies from across the nation to Michigan to test their systems against the same conditions we are seeing on the battlefield in Ukraine right now. And they’ll be doing it with American supply chains and American workers.”

Slotkin, Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) and U.S. Representative Jack Bergman (R-MI-01), plus other members across the Michigan Congressional Delegation have supported efforts to establish Camp Grayling and NADWC as a national hub for drone testing and defense innovation, including in a joint letter to the Secretary of Defense in July of 2025. Read that letter here.

The initiative gives companies access to specialized environments for testing drones, counter-drone systems, long-range fires, and low-cost interceptors, and is designed to eliminate the red tape between the Army and commercial innovators, so that new technologies can be developed and fielded faster.

“A company with a good idea shouldn’t need a team of lawyers and a program of record just to prove their equipment works,” said Army Secretary Dan Driscoll. “So we fixed that. One front door — testrange.army.mil — a real person to walk you in, and on the other side, everything the modern battlefield demands: contested airspace, degraded signals and the space to test at real scale.”

Slotkin continues to champion Michigan as a center of defense manufacturing and innovation, as laid out by her Future of Defense Manufacturing Act. Camp Grayling’s proximity to large-scale manufacturing centers, private sector drone innovators, and national transportation hubs make it a centrally located, all-in-one destination for the Army’s growing partnership with industry.

More about the announcement:

The U.S. Army is opening five premier military test ranges to private industry to accelerate research, development, and rapid experimentation on emerging defense technologies. Led by the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC) in partnership with the Michigan National Guard and U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), the initiative provides companies with access to specialized environments for testing drones, counter-drone systems, long-range fires, and low-cost interceptors at Dugway Proving Ground (Utah), West Cibola Range at Yuma Proving Ground (Arizona), Camp Grayling (Michigan), Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center (Mississippi,) and the African Multidomain Training and Experimentation Center (AMTEC) in Morocco.

The initiative is designed to reduce barriers between the Army and commercial innovators, enabling faster development and fielding of technologies such as drones, counter-drone systems, long-range fires, and low-cost interceptors.

The Army will also host a special electromagnetic unreliability test event for private industry at Camp Grayling during the week of Sept. 13, 2026. This environment will mimic the contested electronic warfare conditions currently seen on the battlefield in Ukraine, offering industry a rare opportunity to harden their drone and counter-drone systems. The Army anticipates this opportunity will be repeated on a quarterly basis.

Today, the Army has launched a portal, testrange.army.mil, which serves as a digital front door for industry. Companies can easily request range time and will be paired with a dedicated concierge who will assist them through the scheduling processes. Private industry does not need to have a prior government contract or existing federal relationship to submit a request.

###",1,2026-08-08T05:41:38Z,2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/07/slotkin-cruz-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-protect-houses-of-worship/,"Slotkin, Cruz Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help Protect Houses of Worship",2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and U.S. Representatives Brad Knott (R-NC) and Tom Suozzi (D-NY) introduced the Right to Worship Act.The bill restricts activity that knowingly disrupts or impedes access to scheduled religious services within 100 feet of the entrance to a house of worship during that time.

The legislation comes as attacks on places of worships are on the rise across the country. The bill would ban activity that “meaningfully interferes with the ability of people to participate in the scheduled religious service, to the extent that the conduct causes a substantial interruption to the service’s normal operation” or “unreasonably hinders or deters a person from entering a house of worship, or threatens or intimidates a person, in a manner that prevents participation at a scheduled religious service.”

“No one should ever fear going to their house of worship. Period,” said Senator Slotkin. “The Right to Worship Act prohibits disruptive conduct, within 100 feet of a religious institution, that’s used to threaten or impede access. I look forward to working with my colleagues on getting this important piece of bipartisan legislation passed.”

“The First Amendment guarantees every American the right to freely exercise their faith, and Congress has a duty to ensure that guarantee is met,” said Senator Cruz. “In recent years, we have seen organized acts of hate meant to disrupt and deny that right, which have been untenably defended as speech. That is why I am introducing the Right to Worship Act, and I urge my colleagues to support it.”

The Right to Worship Act is also endorsed by 12 groups including:

ADL (Anti-Defamation League)

Agudath Israel of America

American Jewish Committee (AJC)

BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha

Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA)

Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America

Hindu American Foundation

Islamic Society of North America (ISNA)

Jewish Federations of North America

UJA-Federation of New York

Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America (“Orthodox Union”)

UNITED SIKHS

Read the full bill text here.

###",1,2026-08-08T05:41:38Z,2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/07/slotkin-statement-on-voting-no-in-committee-on-draft-partisan-farm-bill/,Slotkin Statement on Voting No in Committee on Draft Partisan Farm Bill,2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after voting no in committee, against the Senate Republican drafted Farm Bill this week.

“No one knows better than me how much our farmers and producers in Michigan need a new farm bill, which is out of date with the current hurdles our farmers are facing.

“But I could not support the draft as is because the bill would cost the state of Michigan as much as $300 million. That could result in a big cut to the state of Michigan’s budget and result in further cuts to SNAP. We have asked Republicans for a two- year delay to manage those costs.

“This bill pits farmers against citizens in Michigan, and it doesn’t have to be that way.

“I believe Democrats and Republicans can work together here, and there are many positive things for farmers in this draft, including year-round E15 to help our corn growers and over 25 provisions that I helped champion for Michigan — from helping specialty crop growers like cherries and asparagus, to water conservation and protecting food and farm supply chains from the Chinese Communist Party’s influence.

“I urge Chairman Boozman and Republicans to work with Democrats to reach a compromise that delivers for our farmers this year. We just need to be fair to our states in the process.”

###",1,2026-08-08T05:41:38Z,2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-leads-resolution-designating-august-7th-as-national-lighthouse-day,Peters Leads Resolution Designating August 7th as National Lighthouse Day,2026-08-06,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) is leading a bipartisan resolution designating August 7, 2026 as “National Lighthouse Day.” The resolution – which Peters introduced with U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Angus King (I-ME) – encourages all Americans to visit and support the preservation of our nation’s historic lighthouses. The resolution also honors the historical significance of Michigan’s lighthouses and recognizes the dedicated workers who protect these landmarks and share their stories in communities across the state.

“The Great Lakes are part of who we are as Michiganders, and our lighthouses are a crucial piece of that heritage,” Peters said. “I’m proud to lead this bipartisan resolution that urges folks to appreciate and help protect these historic landmarks for generations to come.”

According to the United States Lighthouse Society, Michigan is home to more than 120 lighthouses along its more than 3,000 miles of coastline, the most of any U.S. state. Today, these lighthouses serve as reminders of the state’s rich maritime history. Michigan lighthouses were integral to helping ships navigate the Great Lakes during the 1800’s and early 1900’s, supporting the robust Great Lakes maritime economy. Many of these lighthouses remain operational in present day, while others now operate as museums and educational centers.

The first lighthouse built in the State in 1825, the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse, is still active to this day and is home to a museum. Many Michigan lighthouses, like Big Red in Holland and Big Sable Point in Ludington, are also popular tourist destinations for visitors from across the nation.

This resolution is supported by the United States Lighthouse Society, American Lighthouse Foundation, and the Lighthouse Preservation Society.

You can read the resolution here.

###",1,2026-08-07T06:11:19Z,2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/06/slotkin-ricketts-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-keep-biotech-industry-in-america-not-china/,"Slotkin, Ricketts Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Keep Biotech Industry in America, Not China",2026-08-06,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the Biotech Investment National Security Act (BINSA). This bill would ensure American investment in adversary biotechnology is subject to the review requirements of the Comprehensive Outbound Investment National Security (COINS) Act.

Specifically, this legislation adds biotechnology, including pharmaceutical development, biologics manufacturing, and clinical research to the list of sectors subject to screening and scrutiny from the federal government.

“Biotech is crucial for driving economic growth, creating jobs, and spurring innovation in science and technologies, like lifesaving medicines,” said Senator Slotkin. “But right now, China is eating our lunch in this field. This bill ensures strong U.S. leadership in biotech and protects U.S. intellectual property and investments. We’ve seen China use this playbook before to dominate other critical sectors, such as the automotive industry and drone market. This bill will stop that.”

“America leads the world in innovation across all sectors,” said Senator Ricketts. “This critical legislation ensures American investment in the biotech industry benefits Americans—not our enemies. We cannot allow Communist China to obtain the resources it needs to threaten our way of life. I will fight every effort that weaponizes American investments to undercut our businesses and reshape supply chains against us. Maintaining America’s innovative leadership and global economic dominance is a matter of national security.”

This legislation would:

Amend the COINS Act to include biotechnology –specifically pharmaceutical and biological product development—to the list of sectors subject to receive increased federal scrutiny.

Make U.S. pharmaceutical licensing deals, joint ventures, and equity investments with Chinese covered foreign persons subject to review by the U.S. Treasury Department.

Direct the Treasury Department to consult with Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) and implement regulations within one year of enactment.

Require the Secretary of Defense to assess within 60 days whether U.S. capital flows into Chinese biotechnology negatively affect national security and military readiness.

Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Reps. John Moolenaar (MI-02) and Debbie Dingell (MI-06) in June 2026.

Click here to download the bill text.",1,2026-08-07T06:11:19Z,2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-secures-22-million-in-federal-funding-for-benton-harbor-to-upgrade-flood-resiliency-infrastructure,Peters Secures $22 Million in Federal Funding for Benton Harbor to Upgrade Flood Resiliency Infrastructure,2026-08-03,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"BENTON HARBOR, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) secured $22 million in federal funding for the City of Benton Harbor’s Riverfront Redevelopment Project. This funding will support the relocation of Riverview Drive, a major roadway which has been subject to unpredictable closures as a result of recent heavy rainfall and flooding. Additionally, the project will revitalize Benton Harbor’s waterfront to improve safety for pedestrians and drivers.

Funding for the project comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant program. Peters secured funding for the BUILD program though the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and advocated for Benton Harbor’s funding application.

“Michigan communities have experienced more severe storms and flooding in recent years that have threatened public safety and damaged property,” said Senator Peters. “I was proud to secure this funding to help Benton Harbor invest in infrastructure upgrades that will protect residents, homes, and businesses from severe flooding while improving waterfront access for pedestrians.”

Peters has long fought to help Michigan communities strengthen their infrastructure against severe weather like flooding. Peters passed into law the bipartisan Safeguarding Tomorrow through Ongoing Risk Mitigation (STORM) Act, which helps states establish revolving loan funds for local governments to carry out mitigation projects that reduce natural disaster risk and secured $500 million for the program to help communities address the impacts of natural disasters. Michigan has been awarded $22.5 million in federal funding through the program to date.

DOT’s BUILD program awards federal funding on a competitive basis for projects considered to have significant local or regional impact. BUILD funding can support roads, bridges, transit, rail, ports or intermodal transportation projects. Peters helped create the BUILD program as part of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act and has continued working to fund BUILD through annual government funding legislation.

###",1,2026-08-04T07:35:49Z,2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-secures-more-than-125-million-in-federal-funding-for-ingham-county-roadway-safety-projects,Peters Secures More Than $12.5 Million in Federal Funding for Ingham County Roadway Safety Projects,2026-08-03,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"LANSING, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) secured more than $12.5 million in federal funding for two roadway safety projects in Ingham County. This includes $11.3 million to support infrastructure improvements along Okemos Road in Meridian Township, including installation of left turn lanes, replacement of non-motorized pathways, and replacement of exiting traffic signals. Peters also secured $1.2 million for the City of Lansing’s ongoing “Safe Streets Lansing” project, an infrastructure initiative aiming to improve roadway safety for drivers and pedestrians and reduce car-related fatalities and serious injuries. The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant program. Peters secured funding for the BUILD program though the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and advocated for Lansing’s funding application.

“Having safe, reliable roadways is critical to public safety and local economic growth,” said Senator Peters. “These investments will improve safety for drivers and pedestrians and make the Capitol Region an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.”

DOT’s BUILD program awards federal funding on a competitive basis for projects considered to have significant local or regional impact. BUILD funding can support roads, bridges, transit, rail, ports or intermodal transportation projects. Peters helped create the BUILD program as part of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act and has continued working to fund BUILD through annual government funding legislation.

###",1,2026-08-04T07:35:49Z,2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-secures-more-than-27-million-in-federal-funding-for-roadway-safety-improvements-in-metro-detroit,Peters Secures More Than $27 Million in Federal Funding for Roadway Safety Improvements in Metro Detroit,2026-08-03,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"DETROIT, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) secured more than $27 million in federal funding for roadway safety improvements in Metro Detroit. Peters secured $25 million for the Gratiot SMART SPACES Implementation Project, which will support roadway improvements along the Gratiot Avenue corridor to prevent crashes, create safer pedestrian crossings, and enable more reliable and efficient bus service. Peters also secured $2.2 million for the City of Sterling Heights’ North Van Dyke Avenue corridor improvement project. The funding will make roadway improvements along Van Dyke Avenue that will support roadway safety and redesign the corridor as a hub for residential and commercial activity.

“Having safe, reliable roadways is critical to public safety and local economic growth,” said Senator Peters. “I was proud to secure this funding to help improve these vital corridors in Metro Detroit to better support the residents and businesses who rely on them each and every day.”

This funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant program. Peters secured funding for the BUILD program though the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and advocated for both Macomb County’s and Sterling Heights’ funding applications.

DOT’s BUILD program awards federal funding on a competitive basis for projects considered to have significant local or regional impact. BUILD funding can support roads, bridges, transit, rail, ports or intermodal transportation projects. Peters helped create the BUILD program as part of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act and has continued working to fund BUILD through annual government funding legislation.

###",1,2026-08-04T07:35:49Z,2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/08/03/after-further-violence-from-ice-slotkin-peters-demand-hearing-on-ices-deadly-use-of-force/,"After Further Violence from ICE, Slotkin, Peters Demand Hearing on ICE’s Deadly Use of Force",2026-08-03,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), all members of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, joined the Committee’s Democrats in sending a letter calling on Chairman Rand Paul to convene an oversight hearing on the Administration’s immigration enforcement tactics.

Chairman Paul held a February 12 oversight hearing following the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti — two U.S. citizens killed by federal agents in Minneapolis in January. While administration officials have pledged to change policies and implement common sense reforms, it is clear that not enough is being done. DHS has doubled down and ramped up immigration enforcement operations — resulting in ICE agents fatally shooting Lorenzo Salgado Araujo in Houston, Texas, on July 7 and Joan Sebastian Guerrero in Biddeford, Maine, on July 13.

“Secretary Mullin has now had sufficient time in office to enact meaningful policy change… Furthermore, DHS has still not been forthcoming about what, if any, corrective actions have been taken related to the killings of Mr. Pretti and Ms. Good. In light of these facts, we call on you to immediately conduct oversight of DHS, including, as necessary, to issue a subpoena for records and information regarding their tactics and excessive use of force,” the Senators wrote.

“We call on you to hold a hearing with Administration officials, including Secretary Markwayne Mullin, White House Border Czar Tom Homan, ICE Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Director David J. Venturella, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney S. Scott to explain why DHS has failed to implement meaningful reforms that could have prevented incidents like fatal shootings and reined in abusive and rampant immigration enforcement tactics,” the Senators concluded.

Senators Andy Kim (D-NJ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and John Fetterman (D-PA) also signed on.

Read the full letter here.

###",1,2026-08-04T07:35:49Z,2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/07/31/slotkin-peters-bergman-lead-bipartisan-effort-to-bring-coast-guard-drone-testing-to-michigan/,"Slotkin, Peters, Bergman Lead Bipartisan Effort to Bring Coast Guard Drone Testing to Michigan",2026-07-31,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Slotkin, Klobuchar, Welch, Colleagues Raise Concerns About USDA Rural Development Reorganization

WASHINGTON D.C. — Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Peter Welch...

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Slotkin, Moreno Bill to Ban Chinese Vehicles Passes Key Senate Committee With Bipartisan Support

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ICYMI: Slotkin Gives Remarks on Senate Floor about the Risk of Weaponization of Intelligence Community

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Slotkin, Gillibrand, Colleagues Press Pentagon to Release Findings on Deadly Iran School Strike

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Slotkin, Ossoff Demand Answers After Hegseth Denied Military Officers’ Promotions for Political Reasons

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA), and colleagues...

Peters and Slotkin Demand Answers as Trump Administration Further Delays Toxic PFAS Chemical Cleanups at Military Sites in Michigan

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) are demanding answers from the...",1,2026-08-01T07:27:26Z,2026-08-01T07:28:22Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-the-job-for-michigan-cherry-growers-highlight-peters-efforts-to-protect-their-crops-against-harmful-invasive-species,ON THE JOB FOR MICHIGAN: Cherry Growers Highlight Peters’ Efforts to Protect Their Crops Against Harmful Invasive Species,2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"SUTTONS BAY, MICHIGAN – In a new “On the Job” video from U.S. Senator Gary Peters’ (MI) office, Michigan cherry growers highlight Peters’ efforts to protect their crops and livelihoods against invasive species. Growers Emily Miezio, Manager of Cherry Bay Orchards, and Jim Bardenhagen, Owner of Bardenhagen Farms, expressed their support for Peters’ work to author and pass his SWAT Act. The bipartisan bill would combat the spread of spotted wing drosophila (SWD), an invasive fly hurting fruit growers in Michigan and across the country. Dr. Nikki Rothwell, Extension Specialist at Michigan State University’s Northwest Michigan Horticulture Research Center, also discussed how Peters’ SWAT Act would support MSU’s efforts to advance research on, and develop mitigation methods for, SWD. The video is part of the On the Job for Michigan series, which highlights Peters’ leadership and advocacy on behalf of Michigan constituents and communities.

“I’ve been farming probably 45 years,” said Bardenhagen. “Most of the insects that we have in the U.S. have an enemy of some sort, and that helps to control them. But SWD does not have an enemy. So, it’s been a real challenge for growers. We need a friend down there in Washington.”

“What we have here in Northern Michigan is kind of a sweet spot to grow cherries. I grew up on the farm. I am a second-generation cherry farmer,” said Miezio. “SWD is spotted wing drosophila, which is a cherry fruit fly, or a fruit fly that we see in different fruits… As a farmer, we don't want to be doing inputs on our cherries all the time. Talking with Senator Peters’ office over the last couple years, just continuing that support that they’ve given us to help research so we can find ways to produce the best quality fruit that we can, we’re seeing that dial switch a little bit. We want to keep that momentum going and Senator Peters’ office and the support of legislators to continue the research so we can do that is vitally important.”

“The flies were detected in 2010 here in Michigan, and then in 2012, we happen to see them up here infesting fruit,” said Dr. Rothwell. “You know, we’ve adjusted our spray programs, we’ve decreased the amount of pesticides we’ve been using tremendously because of these federal funds. We put those dollars to work really fast.”

Watch the “On the Job” video here.

“I’ve heard firsthand from Michigan growers about how these invasive insects continue to damage their blueberries, cherries, and other fruit crops, and pose a serious threat to their livelihoods and economic success,” said Senator Peters. “I’m never going to stop fighting for this much-needed, bipartisan bill to help bring down costs for fruit growers and mitigate the spread of this invasive pest to prevent their crops from being spoiled to in the first place.”

The spotted wing drosophila (SWD) is an invasive pest from East Asia that lays eggs in soft-skinned fruit crops, including cherries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries. SWD is estimated to cause more than $700 million in economic loss per year nationally – in part because fruit buyers have a zero-tolerance policy if the invasive insect is spotted on crops, meaning entire crop loads can be rejected if a single larva is detected. Thorough pest management strategies are required for farmers to ensure their crops are SWD-free, raising costs along the way.

A Spotted Wing Drosophila Response Team is led by researchers at Michigan State University and many other U.S. universities – and has been funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Specialty Crop Research Initiative, Project GREEEN, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, and various Michigan grower organizations. In talks with members of the Spotted Wing Drosophila Response Team, Professor Rufus Isaacs of Michigan State University and officials with USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service have all said current federal funding levels are inadequate for the management of these invasive insects.

Peters has fiercely fought to support Michigan growers. In 2020, Peters’ bipartisan legislation to address the shortage of agricultural inspectors – who protect the nation’s food supply and agricultural industry at the border – by authorizing U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to hire additional inspectors was signed into law. Peters also fought to level the playing field for small- and medium-sized businesses that have been negatively impacted by unfair trade practices from foreign countries, including Michigan cherry growers hurt by dumping and subsidies on imported goods. Additionally, after a push by Peters, the U.S. International Trade Commission announced in 2020 it would start tracking foreign imports to accurately measure the impact of trade on Michigan’s tart cherry industry.

###",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/07/28/slotkin-klobuchar-welch-colleagues-raise-concerns-about-usda-rural-development-reorganization/,"Slotkin, Klobuchar, Welch, Colleagues Raise Concerns About USDA Rural Development Reorganization",2026-07-28,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Slotkin, Moreno Bill to Ban Chinese Vehicles Passes Key Senate Committee With Bipartisan Support

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last week, legislation from U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Bernie Moreno...

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ICYMI: Slotkin Gives Remarks on Senate Floor about the Risk of Weaponization of Intelligence Community

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Slotkin, Gillibrand, Colleagues Press Pentagon to Release Findings on Deadly Iran School Strike

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Slotkin, Van Hollen, Colleagues Press EPA to Reinstate EPA Employees Retaliated Against for Exercising their Right to Free Speech

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) were joined...",1,2026-07-29T07:41:48Z,2026-07-29T07:42:57Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/07/27/what-they-are-saying-slotkin-moreno-bill-to-ban-chinese-vehicles-passes-key-senate-committee-with-bipartisan-support/,"WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Slotkin, Moreno Bill to Ban Chinese Vehicles Passes Key Senate Committee With Bipartisan Support",2026-07-27,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last week, legislation from U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Bernie Moreno (R-OH), the Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026, passed the Senate Commerce Committee with unanimous bipartisan support. The legislation will ban Chinese cars from the United States.

The legislation is designed to defend the American auto industry against the increasing threat of Chinese-manufactured vehicles. By cutting off Chinese vehicles, software, and critical hardware at every stage, from the factory floor to the dealership parking lot, the bill ensures that data collected on U.S. roads cannot be funneled back to the Chinese government.

The Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026 has drawn broad support from across the American auto industry and national security community – with statements of support from labor unions, the car companies, and auto industry trade groups.

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING ABOUT COMMITTEE PASSAGE OF THE CONNECTED VEHICLE SECURITY ACT OF 2026:

U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI):

“Chinese connected vehicles pose a serious threat to American jobs and Americans’ safety. I am proud to have worked with my Democratic and Republican colleagues to take a step forward in our fight to prevent China from collecting our data and help keep Wisconsin workers and families safe.”

UAW:

“Today’s action by the Senate Commerce Committee marks an important step toward protecting American manufacturing and preserving the American Dream. The UAW applauds every member of the committee who voted to advance a strong version of the bill, and we thank the bill’s sponsors, Senators Bernie Moreno and Elissa Slotkin, for their leadership.

“The committee recognized that America needs an auto industry that invests in American workers—not one that rewards dependence on China, whose industrial strategy has leveraged Western brands to expand its market influence while advancing a business model built on low wages and weak labor standards. As the legislation continues to advance, we reiterate our opposition to carve-outs for all multinational corporations. No company should get special treatment. If they want to benefit from policies that strengthen American manufacturing, they should meet the same standards as everyone else.

“This legislation will help ensure that the next generation of auto investment creates good union jobs, strengthens communities, reinforces America’s manufacturing base, and keeps the future of auto production here in the United States.”

United Steelworkers:

“Thousands of USW members are directly dependent on a healthy U.S. auto industry. Manufacturers and state-linked investors from foreign entities of concern must not be allowed to gain access to the U.S. market through minority ownership stakes, joint ventures, and supply relationships with U.S. manufacturers. Millions of jobs, a resilient supply chain, and our economy are at stake. For these reasons, we strongly support the Act’s clear guardrails on investment policies that restrict domestic firms from allowing foreign entities of concern to gain a foothold in the ownership and direction of companies within the U.S. auto supply chain. The bill’s equity thresholds, which limit FEOC ownership beyond 15 percent for vehicle manufacturers and 25 percent for suppliers, are key for holding all multinational corporations accountable and for protecting the U.S economy.”

General Motors:

“General Motors applauds the efforts of Senator Moreno (R-OH) and Slotkin (D-MI) in securing strong bipartisan support and passage of S. 4429, the Connected Vehicle Security Act, via voice vote out of the Senate Commerce Committee. GM supports policies that protect and strengthen American manufacturing and the global competitiveness of U.S. automakers, and we remain committed to long-term investments in our domestic workforce, facilities, and technology, and we look forward to continuing to work with all stakeholders throughout the process. As we have said many times, we can compete with anyone in the world when we are given a level playing field.”

Machinists:

“The IAM represents thousands of highly trained automotive technicians across the country who are responsible for helping ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicles on America’s roads. Fulfilling that responsibility is becoming more complex as connected vehicle technologies introduce potential national security risks, particularly when critical components are linked to nations of concern such as China.

“…we strongly support the bill’s clear guardrails on investment policies that restrict domestic firms from allowing foreign entities of concern to gain a foothold in the ownership and direction of companies within the U.S. auto supply chain. The bill’s equity thresholds, which limit Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) ownership beyond 15% for vehicle manufacturers and 25% for suppliers, are key for holding all multinational corporations accountable and for protecting the U.S economy.”

American Iron and Steel Institute:

“When U.S. automakers compete on a fair and secure basis, American steelmakers thrive alongside them. Unfortunately, they don’t compete on a level playing field as Chinese state-subsidized vehicles, produced outside the bounds of fair trade and with serious national security implications, threaten to undermine the entire domestic supply chain. This bipartisan legislation takes an important step toward ensuring that the future of American mobility is built with American steel.”

Statement from MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association:

“The Connected Vehicles Security Act of 2026 (CVSA), as adopted by the Senate Commerce committee, strikes an important balance that addresses key national security concerns associated with today’s technology-enabled vehicles while also ensuring that vehicle suppliers can comply with the requirements. MEMA appreciates the leadership of Senators Moreno and Slotkin on this legislation, and we look forward to working with them on the CVSA as it continues to move through the legislative process.”

###",1,2026-07-28T07:37:32Z,2026-07-28T07:38:50Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/07/24/slotkin-calls-on-agriculture-committee-leadership-to-support-michigan-specialty-crop-farmers-in-farm-bill/,Slotkin Calls on Agriculture Committee Leadership to Support Michigan Specialty Crop Farmers in Farm Bill,2026-07-24,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined Senators Adam Schiff (D-CA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and Raphael Warnock (D-GA), fellow members of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry in urging committee leadership to include provisions in the upcoming Farm Bill that support specialty crop farmers. Specialty crops are vital to Michigan’s economy and identity, driving agricultural diversity, local processing, and agritourism across more than 300 produced commodities. The state ranks number one nationally in the production of tart cherries, cucumbers for processing, and asparagus.

Slotkin previously introduced the Fairness for Fruits and Vegetables Act, which would add more mechanisms to address unfair trade practices hurting American and Michigan specialty crop producers. She also co-led the CHILE Act, which would expand federal protections for specialty crop growers hurt by financial losses and market instability.

The Senators wrote a letter to Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman (R-AR) and Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), outlining the importance of working to produce a Farm Bill that includes improvements to economic assistance for specialty crop growers, funding for healthy food programs, and increased flexibilities for growers’ access to crop insurance.

“While providing states with relief for the SNAP cost-shift remains a top priority, we simultaneously remain committed to ensuring the success of specialty crop growers in our states and throughout the nation,” wrote the Senators.

“Inclusion of these policy proposals in the Farm Bill will better ensure that specialty crop producers have the tools they need to succeed and that American and international consumers have easy, affordable access to healthy fruits, vegetables, and nuts,” the Senators continued.

Read the full letter here .",1,2026-07-25T07:13:44Z,2026-07-25T07:15:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-peters-presses-defense-secretary-hegseth-on-iran-war-as-pentagon-requests-additional-70-billion,VIDEO: Peters Presses Defense Secretary Hegseth on Iran War as Pentagon Requests Additional $70 Billion,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Following the Department of Defense’s request for an additional nearly $70 billion for the ongoing war in Iran, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) pressed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on his failure to execute a clear winning strategy to end the conflict. During a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing, Peters expressed his frustrations with the Trump Administration’s repeated contradictions about the state of the war and inability to complete our military objectives.

“You, sir, are the failure. Not the men and women who are on that front line. Not the men and women who hold up their honor with distinction. But, if there’s a lack of a winning strategy, they’re in harm’s way, their leaders have failed them, and that’s what’s happening,” said Peters during the hearing. “You don't have a strategy. You don’t have a long-term plan to actually win this war. Win the war. The men and women are going to be able to do it, but they need to have leadership. When will you show leadership?”

To watch the full video of Senator Peters’ questioning, click here.

During his questioning, Peters also highlighted the Administration’s lack of strategy and inability to maintain a consistent military objective in the war, noting that our goals have shifted from regime change, to destroying Iran’s nuclear capabilities, to seizing control of the Strait of Hormuz.

“Without a clear winning strategy, we’re at risk of being in another forever war that will put our servicemembers in continued harm’s way and continue to cost taxpayers billions of dollars,” said Peters during the hearing. “Secretary Hegseth, despite your failure to win this war, you are back now before Congress asking for almost $70 billion in additional funding. You are asking the American people for a blank check because, once again, the Trump Administration’s efforts have been an utter and complete failure to win this war to this point.”

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/07/22/slotkin-moreno-bill-to-protect-national-economic-security-from-chinese-vehicles-advances-unanimously/,"Slotkin, Moreno Bill to Protect National & Economic Security from Chinese Vehicles Advances Unanimously",2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Bill Receives Unanimous Bipartisan Support to Pass Out of Committee, Moves Forward to Consideration by Full Senate

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Bernie Moreno’s (R-OH) Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026 advanced from committee markup, receiving unanimous bipartisan support. The bill has gathered strong support from across the American auto industry and labor unions.

The Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026 protects American drivers and automakers from Chinese-manufactured vehicles on our roads and in our markets. The legislation closes the door on Chinese-origin vehicles, software, and key components at every stage, from production, importation, to sale, so that data gathered on U.S. roads can’t be funneled back to the Chinese government.

“Chinese cars are surveillance packages on wheels, with the ability to collect on American citizens and transmit that data back to Beijing,” said Senator Slotkin. “The Chinese Communist Party’s playbook of heavily subsidizing their product and underselling the competition puts Michigan’s auto industry and millions of American workers at risk. I’m proud to see my bill advance out of committee today with unanimous bipartisan support, and I’m looking forward to working alongside Senator Moreno, the American auto industry, and labor to get it over the finish line.”

“China’s auto industry was not built to compete, it was built to destroy American manufacturing, gut the middle class, and undermine our national security,” said Senator Moreno. “For decades, D.C. globalists propped up Chinese businesses—now it’s time for Congress to stop this cancer before it spreads through the American auto market.”

Bill text can be found HERE and a one-pager can be found HERE.

Support for the Connected Vehicles Security Act of 2026:

“Our national and economic security relies on a strong US auto industry,” said UAW President Shawn Fain. “The American Dream was launched and sustained out of good union auto jobs here in the United States. If we want to rebuild US manufacturing and raise standards for the working class, we can’t keep offshoring and outsourcing our auto industry, driving a global race to the bottom for short term corporate profits. Our US auto industry must invest in cutting-edge technology and build affordable, high-quality vehicles for the American consumer, built by UAW autoworkers. We can’t keep selling out the US working class to transnational corporations that have no respect for labor rights. By building on and strengthening the existing connected vehicles rule, this legislation puts common sense guardrails on a major threat to our nation’s auto industry.”

“GM commends Senators Moreno (R-OH) and Slotkin (D-MI) on the introduction of the Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026,” said General Motors. “General Motors supports policies that protect and strengthen American manufacturing and the global competitiveness of U.S. automakers, and we remain committed to long-term investments in our domestic workforce, facilities, and technology. As we have said many times, we can compete with anyone in the world when we are given a level playing field. We look forward to continuing to work with both offices through the legislative process.”

“We commend Senators Moreno and Slotkin on their bipartisan work to protect the U.S. industrial base. We look forward to working with Congress as the bill moves through the legislative process,” said Ford Motor Company.

“The Connected Vehicle Security Act addresses important issues related to connected vehicle security and fair competition in the U.S. market,” said Stellantis. We look forward to working with Senators Moreno and Slotkin on the details as their legislation moves forward.”

“China has a strategy to dominate global automotive and battery manufacturing that presents a challenge to American economic and national security,” said John Bozzella, president and CEO, Alliance for Automotive Innovation. “We need to make sure we’re all playing by the same rules, but Chinese automakers are flooding markets around the world with cut-rate vehicles. Sens. Moreno and Slotkin don’t want that to happen here. They’re right. The legislation they introduced today sends a clear message: The U.S. will not throw open the doors to Chinese automakers to manufacture or sell here. The details matter, and we’ll continue working with lawmakers to get this policy right, so all our member companies continue to succeed and thrive inside the U.S.”

“AISI applauds Senators Moreno and Slotkin for their leadership on introducing the Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026,” said Kevin Dempsey, AISI president and CEO. “The American steel industry’s success is inextricably linked to the health of U.S. automotive manufacturing. When U.S. automakers compete on a fair and secure basis, American steelmakers thrive alongside them. Chinese state-subsidized vehicles, produced outside the bounds of fair trade and with serious national security implications, threaten to undermine the entire domestic supply chain —from research and development facilities to steel mills to the assembly lines. This bipartisan legislation takes an important step toward ensuring that the future of American mobility is built with American steel.”

“As the largest auto manufacturer in Ohio, Honda commends Senators Bernie Moreno and Elissa Slotkin on introducing the Connected Vehicle Security Act, which seeks to provide a fair and competitive marketplace for U.S. automakers,” said American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “As global competition in the automotive sector intensifies, the bill importantly recognizes how American economic and national security are increasingly connected. Honda looks forward to working with the sponsors as the legislation evolves.”

“SAFE strongly supports the Connected Vehicle Security Act which expands current law to combat the growing threat posed by Chinese automakers and suppliers, and the risks they pose to America’s economic and national security,” said Rachel McCleery, Executive Director of SAFE’s Coalition for Reimagined Mobility. “After gaining market access to Mexico and Canada, our geopolitical adversary is even closer to deploying vehicles on U.S. roads – vehicles that collect and transmit sensitive geolocation, infrastructure, and behavioral data at scale. This new legislation is a crucial step towards building secure and resilient supply chains, protecting our industrial base, and blocking real-time espionage and surveillance by foreign adversaries.”

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/07/21/icymi-slotkin-responds-to-president-trumps-truth-social-posts-of-her-attempts-to-curb-mail-in-voting/,"ICYMI: Slotkin Responds to President Trump’s Truth Social Posts of her, Attempts to Curb Mail-in Voting",2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — The Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee unanimously voted to advance the...

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Yesterday, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) gave a speech on her newly...

The MERIT Act comes as an unqualified loyalist of President Trump serves as acting DNI-- and...

WASHINGTON D.C. — This week, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), joined by 23 other...

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA), and colleagues...

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) are demanding answers from the...

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) were joined...

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined her Senate Democratic colleagues in demanding the Trump...

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI), both...

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental...",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/07/21/slotkin-and-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-extend-federal-funding-and-protections-for-the-great-lakes-advances-in-the-senate/,Slotkin and Peters Bipartisan Bill to Extend Federal Funding and Protections for the Great Lakes Advances in the Senate,2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — The Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee unanimously voted to advance the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act of 2026. The comprehensive bill includes a provision championed by U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI), based on their bipartisan Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Act of 2025. The Water Resources Development Act of 2026 would authorize $475 million in annual funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) through 2030.

“The Great Lakes are a huge part of who we are as Michiganders and our way of life, but they’re also the backbone of our state economy,” said Senator Slotkin. “This crucial funding program helps keep it that way. I’ll keep fighting alongside both Republicans and Democrats to fully fund the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and get this bill signed into law.”

“The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative is the most significant investment ever made to restore and protect our Great Lakes, and now more than ever, we need to ensure this vital program has the resources necessary to keep our treasured waterways healthy and vibrant,” said Senator Peters. “I’ll keep working in a bipartisan way to get this commonsense bill passed into law and help protect the Great Lakes for future generations.”

he GLRI combines federal and nonfederal efforts to stop the spread of carp and other invasive species, restore coastline and habitats connecting our streams and rivers, clean up environmentally damaged Areas of Concern, and prevent future contamination. While providing vital support for these efforts, the GLRI also helps ensure we can address new and emerging threats to the Great Lakes.

Since its inception, the GLRI has spurred tremendous progress in Michigan and throughout the Great Lakes region including nearly half of a million acres of habitat protected, restored, or enhanced, a five-fold increase in the successful cleanup and delisting of Areas of Concern, a ten-fold increase in the remediation of environmental and public health impairments, and reducing the threat of harmful algal blooms. The GLRI’s efforts have also resulted in economic returns of more than 3 to 1 across the region.

The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Act of 2025 is supported by the League of Conservation Voters, National Wildlife Federation, Sierra Club, National Parks Conservation Association, Council of Great Lakes Governors, Great Lakes Fishery Commission, American Great Lakes Ports Association, Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative, American Rivers, American Sportfishing Association, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Ducks Unlimited, Trout Unlimited, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, National Audubon Society – Great Lakes, Environmental Law & Policy Center, and other key stakeholders in Great Lakes protection.

Slotkin and Peters have been steadfast supporters of the Great Lakes, including by enacting the single-largest-ever investment in the GLRI through the bipartisan infrastructure law to accelerate the restoration of nine high-priority areas in Michigan whose lakes, rivers, and watersheds flow into the Great Lakes.",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/07/20/icymi-slotkin-gives-remarks-on-senate-floor-about-the-risk-of-weaponization-of-intelligence-community/,ICYMI: Slotkin Gives Remarks on Senate Floor about the Risk of Weaponization of Intelligence Community,2026-07-20,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Yesterday, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) gave a speech on her newly introduced bill, the Minimum Experience Requirements for Intelligence Transition (MERIT) Act, that would require any individual serving as Director of National Intelligence (DNI), including in an acting or interim capacity, to have extensive national security experience.

Watch the speech here.

Download the speech here.

The requirement reiterates the standard already applied to Senate-confirmed DNIs under the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004, championed by Senator Susan Collins and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.

Her remarks come as the Administration continues to erode public trust, including in President Trump’s remarks last evening on our election systems, and as Bill Pulte, an unqualified loyalist of the President, serves as a leader in the intelligence community. The broader intelligence community is at risk of becoming weaponized against the American people for the political gain of the President.

###",1,2026-07-20T07:56:32Z,2026-07-20T07:57:48Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-slotkin-bipartisan-bill-to-extend-federal-funding-and-protections-for-the-great-lakes-advances-in-the-senate,Peters and Slotkin Bipartisan Bill to Extend Federal Funding and Protections for the Great Lakes Advances in the Senate,2026-07-20,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee unanimously voted to advance the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act of 2026. The comprehensive bill includes a provision championed by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Elissa Slotkin (MI), based on their bipartisan Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Act of 2025. The Water Resources Development Act of 2026 would authorize $475 million in annual funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) through 2030.

“The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative is the most significant investment ever made to restore and protect our Great Lakes, and now more than ever, we need to ensure this vital program has the resources necessary to keep our treasured waterways healthy and vibrant,” said Senator Peters. “I’ll keep working in a bipartisan way to get this commonsense bill passed into law and help protect the Great Lakes for future generations.”

“The Great Lakes are a huge part of who we are as Michiganders and our way of life, but they’re also the backbone of our state economy,” said Senator Slotkin. “This crucial funding program helps keep it that way. I’ll keep fighting alongside both Republicans and Democrats to fully fund the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and get this bill signed into law.”

The GLRI combines federal and nonfederal efforts to stop the spread of carp and other invasive species, restore coastline and habitats connecting our streams and rivers, clean up environmentally damaged Areas of Concern, and prevent future contamination. While providing vital support for these efforts, the GLRI also helps ensure we can address new and emerging threats to the Great Lakes.

Since its inception, the GLRI has spurred tremendous progress in Michigan and throughout the Great Lakes region including nearly half of a million acres of habitat protected, restored, or enhanced, a five-fold increase in the successful cleanup and delisting of Areas of Concern, a ten-fold increase in the remediation of environmental and public health impairments, and reducing the threat of harmful algal blooms. The GLRI’s efforts have also resulted in economic returns of more than 3 to 1 across the region.

The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Act of 2025 is supported by the League of Conservation Voters, National Wildlife Federation, Sierra Club, National Parks Conservation Association, Council of Great Lakes Governors, Great Lakes Fishery Commission, American Great Lakes Ports Association, Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative, American Rivers, American Sportfishing Association, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Ducks Unlimited, Trout Unlimited, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, National Audubon Society - Great Lakes, Environmental Law & Policy Center, and other key stakeholders in Great Lakes protection.

Peters and Slotkin have been steadfast supporters of the Great Lakes, including by enacting the single-largest-ever investment in the GLRI through the bipartisan infrastructure law to accelerate the restoration of nine high-priority areas in Michigan whose lakes, rivers, and watersheds flow into the Great Lakes.

As Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, Peters plays a key role in uniting Great Lakes Basin states to coordinate legislative initiatives, funding priorities, and oversight efforts to address the most important issues facing the Great Lakes, such as invasive species, environmental contamination, shoreline erosion, water quality, infrastructure needs, and more.

###",1,2026-07-21T07:32:02Z,2026-07-21T07:33:33Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/07/16/slotkin-introduces-merit-act-to-require-national-security-experience-for-intelligence-leadership/,Slotkin Introduces MERIT Act to Require National Security Experience for Intelligence Leadership,2026-07-16,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"The MERIT Act comes as an unqualified loyalist of President Trump serves as acting DNI– and while the broader weaponization of the intelligence community is at risk

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) introduced the Minimum Experience Requirements for Intelligence Transition (MERIT) Act, legislation that would require any individual serving as Director of National Intelligence (DNI),including in an acting or interim capacity, to have extensive national security experience. The requirement reiterates the standard already applied to Senate-confirmed DNIs under the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004, championed by Senator Susan Collins and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.

The bill comes as Bill Pulte serves as Acting DNI, and ahead of President Trump’s address on elections this evening. Bill Pulte has spent his career in private equity and real estate and has no prior national security experience. As a federal housing official, he accessed and weaponized confidential mortgage records to target the President’s perceived enemies. With access to the full breadth of U.S. intelligence tools and information as DNI, he would be able to further weaponize government resources for political gain. The President has made clear he expects Pulte to use the position to investigate his unsubstantiated claims of “rigged elections” and to declassify material at his own discretion.

“As someone who was detailed to DNI as a CIA officer, I know firsthand that the DNI should be focused on foreign threats, not used to further conspiracy theories about stolen elections,” said Senator Slotkin. “The American people need intelligence leaders focused on defending our country, and who have experience in national security. Whether in a temporary role or otherwise, we need serious people who won’t misuse the IC’s time, personnel and tools to relitigate elections and undermine confidence in our democracy.”

Background:

Throughout his time in office, President Trump has kept up a sustained effort to undermine confidence in U.S. elections. He has:

Repeated false fraud claims. Over the past six months, President Trump has repeated his claim that elections are “rigged” nearly every day, at least 107 times. Going back to his first-ever campaign, the 2016 Iowa Caucuses, he has alleged voter fraud or a rigged process on at least a dozen separate occasions. In his first ever race, the 2016 Iowa Caucuses, he refused to accept he lost and alleged voter fraud.

Attempted to nationalize control of elections. The President has called on Republicans to “nationalize” the midterm elections and take over election administration in at least 15 states and has pushed legislation and rule changes that voting-rights advocates warn would disenfranchise millions of voters. He has dismantled our Election Assistance Commission, which helps every state carry out their elections. He has pushed our U.S. Postal Service to restrict mail-in-voting unless states have given over their voter rolls to the DOJ. And he pressed the Supreme Court to gut parts of the Voting Rights Act, allowing states to silence the voices of minority voters.

Weaponized our intelligence community: The President has used the power of our intelligence community to selectively declassify intelligence to support his false claims about elections. He has directed the intelligence community to target his enemies through the creation of weaponization working groups and the implementation of NSPM-7. And he has sent the former Director of National Intelligence Gabbard to a partisan raid of ballots in Fulton County, Georgia.

Attempted to seize election materials. Following the 2020 election, the administration drafted an executive order to direct the military to seize voting machines and election materials in battleground states; the President has since said he “should have” signed it. This year, armed FBI agents seized ballots in Fulton County, Georgia, the Department of Justice demanded 2024 ballots and related records from Detroit’s Wayne County, and federal investigators have probed the 2020 election results in Arizona. DOJ has also sued 30 states to obtain their voter rolls.

Refused to rule out troops or armed agents at the polls. The President has left open the possibility of deploying troops or armed federal agents to polling places, including during the upcoming midterms. Multiple senior officials, including the Acting Attorney General, the Secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security, and other political appointees, have repeatedly declined to rule this out when asked directly, by Senator Slotkin and others.

As the Administration continues to erode public trust in our election systems, and as Bill Pulte, an unqualified loyalist of the President, serves as a leader in the intelligence community, the broader intelligence community is at risk of becoming weaponized against the American people for the political gain of the President. This is a dangerous precedent that would allow for future leaders to utilize the intelligence community’s resources to further false conspiracy theories.

Read the full text of the bill here.",1,2026-07-17T07:15:58Z,2026-07-17T07:17:05Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/07/15/slotkin-gillibrand-colleagues-press-pentagon-to-release-findings-on-deadly-iran-school-strike/,"Slotkin, Gillibrand, Colleagues Press Pentagon to Release Findings on Deadly Iran School Strike",2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — This week, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), joined by 23 other colleagues, are placing additional pressure on the Department of Defense to release its findings on the February bombing of an elementary school in Iran. The attack on the Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School in Minab reportedly killed around 120 children and roughly 175 people overall, making it the deadliest civilian casualty event tied to U.S. military action in decades.

In a letter sent to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper, the senators urged the Pentagon to complete its investigation into the strike and publicly release its findings. The probe was reportedly turned in back in April but has remained under review by top military officials since then. The senators also asked the Department to give Congress a concrete plan for preventing a similar tragedy from happening again.

“More than four months after the strike, and after the reported submission of the investigation in April, Congress and the American people still have not received the Department’s investigation and findings,” the senators wrote. “There is no justification for withholding an unclassified accounting of what happened, what went wrong, and what the Department is doing to prevent recurrence.”

“These reported issues, if accurate, raise deeply troubling questions about the integrity of U.S. target development, the adequacy of target validation and vetting procedures, the interoperability of intelligence and targeting databases, the timeliness and reliability of intelligence used for lethal targeting, and the Department’s implementation of civilian harm mitigation policies,” the senators wrote. “They also raise urgent questions about whether the Department has sufficient targeting personnel, training, accountability mechanisms, and technical safeguards to support large-scale conventional operations.

The senators concluded, “The United States military has a legal and moral obligation to take all feasible precautions to prevent civilian harm. When a U.S. strike kills civilians, the Department owes Congress, the American people, and the victims’ families a clear accounting of what happened and a credible plan to prevent future failures.”

In addition to Senator Slotkin (D-MI), the letter was signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Senator Gillibrand (D-NY), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Edward Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Peter Welch (D-VT).

Read the letter to Secretary Hegseth here.

###",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-the-job-for-michigan-great-lakes-pfas-action-network-co-chair-highlights-peters-work-to-address-harmful-pfas-contamination,ON THE JOB FOR MICHIGAN: Great Lakes PFAS Action Network Co-Chair Highlights Peters’ Work to Address Harmful PFAS Contamination,2026-07-10,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – In a new “On the Job” video from U.S. Senator Gary Peters’ (MI) office, Co-Chair of the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network Tony Spaniola reflects on Peters’ continued efforts to address toxic per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in Michigan communities. In 2016, Spaniola learned that his home in Oscoda was impacted by PFAS contamination from the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base. In response, Peters has repeatedly worked with Spaniola and the Oscoda community to mitigate these harmful “forever chemicals” and remediate contaminated sites across Michigan. The video with Spaniola is part of the On the Job for Michigan series, which highlights Peters’ leadership and advocacy on behalf of Michigan constituents and communities.

“Many of us, including me, can’t drink our water from our private wells,” said Spaniola. “What we’ve come to learn about PFAS chemicals is that they also are very harmful at exceptionally low levels... Senator Peters recognized early on that this issue is one that has tremendous spread and reach.”

“What we’ve been able to do is to suggest to the Air Force and to the Department of Defense a strategy, a policy strategy, for dealing with PFAS cleanups around the country... We would have never gotten to first base with it if Senator Peters hadn’t been so critically involved,” Spaniola continued. “And that’s why his efforts, his involvement, his partnership with our community have been so, so, so valuable.”

Watch Spaniola’s “On the Job” video here. You can also watch the video on Instagram and Facebook.

“We have to protect Michiganders’ drinking water and our state’s precious natural resources from these toxic chemicals. That’s why the work to clean up areas affected by PFAS contamination is so important,” said Senator Peters. “We’ve made meaningful progress by bringing together federal, state, and local partners, like Tony, but there’s more work ahead. I’ll never stop fighting to address PFAS contamination and protect the health and safety of all Michiganders.”

Despite ongoing setbacks from the Department of Defense (DOD), Peters has long fought alongside Spaniola and other community leaders in Michigan to mitigate harmful PFAS contamination. Most recently, Peters demanded answers from the Trump Administration for its continued delays in cleaning up PFAS contamination at military installations in Michigan and across the country. In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Peters called on DOD to reverse its unacceptable postponement of PFAS remediation at military bases and requested detailed explanations for the delays in order to give servicemembers, their families, and the surrounding communities the transparency they deserve. Last year, Peters secured provisions in the national defense bill requiring DOD to develop a PFAS remediation acceleration strategy, create a PFAS transparency dashboard, and provide alternative drinking water – such as bottled water – to households with private drinking water wells that have been contaminated by PFAS as a result of DOD activities.

In September 2018, Peters helped convene the first-ever hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, which assessed the federal government’s response to PFAS contamination and remediation efforts. He then convened a field summit in Grand Rapids in November 2018 to shine a light on how local, state, and federal governments are coordinating responses to address PFAS contamination. Peters also convened a hearing in 2021 as Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to examine how servicemembers, their families, and communities across the country have been harmed by exposure to toxic PFAS substances connected to military sites. In 2022, Peters convened a field hearing in East Lansing with numerous administration officials to examine federal efforts and coordination with state and local governments to clean up and prevent contamination from PFAS, and to examine the impact exposure to these toxic chemicals has had on servicemembers, first responders, families, and other Michiganders.

Peters has also introduced and advanced bipartisan legislation to reduce the spread of PFAS chemicals at commercial airports. Peters’ Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act, which was signed into law in 2022, is working to deploy more existing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding for commercial airports to purchase devices to test their firefighting equipment without discharging toxic PFAS chemicals. In 2022, Peters’ bill to help protect firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure in the line of duty was also signed into law. Peters also secured $10 billion in federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for PFAS remediation efforts in Michigan and across the country.

###",1,2026-07-11T07:10:48Z,2026-07-11T07:14:29Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/07/07/slotkin-ossoff-demand-answers-after-hegseth-denied-military-officers-promotions-for-political-reasons/,"Slotkin, Ossoff Demand Answers After Hegseth Denied Military Officers’ Promotions for Political Reasons",2026-07-07,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA), and colleagues are demanding answers after reports that Secretary Hegseth denied military officers’ promotions for political reasons.

Secretary Hegseth reportedly blocked the promotion of eight Navy captains to be one-star admirals –– including the promotions of two female officers and two Black officers.

“We write concerning reports of your unprecedented decision to personally remove qualified Officers from consideration for promotion to Brigadier General, Major General and Flag Officer. These actions raise concerns regarding the criteria, process, and authorities utilized to make changes to promotion recommendations after completion of the highly regulated military promotion board process,” the Senators wrote to Secretary Hegseth.

“We recognize the importance of having the most qualified Officers serving in these positions of great responsibility. While there are valid reasons to remove Officers from consideration for promotion for reasons that often involve sensitive or adverse information; public reports indicate your actions may be politically motivated, disregards the many achievements of these Officers, and shirks the idea of an apolitical military. Additionally, there are reports that your decisions are affecting morale among all ranks of Officers,”the Senators continued.

Slotkin and Ossoff are joined by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Richard Durbin (D-IL), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Jeffrey Merkley (D-OR).

Click here to read the full letter.

###",1,2026-07-08T07:27:19Z,2026-07-08T07:28:28Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-senator-peters-releases-statement-ahead-of-the-250th-anniversary-of-the-founding-of-the-united-states-of-america,VIDEO: Senator Peters Releases Statement Ahead of the 250th Anniversary of the Founding of the United States of America,2026-07-03,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve, released a video statement ahead of the 250th anniversary of the founding of our nation.

“This is an incredible milestone that speaks to the strength of our democracy and the American people,” said Senator Peters. “Our founding fathers took an incredible risk by standing up to a king. In signing the Declaration of Independence, they sent a profound and revolutionary message that the world had not yet heard: that all people are created equal, and are guaranteed a right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

Click here for unedited video of his remarks and see below the text as delivered:

“Hello, I’m U.S. Senator Gary Peters. Happy 4th of July and 250th birthday to this great nation that we call home.

“This year, on July 4th, Michiganders and Americans across the country will gather together to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of our nation. This is an incredible milestone that speaks to the strength of our democracy and the American people.

“Our founding fathers took an incredible risk by standing up to a king.

“In signing the Declaration of Independence, they sent a profound and revolutionary message that the world had not yet heard: that all people are created equal and are guaranteed a right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

“250 years later, that document continues to serve as our guiding light. And throughout our nation’s entire history, we’ve worked to live up to those founding ideals.

“I believe that understanding our history is critical to understanding how we can move forward and chart a new course for the next 250 years.

“My hope for this anniversary is that we all take the time to reflect on the long and complex history of this nation, which includes the stories of every single American.

“Here in Michigan, that history includes the autoworkers and manufacturers who put the world on wheels, powered the industrial revolution, and created the American middle class.

“It includes visionaries like Berry Gordy and the founders of Motown, who created the iconic music that defined a generation and shaped the culture of Detroit.

“And it includes the generations of Michigan veterans and servicemembers who throughout our history have answered the call to defend our democracy, our freedoms, and the American ideals that we hold so dear. Their service is a debt that we will never be able to repay.

“So, while we should all take a moment to celebrate this incredible milestone, may this anniversary serve as a reminder of the work that we must do together to fulfill the promise of America for our children and grandchildren to come.

“God bless you, God bless all of our troops, and God bless the United States of America.”

###",1,2026-07-04T07:41:55Z,2026-07-04T07:42:45Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-slotkin-demand-answers-as-trump-administration-further-delays-toxic-pfas-chemical-cleanups-at-military-sites-in-michigan,Peters & Slotkin Demand Answers as Trump Administration Further Delays Toxic PFAS Chemical Cleanups at Military Sites in Michigan,2026-07-01,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Elissa Slotkin (MI) are demanding answers from the Trump Administration for its continued delays in cleaning up toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at military installations in Michigan and across the country. The delays come as Michigan communities and residents continue to face severe challenges with toxic PFAS contamination. Michigan is home to 16 military installations where DOD has identified or suspects PFAS contamination, including Camp Grayling and the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda. In a letter to U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) Secretary Pete Hegseth, the senators called on DOD to reverse its unacceptable postponement of PFAS remediation at military bases and requested detailed explanations for the delays in order to give servicemembers, their families, and the surrounding communities the transparency they deserve.

“We remain greatly concerned by the staggering delays at some installations, which include over 170 installations with delays ranging from 1 year to over 20 years,” the senators wrote. “Communities around these installations must not be left behind, and remediation work cannot wait.”

Recently, the Department of Defense (DOD) quietly updated its timetable for PFAS remediation at military sites across the country. Its new timeline, which was only recently made public but dated September 30, 2025, delayed cleanup efforts by over a decade at many installations and even up to two decades in some cases. In total, over 170 military sites were affected by this newest round of delays, including 8 sites in Michigan. This comes just months after DOD initially pushed the PFAS remediation timelines for roughly 150 bases late last year. In November 2025, Peters and Slotkin also led a letter with their colleagues to Secretary Hegseth demanding that he reverse those delays.

In their most recent letter, Peters and Slotkin wrote, “Furthering our concern is the fact that this most recent set of delays is backdated to September 30, 2025, raising the question of whether the Department has further expanded the breadth and extent of its delays in the previous nine months. The longer DOD takes to complete such remediation efforts, the greater the risk to public health and the environment in impacted communities.”

PFAS or “forever chemicals” are widespread contaminants found in many industrial applications and especially around U.S. military installations. At least 700 military sites in the United States are known or suspected to have PFAS contamination from DOD activities. PFAS exposure is linked to an array of health problems, including various cancers, reduced immune function, reproductive challenges, birth defects, thyroid issues, and more. The use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam at DOD facilities, and the subsequent stormwater runoff, is a significant source of drinking water pollution. This contamination poses serious health risks to servicemembers, their families, and the communities surrounding these military sites.

The full text of the letter to Secretary Hegseth can be found here.

###",1,2026-07-02T06:20:02Z,2026-07-02T06:21:32Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-requests-audit-into-commerce-secretary-lutnicks-unauthorized-dismantling-of-the-manufacturing-extension-partnership-program,Peters Requests Audit into Commerce Secretary Lutnick’s Unauthorized Dismantling of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program,2026-07-01,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, sent a letter to Acting Comptroller General Orice Williams Brown requesting a Government Accountability Office (GAO) investigation into whether the Department of Commerce (DOC), under Secretary Howard Lutnick, has followed the law and properly funded and managed the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Program. Michigan’s MEP Center, the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC), has helped Michigan's small and medium-sized businesses compete and grow for more than 30 years.

“The MEP Program enhances the competitiveness, productivity, and technological performance of the U.S. manufacturing sector,” Peters wrote. “However, since Secretary Lutnick took control of the Department of Commerce, the Department has put the future of the MEP Program and the services it provides to over 600,000 American manufacturers in deep uncertainty with an ever-shifting chronology of statements, actions, and reversals. A robust investigation by GAO would help determine whether and how officials at the Department circumvented or ignored congressional directives on MEP.”

The MEP Program, which is housed under the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) at the DOC, serves as a national network of go-to experts that help small and medium-sized manufacturers enhance productivity and adopt advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence. MEP Centers across the country provide assistance to help improve manufacturing firms’ processes and productivity, expand their capacity, utilize best management practices, and train their workforce. Despite its nearly 30-year history of successfully supporting manufacturing in America, on April 1, 2025, NIST began withholding and delaying funds for MEP Centers, greatly reducing federal MEP Program staff levels and leaving MEP Centers in a perpetual state of uncertainty that led to hiring freezes and layoffs in 90 percent of MEP Centers.

When pressed by senators on both sides of the aisle, the Department and Secretary Lutnick have repeatedly blamed the withholding of funds on years-old Department of Commerce Office of Inspector General findings.

“This apparent justification for withholding MEP funds lacks credibility, as the Commerce Department’s Inspector General personally confirmed to Democratic Committee staff that the OIG’s findings and recommendations were not a legal or otherwise appropriate grounds for the Department to defund the MEP program,” Peters continued.

This effort comes after Peters led his colleagues in sending a letter to the DOC in December demanding clear answers about why NIST was withholding and delaying congressionally approved funds to MEP Program Centers.

Peters has led numerous efforts in the Senate to bolster the MEP Program’s efforts to support workers and manufacturers. Peters helped author and pass into law the CHIPS and Science Act which increased funding for the MEP program. Peters secured $400,000 in federal funding for MMTC to help manufacturers in Michigan improve the strength of their supply chains. Peters also authored bipartisan legislation that was signed into law in 2017 to adjust federal cost-share ratio and implement new accountability and oversight provisions within the MEP program.

The full text of the letter can be found here.

###",1,2026-07-02T06:20:02Z,2026-07-02T06:21:32Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/07/01/peters-and-slotkin-demand-answers-as-trump-administration-further-delays-toxic-pfas-chemical-cleanups-at-military-sites-in-michigan/,Peters and Slotkin Demand Answers as Trump Administration Further Delays Toxic PFAS Chemical Cleanups at Military Sites in Michigan,2026-07-01,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) are demanding answers from the Trump Administration for its continued delays in cleaning up toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at military installations in Michigan and across the country. The delays come as Michigan communities and residents continue to face severe challenges with toxic PFAS contamination.

Michigan is home to 16 military installations where DOD has identified or suspects PFAS contamination, including Camp Grayling and the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda. In a letter to U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) Secretary Pete Hegseth, the senators called on DOD to reverse its unacceptable postponement of PFAS remediation at military bases and requested detailed explanations for the delays in order to give servicemembers, their families, and the surrounding communities the transparency they deserve.

“We remain greatly concerned by the staggering delays at some installations, which include over 170 installations with delays ranging from 1 year to over 20 years,” the senators wrote. “Communities around these installations must not be left behind, and remediation work cannot wait.”

Recently, the Department of Defense (DOD) quietly updated its timetable for PFAS remediation at military sites across the country. Its new timeline, which was only recently made public but dated September 30, 2025, delayed cleanup efforts by over a decade at many installations and even up to two decades in some cases. In total, over 170 military sites were affected by this newest round of delays, including 8 sites in Michigan. This comes just months after DOD initially pushed the PFAS remediation timelines for roughly 150 bases late last year. In November 2025, Peters and Slotkin also led a letter with their colleagues to Secretary Hegseth demanding that he reverse those delays.

In their most recent letter, Peters and Slotkin wrote, “Furthering our concern is the fact that this most recent set of delays is backdated to September 30, 2025, raising the question of whether the Department has further expanded the breadth and extent of its delays in the previous nine months. The longer DOD takes to complete such remediation efforts, the greater the risk to public health and the environment in impacted communities.”

PFAS or “forever chemicals” are widespread contaminants found in many industrial applications and especially around U.S. military installations. At least 700 military sites in the United States are known or suspected to have PFAS contamination from DOD activities. PFAS exposure is linked to an array of health problems, including various cancers, reduced immune function, reproductive challenges, birth defects, thyroid issues, and more. The use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam at DOD facilities, and the subsequent stormwater runoff, is a significant source of drinking water pollution. This contamination poses serious health risks to servicemembers, their families, and the communities surrounding these military sites.

The full text of the letter to Secretary Hegseth can be found here.

###",1,2026-07-02T06:20:02Z,2026-07-02T06:21:32Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/07/01/slotkin-joins-senate-colleagues-in-demanding-trump-halt-illegal-move-to-undermine-special-ed-civil-rights-enforcement/,"Slotkin Joins Senate Colleagues in Demanding Trump Halt Illegal Move to Undermine Special Ed, Civil Rights Enforcement",2026-07-01,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined her Senate Democratic colleagues in demanding the Trump administration put students first, follow the law, and immediately reverse course on transferring special education programs and civil rights enforcement out of the Department of Education (ED). These latest moves are part of the Trump administration’s explicit effort to dismantle ED, threatening key funding, support and services for students, schools, and families nationwide.

“The administration’s latest attempts to dismantle the Department of Education through the four Interagency Agreements (IAA) announced June 16, 2026 are outrageous and put the educational outcomes of students and their rights in the classroom at risk,” wrote the Senators in a letter to Education Secretary Linda McMahon.

“Special education and vocational rehabilitation are education programs. Any attempt to move these programs to HHS would fundamentally alter the purposes of these services, upending fifty years of work that took place at the federal, state, and local level to improve educational and employment outcomes for people with disabilities,” wrote the Senators. “It appears the administration values its backward goal of dismantling ED over the faithful execution of the law and improving opportunities and outcomes for children, youth, and students with disabilities.”

“We have a simple demand: follow our nation’s education and appropriations laws as Congress wrote them to protect students’ most basic right to a quality education. More than 80 education, disability, parent, and civil rights groups have vocally opposed the recent IAAs and other departmental changes. We call on this administration to immediately cease implementing these IAAs, fully implement IDEA and the Rehabilitation Act as Congressionally directed, and take immediate action to strengthen civil rights enforcement—instead of burying students’ cases behind more bureaucracy. Our students and their families deserve nothing less,” concluded the Senators.

This letter was led by Senators Baldwin, Murray, and Sanders and co-signed by Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Angus King (I-ME), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Chris Coons (D-DE), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Mark Warner (D-VA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Peter Welch (D-VT), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Tina Smith (D-MN), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), John Fetterman (D-PA), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Michael Bennet (D-CO).

A full version of this letter is available here.

###",1,2026-07-02T06:20:02Z,2026-07-02T06:21:32Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/07/01/slotkin-van-hollen-colleagues-press-epa-to-reinstate-epa-employees-retaliated-against-for-exercising-their-right-to-free-speech/,"Slotkin, Van Hollen, Colleagues Press EPA to Reinstate EPA Employees Retaliated Against for Exercising their Right to Free Speech",2026-07-01,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) were joined by more than 20 of their Senate colleagues in pressing Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin to reverse disciplinary actions taken on employees for signing a “Declaration of Dissent” in defense of scientific integrity, whistleblower rights, and constitutional protections last year.

“In light of recent evidence showing a violation of constitutional and whistleblower rights, we demand that you reverse the firings and disciplinary actions imposed on employees for signing a “Declaration of Dissent” in defense of scientific integrity, whistleblower rights, and constitutional protections,” the Senators began.

On the June 30, 2025 “Declaration of Dissent” letter the approximately 270 current and former EPA staff signed, the Senators wrote, “The language of the letter clearly states that the employees were signing in their personal capacity. EPA has not produced any evidence that would indicate that EPA employees used official resources or otherwise were acting in their professional capacity in writing and signing the “Declaration of Dissent,” nor has EPA provided a legitimate workplace-related justification for disciplining the signers of the letter that would possibly outweigh employees’ free speech rights.”

“Even after the recent revelations from EPA legal counsel, EPA continues to retaliate against staff by upholding the suspensions of over 140 workers and the firing of 20 others. Overturning the punishments is crucial to prevent a chilling effect on free speech. Stifling dissent cripples the agency’s ability to protect the public and is causing the loss of the experienced staff needed to carry out EPA’s mission,” they continued.

“Given the lack of any evidence of wrongdoing whatsoever, we support the EPA employees’ continued campaign to be exonerated and applaud them for the bravery it took to speak out about these matters of grave public concern. We call on you to reverse course, to reinstate all those who were fired for speaking out, and overturn all other discipline imposed. Speaking the truth is not a fireable offense. It is the public duty of every citizen who cares about protecting our health,” the Senators concluded.

Senator Van Hollen was joined in sending this letter by Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Coons (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Gary Peters (D-MI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Tina Smith (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD).

A copy of the letter is available here.

###",1,2026-07-02T06:20:02Z,2026-07-02T06:21:32Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-leads-bipartisan-bill-to-help-prevent-tuberculosis-infections-in-surgical-transplants,Peters Leads Bipartisan Bill to Help Prevent Tuberculosis Infections in Surgical Transplants,2026-06-30,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation to help prevent the spread of tuberculosis through transplanted human cell and tissue products (HCTP). The Shandra Eisenga Human Cell and Tissue Products Safety Act, which Peters introduced with U.S. Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS), was authored in response to a 2023 outbreak of tuberculosis in transplanted bone graft material which led to serious health complications and deaths for patients in Michigan and across the country. The legislation is named in honor of Shandra Eisenga of Marion in Osceola County, Michigan, who passed away on August 10, 2023, from post-surgical tuberculosis after receiving an infected graft. U.S. Representatives John Moolenaar (R-MI-04) and Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) introduced companion legislation in the House.

“Shandra’s death was devastating and preventable. No family should have to suffer through a tragic situation like this again, said Senator Peters. “This bill seeks to honor her memory by strengthening safety guidelines, oversight, and education for human cell tissue transplants.”

The Shandra Eisenga Human Cell and Tissue Products Safety Act addresses the spread of tuberculosis in human cell and tissue products by conducting a national, evidence-based educational campaign to increase patient and health care provider awareness regarding the risks of HCTP transplants. The bill also requires FDA to issue a report to Congress on approaches and recommendations regarding the regulation of human cell and tissue products . It also creates a civil penalty for companies that have violations not meeting compliance standards.

Peters previously introduced similar legislation last Congress. Immediately following the tuberculosis outbreak in 2023, Peters also sent a letter urging the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to provide additional guidance and updated donor ineligibility criteria for human issue transplant products.

###",1,2026-07-01T06:34:07Z,2026-07-01T06:35:35Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-leads-resolution-designating-june-as-great-outdoors-month,Peters Leads Resolution Designating June as “Great Outdoors Month”,2026-06-30,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) led a bipartisan resolution designating the month of June as “Great Outdoors Month.” The resolution – which Peters introduced with U.S. Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) – encourages responsible participation in outdoor recreational activities in state and national parks.

“Michigan’s natural beauty is part of what makes our state so great. Whether it’s the Great Lakes, our amazing coastlines, or serene parks, there is truly something for everyone here,” said Senator Peters. “I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan resolution to encourage more folks to get out and enjoy the natural treasures here in Michigan and all across our great nation, and to highlight the importance of preserving these lands and waters for generations to come.”

The resolution is supported by Outdoor Recreation Roundtable.

“Outdoor Recreation Roundtable applauds Senators Daines and Peters for once again leading this important tradition in the Senate and for their enduring commitment to growing a sustainable outdoor recreation economy for the benefit of all Americans. Great Outdoors Month is a moment to celebrate what the data makes clear: outdoor recreation is a $1.3 trillion economic engine supporting 5.2 million jobs and adding $351 million every day from recreation on federal lands and waters alone. Beyond the economics, decades of research confirm that getting outside — in urban and rural communities alike — improves health outcomes and quality of life across the board. We invite everyone to mark the occasion this month by enjoying the great outdoors,” said Jessica Turner, President, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable.

In 2025, the National Park Service reported a record 323 million recreation visits to America’s 63 national parks. Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources estimates 38 million visitors annually to Michigan’s 103 state parks.

Read the “Great Outdoors Month” resolution here.

###",1,2026-07-01T06:34:07Z,2026-07-01T06:35:35Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/06/29/slotkin-joins-michigan-delegation-urging-small-business-administration-to-approve-disaster-declaration/,Slotkin Joins Michigan Delegation Urging Small Business Administration to Approve Disaster Declaration,2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, joined members of the Michigan Congressional Delegation in urging the Small Business Administration (SBA) to support Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s request for an administrative disaster declaration following the severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, high winds, large hail and torrential rainfall across the state in April. U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), U.S. Representatives Jack Bergman (R-MI-01), John Moolenaar (R-MI-02), Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Tom Barrett (R-MI-07), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI-08), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), and Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13) joined Slotkin in signing the letter.

The severe weather, storms and flooding resulted in tens of millions in damages to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure across 43 counties. Hundreds of residents were displaced from their homes, and even roads washed out and dams across the state almost failed. In the immediate aftermath, affected communities now face significant financial challenges for years to come as they attempt to rebuild their damaged homes and businesses, repair mechanical and electrical systems, and replace personal belongings. Governor Whitmer’s request to the SBA would help to provide low-interest disaster loans for Michiganders, helping residents and small businesses recover and easing the financial strain during this critical period.

“These conditions forced hundreds of residents to be displaced from their homes, temporarily or permanently while others were left stranded on their properties. Utility services were disrupted across the state. Numerous roads were flooded or washed out, and tornadoes impacted numerous communities, damaging homes, businesses, and infrastructure. In response, over ten shelters were set up statewide. Residents now face financial hardship for years to come as they attempt to repair and restore their damaged homes and businesses to pre-disaster condition, repair or replace mechanical and electrical systems, and replace personal belongings,” the members wrote.

“The hardworking people and businesses across Michigan are strong and resilient. Yet, local capacity is limited, and recovery of this magnitude requires a coordinated effort at all levels of government. As such, we respectfully request that SBA swiftly approve Governor Whitmer’s request for an administrative declaration of disaster. This declaration would make available critical federal support and resources to struggling business owners as they continue working to stabilize operations, preserve jobs, and rebuild,” the members concluded.

Text of the letter is available here.

###",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/06/29/slotkin-peters-walberg-and-huizenga-urge-president-trump-to-reconsider-denial-of-major-disaster-declaration-for-southwest-michigan-communities-impacted-by-deadly-tornadoes/,"Slotkin, Peters, Walberg and Huizenga Urge President Trump to Reconsider Denial of Major Disaster Declaration for Southwest Michigan Communities Impacted by Deadly Tornadoes",2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI), both members of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, along with U.S. Representatives Tim Walberg (R-MI-05) and Bill Huizenga (R-MI-04), urged President Trump to reconsider his denial of a Major Disaster declaration for Southwest Michigan following deadly tornadoes that struck the region on March 6, 2026.

In their letter, the lawmakers supported Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s appeal and called for two program activations –– the Individual Assistance program for Branch, Cass, and St. Joseph Counties, as well as the activation of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program statewide.

“We write in support of Governor Whitmer’s June 23, 2026, appeal to the denial of the Major Disaster declaration request in response to tornadoes in Southwest Michigan on March 6, 2026,” the lawmakers wrote.“Tragically, the tornadoes resulted in the loss of four lives. In addition, the four tornadoes, ranging from EF-0 to EF-3, destroyed critical infrastructure, destroyed homes, displaced residents, and left considerable debris.”

In their letter, the lawmakers noted that while state and local governments, volunteer groups, and first responders worked quickly to support survivors, Michigan’s response and recovery capabilities have been overburdened by multiple recent disasters. In April, Slotkin and Peters urged President Trump to declare a Major Disaster for Southwest Michigan in response to the March tornados. Michigan has also experienced severe storms and flooding that caused damage across 42 counties in April.

“The degree of this disaster, coupled with multiple other recent disasters in Michigan, has surpassed the capabilities of the state and local governments,” continued the lawmakers. “Therefore, we respectfully ask you to reconsider the denial of a major disaster declaration to these communities in Michigan, and to approve this assistance to provide Michigan residents the necessary support to recover from this devastating and fatal disaster.”

“Without federal assistance, this lack of insurance may force residents to occupy unsafe alternatives,” the lawmakers wrote. “The survivors residing in the area need federal assistance to fully recover.”

Read the lawmakers’ full letter here.

###",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-slotkin-walberg-and-huizenga-urge-president-trump-to-reconsider-denial-of-major-disaster-declaration-for-southwest-michigan-communities-impacted-by-deadly-tornadoes,"Peters, Slotkin, Walberg & Huizenga Urge President Trump to Reconsider Denial of Major Disaster Declaration for Southwest Michigan Communities Impacted by Deadly Tornadoes",2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), along with U.S. Representatives Tim Walberg (R-MI-05) and Bill Huizenga (R-MI-04), urged President Trump to reconsider his denial of a Major Disaster declaration for Southwest Michigan following deadly tornadoes that struck the region on March 6, 2026. In their letter, the lawmakers supported Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s appeal and called for two program activations –– the Individual Assistance program for Branch, Cass, and St. Joseph Counties, as well as the activation of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program statewide.

“We write in support of Governor Whitmer’s June 23, 2026, appeal to the denial of the Major Disaster declaration request in response to tornadoes in Southwest Michigan on March 6, 2026,” the lawmakers wrote. “Tragically, the tornadoes resulted in the loss of four lives. In addition, the four tornadoes, ranging from EF-0 to EF-3, destroyed critical infrastructure, destroyed homes, displaced residents, and left considerable debris.”

In their letter, the lawmakers noted that while state and local governments, volunteer groups, and first responders worked quickly to support survivors, Michigan’s response and recovery capabilities have been overburdened by multiple recent disasters. In April, Peters led the lawmakers in urging President Trump to declare a Major Disaster for Southwest Michigan in response to the March tornados. Michigan has also experienced severe storms and flooding that caused damage across 42 counties in April — a disaster request Peters led the entire Michigan Congressional Delegation in urging the Administration to approve.

“The degree of this disaster, coupled with multiple other recent disasters in Michigan, has surpassed the capabilities of the state and local governments,” continued the lawmakers. “Therefore, we respectfully ask you to reconsider the denial of a major disaster declaration to these communities in Michigan, and to approve this assistance to provide Michigan residents the necessary support to recover from this devastating and fatal disaster.”

“Without federal assistance, this lack of insurance may force residents to occupy unsafe alternatives,” the lawmakers wrote. “The survivors residing in the area need federal assistance to fully recover.”

Read the lawmakers’ full letter here.

###",1,2026-07-08T07:27:19Z,2026-07-08T07:28:28Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-slotkin-demand-usps-abandon-proposed-rule-carrying-out-president-trumps-illegal-executive-order-restricting-vote-by-mail,Peters & Slotkin Demand USPS Abandon Proposed Rule Carrying Out President Trump’s Illegal Executive Order Restricting Vote by Mail,2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Elissa Slotkin (MI) demanded the United States Postal Service (USPS) abandon its proposed rule to implement President Trump’s unconstitutional executive order to restrict voting by mail. Peters and Slotkin previously urged USPS not to carry out the executive order, which would force states to submit absentee voters’ information to the Postal Service for the creation of a federal mail-in voter list. Under the order, USPS could then refuse to deliver ballots to voters who are not included on that list, giving the agency an unprecedented and illegal role in the administration of American elections. USPS did not respond to that letter and has now issued a proposed rule that would ultimately allow the Postal Service to determine whether millions of Americans can receive and cast ballots through the mail.

“We write for a second time regarding the unconstitutional and illegal attempt to transform the United States Postal Service into an election administration agency controlled by the White House and President Trump,” wrote the senators. “In April, 37 senators wrote to you after President Trump issued his Executive Order directing USPS to issue a rule to establish compulsory specifications for election mail and create a master absentee voter list of millions of American voters – with the power to refuse to deliver their ballots.”

The senators continued: “Despite these grave and serious legal deficiencies, on June 2, 2026, USPS published a proposed rule that, if finalized, would establish President Trump’s control over federal elections and allow USPS to adjudicate who can and cannot vote by mail. This proposed rule risks disenfranchising millions of voters. We again insist that you follow the law, refuse to implement President Trump’s Executive Order, and withdraw this presidentially-directed proposed rule.”

The senators warned that the proposed rule would create a federally controlled national list of absentee voters, raising serious concerns about potential misuse and abuse. In court filings, the Administration has acknowledged that the Department of Homeland Security is already in discussions with USPS about potentially comparing the list to DHS datasets. The senators raised concerns that combining USPS data with unreliable federal records could lead to eligible voters being disenfranchised, or voters and election officials being unfairly targeted for investigation.

“Ultimately, the proposed rule seeks to create a centralized national absentee voter database with individualized barcodes connected to the voters’ names under the control of the President that contains the voting information of millions of Americans,” wrote the senators. “That information would be ripe for potential abuse or improper disclosure potentially imperiling the integrity of American elections.”

“Accordingly, we insist that the Postal Service abandon this proposed regulation and return to its core mission of providing universal postal services to every American. The Constitution and federal law demand nothing less,” the senators concluded.

Read the full letter to the U.S. Postal Service here.

###",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/06/25/icymi-slotkin-presses-postmaster-general-on-concerns-over-mail-in-voting-access/,ICYMI: Slotkin Presses Postmaster General on Concerns Over Mail-in Voting Access,2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Slotkin, Shaheen, Duckworth, Schatz, Rosen, Merkley, Kim, Release Statement on Meeting with the Speaker of Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tammy...

Slotkin and Peters Demand USPS Abandon Proposed Rule Carrying Out President Trump’s Illegal Executive Order Restricting Vote by Mail

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) demanded the United States Postal...

Slotkin, Bennet, Booker, Fetterman, Luján, Warnock, Introduce Legislation to Provide Assistance to Specialty Crop Farmers

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Reverend Raphael...

Slotkin Joins Bipartisan Bill to Cap Monthly Insulin Costs at $35 on Private Insurance

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) in...

Slotkin Statement Senate Passage of Bipartisan Housing Legislation

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following...

ICYMI: Slotkin Press Conference on Bill to Stop Trump from Deploying Military to Interfere in Elections

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Alex Padilla (D-CA)...

Slotkin Leads Purple State Senators on Bill to Stop Trump from Using Military or Federal Law Enforcement to Interfere with Elections

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Armed Services...

During Pentagon Budget Markup, Republicans Block Slotkin Amendments to Protect Elections from Illegal Military Interference

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Armed Services...

Slotkin Statement on Voting No in the Armed Services Committee on 2027 Pentagon Budget

Worked to secure $200 million for Selfridge and $4.4 million for Grayling, first-ever guardrails on DoD AI use, ban...",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/06/25/slotkin-and-peters-demand-usps-abandon-proposed-rule-carrying-out-president-trumps-illegal-executive-order-restricting-vote-by-mail/,Slotkin and Peters Demand USPS Abandon Proposed Rule Carrying Out President Trump’s Illegal Executive Order Restricting Vote by Mail,2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) demanded the United States Postal Service (USPS) abandon its proposed rule to implement President Trump’s unconstitutional executive order to restrict voting by mail. Slotkin and Peters previously urged USPS not to carry out the executive order, which would force states to submit absentee voters’ information to the Postal Service for the creation of a federal mail-in voter list. Under the order, USPS could then refuse to deliver ballots to voters who are not included on that list, giving the agency an unprecedented and illegal role in the administration of American elections. USPS did not respond to that letter and has now issued a proposed rule that would ultimately allow the Postal Service to determine whether millions of Americans can receive and cast ballots through the mail.

“We write for a second time regarding the unconstitutional and illegal attempt to transform the United States Postal Service into an election administration agency controlled by the White House and President Trump,” wrote the senators. “In April, 37 senators wrote to you after President Trump issued his Executive Order directing USPS to issue a rule to establish compulsory specifications for election mail and create a master absentee voter list of millions of American voters – with the power to refuse to deliver their ballots.”

The senators continued: “Despite these grave and serious legal deficiencies, on June 2, 2026, USPS published a proposed rule that, if finalized, would establish President Trump’s control over federal elections and allow USPS to adjudicate who can and cannot vote by mail. This proposed rule risks disenfranchising millions of voters. We again insist that you follow the law, refuse to implement President Trump’s Executive Order, and withdraw this presidentially-directed proposed rule.”

The senators warned that the proposed rule would create a federally controlled national list of absentee voters, raising serious concerns about potential misuse and abuse. In court filings, the Administration has acknowledged that the Department of Homeland Security is already in discussions with USPS about potentially comparing the list to DHS datasets. The senators raised concerns that combining USPS data with unreliable federal records could lead to eligible voters being disenfranchised, or voters and election officials being unfairly targeted for investigation.

“Ultimately, the proposed rule seeks to create a centralized national absentee voter database with individualized barcodes connected to the voters’ names under the control of the President that contains the voting information of millions of Americans,” wrote the senators. “That information would be ripe for potential abuse or improper disclosure potentially imperiling the integrity of American elections.”

“Accordingly, we insist that the Postal Service abandon this proposed regulation and return to its core mission of providing universal postal services to every American. The Constitution and federal law demand nothing less,” the senators concluded.

Read the full letter to the U.S. Postal Service here.

###",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/06/25/slotkin-shaheen-duckworth-schatz-rosen-merkley-kim-release-statement-on-meeting-with-the-speaker-of-taiwans-legislative-yuan/,"Slotkin, Shaheen, Duckworth, Schatz, Rosen, Merkley, Kim, Release Statement on Meeting with the Speaker of Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan",2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Andy Kim (D-NJ) released a statement following a meeting with the President of Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan, Speaker Han Kuo-Yu, and additional legislators from the Kuomintang (KMT) party, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP):

“We appreciated the opportunity to meet with Speaker Han Kuo-Yu and members of Taiwan’s legislature from all political parties to discuss the strong partnership between the United States and Taiwan. Our relationship is grounded in shared democratic values and a common commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. Consistent with the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances, we remain committed to maintaining close and friendly relations with Taiwan, providing Taiwan with arms for self-defense and supporting deterrence against growing coercion from the People’s Republic of China. We also welcome Taiwan’s historic investments in the American economy, which will create high-paying jobs for U.S. citizens and bolster our technology sector. Congress should continue to advance legislation that addresses the double-taxation issue and provides relief to U.S. and Taiwanese businesses.

“We are encouraged by the earnest and substantial cross-party efforts in Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan to advance a $25 billion special defense budget that will enhance the island’s self-defense capabilities, including through U.S.-provided defensive arms. Taiwan’s commitment to investing in its own security is critical, and we encourage swift action on additional investments in Taiwan’s domestic defense production. Just as Taiwan’s leaders have demonstrated unity in support of their people’s defense, the Trump Administration must do the same by moving without further delay on the $14 billion in U.S. arms sales to Taiwan that Congress approved more than six months ago. These arms are a vital investment in Taiwan’s security, regional stability and America’s own economic and national security.

“China continues to increase its destabilizing pressure on Taiwan, exemplified by its daily grey zone aggression, regular incursions across the median line and provocative military exercises. A conflict across the Taiwan Strait would have devastating consequences for global security and the world economy. That is why the United States must continue to provide the defensive arms to Taiwan that have served over four decades as an effective bulwark against PRC military aggression.”

###",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/06/24/slotkin-bennet-booker-fetterman-lujan-warnock-introduce-legislation-to-provide-assistance-to-specialty-crop-farmers/,"Slotkin, Bennet, Booker, Fetterman, Luján, Warnock, Introduce Legislation to Provide Assistance to Specialty Crop Farmers",2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Michael Bennet (D-CO), and John Fetterman (D-PA) introduced the Cultivating Horticultural Innovation in Local Economies (CHILE) Act to expand federal protections for specialty crop growers hurt by financial losses and market instability.

The CHILE Act builds on a Specialty Crop Emergency Assistance Framework included in the House-passed Farm Bill, requiring USDA to use that structure when sending direct aid to these producers. Right now, specialty crop growers don’t have the same kind of reliable, standardized disaster relief safety net that other farmers enjoy. The CHILE Act would change that by creating a predictable, consistent process for getting emergency help to these growers when they need it most.

“No one does specialty crops like Michigan. We grow everything from cherries, to asparagus, to blueberries, and all are enduring incredible instability,” said Senator Slotkin. “The CHILE Act is built around their unique needs and provides billions in direct assistance to help ensure Michigan remains one of the most agriculturally diverse states. Making the federal government work for specialty crop producers is a priority, and this bill is a good step in the right direction.”

The CHILE Act would:

Require USDA to use the Specialty Crop Emergency Assistance Framework when providing direct assistance to specialty crop growers;

Clarify that specialty crops include fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, and nursery crops, including floriculture; and

Provide $5 billion in direct assistance to specialty crop producers for fiscal year 2027.

“Specialty crop growers are critical to New Mexico’s agricultural economy and to feeding communities across the nation,” said Senator Luján. “When disasters, market disruptions, and other challenges threaten their livelihoods, growers deserve a reliable process for getting the emergency assistance they need. My CHILE Act strengthens support for specialty crop producers by ensuring USDA has and uses a reliable framework to provide timely assistance when specialty crop growers need it most.”

“Anyone who has ever enjoyed Georgia peaches, blueberries, pecans, or Vidalia onions knows that Georgia’s specialty crop producers are so important to our state’s agricultural economy and our culture,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “The CHILE Act would provide specialty crop producers expanded access to USDA support should disaster strike. I’m proud to work with my colleagues on this legislation.”

“Specialty crop farmers are being squeezed from every direction. President Trump canceled the contracts that had local farmers supply food to schools and food banks, while his reckless tariff and trade policies have driven up costs. Despite all of this, the USDA’s ‘Farmer Bridge Assistance Program’ shortchanged specialty crop farmers on their fair share of support and saddled them with a burdensome application process that is ill-suited to how specialty crop farms operate. We need real investment in specialty crop farms, designed to meet farmer needs,” said Senator Booker.

“Colorado specialty crop farmers deserve a reliable and predictable disaster assistance framework, just like other agricultural producers,” said Senator Bennet. “Too often, disasters and market disruptions leave specialty crop growers facing significant economic uncertainty. The CHILE Act will help ensure growers have access to the support they need during challenging times, helping family farms remain viable and strengthening Colorado’s agricultural economy.”

“Pennsylvania farmers help put food on our tables, create local jobs, and keep our agricultural economy moving. Having a framework that allows them to get the direct assistance they need is just one step in safeguarding farmers in times of economic loss,” said Senator Fetterman. “I’m proud to support this legislation that would strengthen federal support allowing these specialty crop farmers to have the funding and tools they need to help succeed today and everyday.”

Full bill text is available here.

###",1,2026-06-25T06:30:03Z,2026-06-25T06:31:21Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/during-national-homeownership-month-peters-reintroduces-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-housing-financial-literacy-and-lower-costs-for-first-time-homebuyers,"During National Homeownership Month, Peters Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve Housing Financial Literacy and Lower Costs for First-Time Homebuyers",2026-06-23,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – During National Homeownership Month, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) reintroduced bipartisan legislation that aims to improve housing financial literacy and lower costs for prospective first-time homeowners. The Housing Financial Literacy Act would provide those who complete a housing counseling course certified by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) with the opportunity to claim a 0.25% deduction on their Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgage insurance premium. The bill specifies first-time homebuyers must complete the course prior to applying for a mortgage or entering into a sales agreement.

“Purchasing a home can be a stressful, confusing, and complicated process, especially as we face a housing affordability crisis in our country. We must ensure all Michiganders have resources that can help them prepare for successful homeownership,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan bill incentivizes first-time homebuyers to gain these important skills while giving them a leg up on their mortgage payments and long-term financial stability.”

Peters introduced this bipartisan legislation with U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX). The bill is supported by America’s Credit Unions, the National Association of Realtors, and the National Housing Resource Center.

""Buying a home remains one of the most significant milestones on the path to financial security, and far too many first-time buyers face that journey without adequate support. Senator Peters' legislation changes that by pairing financial literacy with meaningful incentives, recognizing that informed consumers are stronger borrowers. Credit unions have long been in this work: educating members, demystifying the mortgage process, and securing affordable loans that fit real lives. Congress should pass this bill and further support housing efforts,” said Kathleen Coulombe, Chief Advocacy Officer at America’s Credit Unions.

“Homeownership begins with knowledge. The bipartisan Housing Financial Literacy Act would help equip first-time homebuyers with the financial education and tools they need to navigate one of the most important decisions of their lives. By promoting greater financial literacy, this legislation can help expand access to sustainable homeownership, strengthen household financial stability, and support stronger communities across the country. The National Association of REALTORS® is proud to support Senator Peters and Senator Cornyn's efforts to empower consumers and create more pathways to achieving the American Dream of homeownership,” said Shannon McGahn, Chief Advocacy Officer and Executive Vice President of the National Association of REALTORS®.

“The Housing Financial Literacy Act is smart legislation to support First-Time-Homebuyers who are getting FHA insured loans, by providing a modest mortgage insurance premium reduction if they complete homebuyer housing counseling. This prepares the homebuyer, reduces risk for the lender, and helps protect the FHA fund against delinquency and default losses. This is the classic win-win situation for homeownership, at a time when homebuyers need all the support they can get,” said Bruce Dorpalen, Executive Director, National Housing Resource Center.

Peters has previously called for action to address the affordable housing crisis in Michigan. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Peters has secured federal funding for affordable housing projects across Michigan. Peters also recently helped the Senate advance the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, bipartisan legislation that would make progress to bring housing costs down for Michigan families by growing the current housing supply and improving federal programs that help communities develop new housing projects.

###",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-helps-senate-pass-bipartisan-bill-to-lower-housing-costs,Peters Helps Senate Pass Bipartisan Bill to Lower Housing Costs,2026-06-23,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped the Senate pass bipartisan legislation that would bring housing costs down and help Michigan communities increase their current housing supply. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act would strengthen federal programs that improve housing accessibility and incentivize communities to develop new housing projects. The bill now heads back to the U.S. House of Representatives for final passage.

“Michiganders are experiencing a housing affordability crisis, and for too long, the federal government has stayed on the sidelines,” said Senator Peters. “After decades of inaction, I’m proud to have helped pass this bipartisan bill that bolsters federal housing investments and removes regulatory hurdles to help lower housing costs for Michiganders.”

This comprehensive package includes numerous reforms, including provisions to:

Require the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to increase multifamily loan limits to match housing market costs.

Prohibits large investors, such as private equity firms, from purchasing single-family homes, which will put more houses on the market for local buyers and limit landlords from driving up rent costs.

Reauthorize the HOME Program and allow for new flexibilities to convert run-down buildings into new housing units.

Expand eligible uses of the Community Development Block Grant Program to include affordable housing construction.

Lift existing caps on the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program. This provision will help additional public housing authorities to convert legacy Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) projects into Project Based Rental Assistance Housing.

Reform the USDA’s Rural Housing Service Program to preserve housing units in rural areas.

Peters has called for action to address the affordable housing crisis in Michigan. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Peters also secured federal funding for affordable housing projects across Michigan. He has also led bipartisan legislation that seeks to help Michiganders navigate the complex homebuying process and help bring housing costs down.

###",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/06/23/slotkin-joins-bipartisan-bill-to-cap-monthly-insulin-costs-at-35-on-private-insurance/,Slotkin Joins Bipartisan Bill to Cap Monthly Insulin Costs at $35 on Private Insurance,2026-06-23,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) in cosponsoring the bipartisan INSULIN Act that would make life more affordable for Americans living with diabetes, by capping out-of-pocket costs for people on private insurance at $35.

Support for the legislation totals 28 Republican and Democratic Senators, and importantly, surpasses the Senate’s 60-vote-threshold.

“No one should have to go without the medicine they need to live just because of how much it costs,” said Slotkin. “I voted to cap insulin prices at $35 for those on Medicare, and now, this bipartisan bill extends that cap to everyone on private insurance. This is long overdue progress, and we must keep working to lower prescription drug costs for every American.”

Slotkin is a longtime supporter of lowering the price of prescription drugs. She voted to cap the cost of insulin in the Inflation Reduction Act at $35 for people on Medicare, and to finally lower Medicare to negotiate lower prices for some drugs – lowering costs for seniors.

The Improving Needed Safeguards for Users of Lifesaving Insulin Now (INSULIN) Act would cap the monthly out-of-pocket cost of insulin at $35 for Americans on private and employer-sponsored insurance and create a pilot program to provide insulin at the same cost to Americans without insurance.

The push to cap the monthly cost of insulin comes as the cost of health care continues to top Americans’ affordability concerns.The INSULIN Act would directly address the root problems in the insulin market causing high list prices, while simultaneously extending vital patient protections, fostering competition and broadening access to needed insulin products. Specifically, the INSULIN Act:

Limits out-of-pocket costs for patients with diabetes by ensuring that group and individual market health plans must waive any deductible and limit cost-sharing to no more than $35 per month for at least one insulin of each type and dosage form.

Mandates pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) pass through 100% of insulin rebates and other discounts received from manufacturers to plan sponsors, reducing perverse incentives in the insulin market that encourage high list prices and help patients in the form of reduced premiums.

Promotes generic and biosimilar competition to lower costs for patients.

Creates a pilot grant program for 10 states to implement programs to identify uninsured diabetes patients and provide them with insulin at $35 a month.

Establishes an insulin resource center and hotline for uninsured diabetes patients to connect them with resources about diabetes and programs to help them secure insulin.

The bipartisan legislation is supported by the American Diabetes Association, Breakthrough T1D, the Endocrine Society, the National Kidney Foundation and others.

In addition to Slotkin and Shaheen, the legislation is supported by U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Angus King (I-ME), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Susan Collins (R-ME) , Raphael Warnock (D-GA), John Kennedy (R-LA), and Dave McCormick (R-PA), Katie Britt (R-AL), Chris Coons (D-DE), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Jim Justice (R-WV), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Joni Ernst (R-IA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jim Banks (R-IN) and Cory Booker (D-NJ).

###",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/06/23/slotkin-statement-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-housing-legislation/,Slotkin Statement Senate Passage of Bipartisan Housing Legislation,2026-06-23,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Slotkin Joins Bipartisan Bill to Cap Monthly Insulin Costs at $35 on Private Insurance

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) in...

ICYMI: Slotkin Press Conference on Bill to Stop Trump from Deploying Military to Interfere in Elections

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Alex Padilla (D-CA)...

Slotkin Leads Purple State Senators on Bill to Stop Trump from Using Military or Federal Law Enforcement to Interfere with Elections

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Armed Services...

During Pentagon Budget Markup, Republicans Block Slotkin Amendments to Protect Elections from Illegal Military Interference

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Armed Services...

Slotkin Statement on Voting No in the Armed Services Committee on 2027 Pentagon Budget

Worked to secure $200 million for Selfridge and $4.4 million for Grayling, first-ever guardrails on DoD AI use, ban...

Slotkin Helps Lead Effort Pushing for USDA Action on New World Screwworm Outbreak

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Agriculture...

Slotkin, Peters Urge Swift Approval of Major Disaster Declaration

WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI), both members of the Senate Homeland...

Slotkin, Peters Statement on Nomination of Michael Martin to the Eastern District of Michigan

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin and Gary Peters released the following statements after...

Slotkin Joins Bipartisan Effort to Protect Battle Creek Missions

This effort champions the preservation of missions and servicemembers, like those at Battle Creek in Michigan....

Slotkin, Klobuchar, Colleagues Raise Concerns on Prediction Markets

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), both members of the Committee on...

TODAY: Slotkin, Schiff and Kelly Introduce Drain the Slush Fund Act to Block President Trump from Weaponizing DOJ Settlements

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced...",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-urges-agriculture-committee-to-include-his-bipartisan-after-act-in-farm-bill,Peters Urges Agriculture Committee to Include His Bipartisan AFTER Act in Farm Bill,2026-06-18,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) urged his colleagues on the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee to include his Animal Freedom from Testing, Experimentation, and Research (AFTER) Act in the Senate version of the 2026 Farm Bill. Senator Peters introduced the AFTER Act to ensure that federal agencies that use animals for research have policies in place to facilitate the safe relocation of retired, healthy lab animals to adoptive homes, animal rescues, or reputable sanctuaries. In the letter, Peters emphasized that many of the approximately 40,000 animals used for research across 12 federal agencies each year are suitable for adoption, and that these healthy animals should not be euthanized by the government. He also stressed the importance of ensuring that the highest standards of humane animal care and treatment are upheld in taxpayer-funded research.

“In fiscal year 2024, the federal government experimented on approximately 40,000 regulated animals for research purposes across twelve federal agencies,” Peters wrote. “The Animal Freedom from Testing, Experimentation, and Research (AFTER) Act is simple: it makes retirement and adoption an option for healthy laboratory animals.”

“Animals that are suitable for adoption or retirement should not be killed by our federal government. Including the AFTER Act in the Senate Farm Bill would provide the necessary direction for federal agencies to move forward with developing retirement policies, ensuring that federal research upholds the highest standards of humane care and treatment and helping to prevent the needless euthanasia of healthy animals. We respectfully request that this widely supported reform be included in the Senate Farm Bill and retained in the final, bicameral package,” Peters continued.

Peters introduced the AFTER Act with U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME). The legislation requires that animals be evaluated by a licensed veterinarian and pronounced both mentally and physically healthy before leaving an agency, helping to ensure a smooth transition to a new environment. The bill also encourages federal agencies to work with nonprofit organizations to help place retired animals in sanctuaries and shelters across the country.

This legislation has been endorsed by the Humane World Action Fund, White Coat Waste, and the Kindness Ranch Animal Sanctuary.

Click here for the full text of the letter.

Peters has long made animal protection a priority. Peters authored the Planning for Animal Wellness Act which was passed by Congress and signed into law. This law helps protect pets and other animals during and in the aftermath of natural disasters by requiring the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to establish an advisory group to offer guidance regarding animal protection in federal disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.

###",1,2026-06-19T06:50:32Z,2026-06-19T06:53:40Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/06/18/icymi-slotkin-press-conference-on-bill-to-stop-trump-from-deploying-military-to-interfere-in-elections/,ICYMI: Slotkin Press Conference on Bill to Stop Trump from Deploying Military to Interfere in Elections,2026-06-18,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) held a press conference to announce the introduction of the Protect our Polls Act, new legislation that would stop President Trump’s ability to deploy troops or armed federal agents to polling places or to seize election material. Read more about the bill here.

This press conference comes after Trump has hinted, at various times, that he’s willing to undermine our election process. Slotkin has repeatedly asked Trump nominees, from Secretary Hegseth on down about illegal orders, and sending troops to polling places. She also explicitly questioned Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin about sending ICE to the polls. Last December, she pressed Department of Defense officials on the issue in a Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and pressed the NORTHCOM commander to confirm as well.

Watch the speech here.

Download the speech here.

Download transcript here

###",1,2026-06-19T06:50:32Z,2026-06-19T06:53:40Z
https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/06/18/slotkin-leads-purple-state-senators-on-bill-to-stop-trump-from-using-military-or-federal-law-enforcement-to-interfere-with-elections/,Slotkin Leads Purple State Senators on Bill to Stop Trump from Using Military or Federal Law Enforcement to Interfere with Elections,2026-06-18,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, is joined by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) in introducing the Protect Our Polls Act to protect the integrity of American elections from federal interference by armed uniformed military or federal law enforcement.

The Protect Our Polls Act defends our free and fair elections, preserves the apolitical nature of our military, and protects servicemembers from illegal orders, an issue that Slotkin prominently raised last year in her video with Senator Kelly and other members of Congress.

“President Trump has been saying the quiet part out loud: he wants to undermine our elections any way he can, and he refuses to rule out sending uniformed military to the polls, or to collect ballots and voting machines,” said Senator Slotkin. “Our legislation prevents President Trump from weaponizing our military and armed federal officers to interfere in our elections. From 2016 until just last week, President Trump has worked to sow doubt in our election results, and I am glad to be joined by Senators from across the country, especially states like Arizona, Georgia, Minnesota and Wisconsin which, along with Michigan, the president has targeted. All states that may very well decide who controls the House and Senate.”

The Protect our Polls Act makes existing federal law stronger, further restricting the deployment of military forces and armed federal agents to polling places. It closes an existing loophole by requiring Congress to pass a Joint Resolution of Approval before the president can send troops or federal law enforcement to election sites for the only exception to the blanket ban: to repel armed enemies of the United States. The President must also provide Congress with intel, legal justification, and evidence that state or local government cannot handle a threat on their own, at least 48 hours before deploying forces.

“Our democracy depends on Americans being able to show up to the ballot box and have their voices heard,” said Senator Baldwin. “But that’s all at risk this November as President Trump openly weighs sending in armed federal agents to our schools, churches, fire stations, and other polling locations. President Trump has shown time and again he’s willing to use and abuse the full force of the federal government to intimidate and harm Americans, punish his enemies, and get his way. And that is just what he is trying to do this November because he is afraid accountability is coming for him. We can’t allow President Trump to come between Americans and their constitutional right to vote, and that’s why we are fighting to protect Americans’ access to the ballot box, stop President Trump from surging federal agents to our polling locations, and make sure your voice is heard.”

“As a Marine, I took an oath to the Constitution, not a president. As did all troops. Using our servicemembers to intimidate Americans at the polls is disgusting, illegal, and exactly the kind of abuse this bill stops cold,” said Senator Gallego.

“Free and fair elections are the foundation of our democracy. The idea that a president would send troops or armed agents to polling places to intimidate voters is un-American and illegal,” said Kelly. “Federal law has protected polling places from military interference since the Civil War for a reason. President Trump has made clear he thinks he can ignore those limits. We’re making sure he can’t.”

“Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of our democracy and the freedom to vote is fundamental,” said Senator Klobuchar. “Yet we continue to see unprecedented attacks on our democracy and on voting rights, as well as concerns that federal officers could be deployed to polling locations to intimidate voters. This legislation reiterates that those attempts at voter intimidation are unlawful and protects Americans’ constitutional right to vote.”

“Our elections have been kept safe and reliable by state and local officials during the entire history of our nation. There is absolutely no need for federal troops to be stationed outside of polls, and any such attempt is part of Donald Trump’s efforts to intimidate eligible voters,” said Senator Rosen. “Not only would this action be unlawful, it goes against the political foundation of this country and threatens every American’s right to vote. I’m proud to help introduce this critical legislation to prevent Donald Trump from sending military troops to polling locations to intimidate law-abiding Americans.”

“The right to vote is the foundation of our democracy,” said Senator Padilla. “No American should have to pass a line of federal troops, ICE agents, or armed officers to exercise that right. The Protect Our Polls Act will make sure they never have to.”

“This administration has made clear that they will stop at nothing to prevent the American people from making their voices heard this November,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “The attacks we are seeing on voting rights are a testament to the strength of our voices when we stand up, speak out, and participate in our democracy. We must act now to confront this threat and protect every American’s right to vote. Our democracy is on the line.”

BACKGROUND:

Slotkin has repeatedly asked Trump nominees, from Secretary Hegseth on down about illegal orders, and sending troops to polling places. She also explicitly questioned Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin about sending ICE to the polls. Last December, she pressed Department of Defense officials on the issue in a Senate Armed Services Committee, and pressed the NORTHCOM commander to confirm as well.

How Trump has undermined elections:

– In the last 6 months, Trump has repeated his claim about “rigged” elections nearly every day, totaling at least 107 times.

– He has attempted to seize ballots in Georgia, Michigan, and Arizona, and sued 30 states for their voter rolls.

– He drafted an executive order in December 2020 to send in the National Guard to seize ballots and voting machines but said this January that he should have signed it.

– He has floated sending law enforcement to the polls since 2020 and said before the 2024 election that the military should be sent to the polls to go after the “enemy within.” 8 political appointees have refused to rule out sending troops or law enforcement to the polls to the press or during hearings, and the President left the door open to do so during midterms on May 12.

– He said Republicans should nationalize the voting in at least 15 states on February 1, then two days later doubled down and said the Federal government should get involved in state elections.

– During the State of the Union, Trump said “their policy is so bad that the only way they can get elected is to cheat, and we’re going to stop it.” He signed an executive order in March to restrict mail-in-voting, and USPS released proposed rules earlier this month to deny vote-by-mail to any state that refuses to hand over their voter rolls.

– The very first election Donald Trump ran in, the Iowa Caucuses, he claimed voter fraud that enabled Ted Cruz to win.

The one pager is available here.

###",1,2026-06-19T06:50:32Z,2026-06-19T06:53:40Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-reintroduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-increase-tribal-input-in-identifying-natural-resource-concerns,Peters Reintroduces Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Tribal Input in Identifying Natural Resource Concerns,2026-06-17,2026,2026-06,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation to increase tribal input in the priority resource concern (PRC) determination process. A priority resource concern (PRC) is a natural resource issue such as soil erosion, surface and groundwater contamination, or plant and animal health. Under current law, PRCs are identified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in collaboration with state and local entities. Peters’ Tribal Conservation Priorities Inclusion Act – which he reintroduced with U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) – would amend the law to include tribes as entities that can help identify PRCs.

“Effectively identifying threats to our state’s precious natural resources is critical to keeping our environment strong and healthy for future generations. We need to ensure our tribal communities, who have a deep understanding of these issues, can voice their concerns. I’ll keep working to get this commonsense bill passed to improve the inclusivity and success of this process,” said Senator Peters.

“The Tribal Conservation Priorities Inclusion Act helps strengthen the bonds between Indian Country and our federal partners by highlighting tribal visibility,” said Austin Lowes, Chairman of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. “The measures of this bill will help ensure tribes and tribal lands have a clearer role in conservation programs moving forward. This is essential in strengthening the government-to-government relations that are integral to tribal sovereignty.”

Peters’ bill would not require any changes to the PRC determination process – it simply ensures tribally identified conservation priorities are taken into consideration. Adding tribes to the list of entities that can identify PRCs would increase tribal visibility during the PRC determination process, facilitate a deeper consideration of tribally driven concerns, and gives tribal communities equal opportunity for National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) funding. NRCS is the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) primary conservation agency and provides financial assistance and personalized conservation planning to help producers meet their unique natural resource conservation and business goals.

Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representative Joe Neguse (D-CO-2).

Peters has repeatedly fought to support Michigan’s Tribal communities. Last year, the Senate passed bipartisan, bicameral legislation authored by Peters to settle the longstanding land claims of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC). The bill authorizes federal funds through the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) that may be used by the KBIC for governmental services, economic development, natural resource protection, and land acquisition. Peters also reintroducedlegislation last year to grant federal recognition to the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians (GRB). In addition to granting federal recognition to the GRB, Peters’ Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians Restoration Act would make its members eligible for benefits and services provided by the federal government, including tuition, health care, and housing assistance.

###",1,2026-06-18T06:41:00Z,2026-06-18T06:43:25Z