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.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-hassan-welcome-enactment-their-bill-benefit-guard-reserve-students,"HYDE-SMITH, HASSAN WELCOME ENACTMENT OF THEIR BILL TO BENEFIT GUARD, RESERVE STUDENTS",2024-12-26,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"FY2025 Defense Policy Bill Includes Bipartisan ‘SERVE Act’ to Guarantee College Readmission for Guard, Reservists WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) today welcomed the enactment of major defense policy legislation that includes their bipartisan bill to ensure that students who serve in the National Guard and Reserve will be guaranteed readmission to their schools following a mobilization. The bipartisan Servicemember Enrollment and Readmission for Valuable Education (SERVE) Act (S.2076) was included in the FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act (HR.5009), which was signed into law on Monday. The SERVE Act amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to ensure that students called to serve in domestic, short-term National Guard and Reserve mobilizations can return to their studies. “Many Guard and Reserve mobilizations last fewer than 30 days, putting numerous students who have volunteered to serve our nation at risk of having their educational pursuits derailed,” Senator Hyde-Smith said. “I’m pleased the FY2025 NDAA includes an overdue fix to this problem.” “Students in the Reserves and the National Guard sacrifice to serve their communities and our country, and they shouldn’t have to jeopardize their spot in school because they were called to duty,” said Senator Hassan. “I am pleased that the latest national defense bill provides a measure that will ensure that student National Guard and Reserve members who are mobilized for short missions will have the security of knowing that their spot in school will be waiting for them.” The SERVE Act removes a “more than 30 days” stipulation in current law that only requires readmission for student servicemembers who are mobilized for more than 30 days. Under existing law, National Guard and Reserve members mobilized for fewer than 30 days are not universally entitled to be promptly readmitted. Hyde-Smith introduced the SERVE Act with Hassan in June 2023. U.S. Representatives Mike Ezell (R-Miss.) and Matt Cartwright (D-Pa.) were the lead sponsors of a House companion bill. The overall FY2025 NDAA establishes policies and sets funding guidelines for the FY2025 Defense Appropriations Bill that will actually allocate funds for Department of Defense activities. The overall bill also authorizes a 14.5 percent pay increase for junior enlisted troops, a 4.5 percent across-the-board pay raise for all other service members, and broadens access to child care for service members. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-issues-2024-christmas-message,HYDE-SMITH ISSUES 2024 CHRISTMAS MESSAGE,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"VIDEO: Senator Hyde-Smith Issues 2024 Christmas Message. WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today issued a 2024 Christmas message that encourages Mississippians to “celebrate love, joy, and peace, and reflect on the many blessings in our lives,” including the sacrifices of our servicemembers, first responders, and healthcare workers. “While the world deals with turmoil and conflict, this season calls us to love our neighbors, care for those in need, and approach life with a spirit of generosity. Our mission should be to serve those who need our help the most – through acts of kindness or simply offering a listening ear. We all have the power to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around us,” Hyde-Smith said. Hyde-Smith’s full Christmas message is available below: Merry Christmas, Mississippi! May we hold fast to the true spirit of this holiday season, taking time to celebrate love, joy, and peace, and reflect on the many blessings in our lives. As Christians, we honor the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His life and teachings inspire us to live gracefully, move with compassion, and love one another. As we celebrate, let us remember that this season is truly about peace – peace in our homes, in our communities, and in our hearts. While the world deals with turmoil and conflict, this season calls us to love our neighbors, care for those in need, and approach life with a spirit of generosity. Our mission should be to serve those who need our help the most – through acts of kindness or simply offering a listening ear. We all have the power to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around us. This season, I also thank our servicemembers, many of whom are far from home and separated from loved ones as they defend our freedoms. I share the same gratitude for our first responders and healthcare workers who continue to serve tirelessly. Their commitment to keeping us safe every single day is a gift to us all. My wish for all Mississippians is that your Christmas be filled with warmth, joy, and the love of those around you. May we all carry the message of peace and love with us throughout the new year. From my family to yours, Merry Christmas and happy holidays. May God continue to bless you with peace, happiness, and abundant blessings this holiday season and in the year ahead. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-efforts-secure-disaster-market-aid-forestall-farm-crisis,"HYDE-SMITH EFFORTS SECURE DISASTER, MARKET AID TO FORESTALL FARM CRISIS",2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"Hyde-Smith Votes to Provide Aid to Farmers Stressed by Low Prices, High Input Costs, Dire Financing Outlook WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) early Saturday morning voted for a final agreement that will provide $10 billion in market loss assistance for farmers in Mississippi and around the country who are threatened by economic stresses that threaten the strength of U.S. agriculture. Hyde-Smith, who serves on the Senate Agriculture Committee and Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, welcomed final approval of the aid following difficult negotiations to finalize a funding agreement to avoid a government shutdown and address natural and economic disasters. “The bottom line is that Congress is finally doing the right thing for America’s farmers and rural Americans. I expect this ad hoc market loss assistance will make a difference for farmers in Mississippi and elsewhere who would otherwise not be able to plant again next year,” Hyde-Smith said. “This assistance should serve as a lifeline while, with some determination and focus, we can finally enact a new Farm Bill that includes updated safety net programs for our farmers,” Hyde-Smith added. “I look forward to working with incoming Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins to ensure swift implementation of the disaster aid, because time is of the essence.” Hyde-Smith has for months been working with incoming Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman (R-Ark.), incoming Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Collins (R-Maine), and others to demand Congress act to approve ad hoc assistance to avoid an imminent economic disaster in rural America. As of early December, crop economic losses nationally exceeded $31 billion from all major commodities for 2024, including cotton, soybeans, corn, rice, and peanuts. Such losses in Mississippi have averaged $145.04 on more than 3.62 million acres, amounting to at least $525.8 million in losses this year. Hyde-Smith indicated Mississippi agricultural interests could also benefit from natural disaster relief in the legislation for farmers harmed by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and Federal Emergency Management Agency have certified that Mississippi experienced multiple types of natural disasters in this time period, including freezes, tornadoes, severe storms, flooding, high winds, and drought. Natural disaster funding in the bill includes $357 million for the Emergency Forest Restoration Program, $828 million for the Emergency Conservation Program, and $920 million for the Emergency Watershed Protection Program. In the months leading up to passage of the agriculture disaster funding agreement, Hyde-Smith met with Mississippi stakeholders, advocated for aid at Senate hearing, and delivered a floor speech explaining to her colleagues why Congress should provide both natural disaster and market loss assistance for farmers across the country or risk worsening a crisis that will cost taxpayers billions of dollars more in the future. Finally, Hyde-Smith sided with Boozman and House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) in signaling their intent to oppose any supplemental spending package that failed to provide meaningful economic assistance to farmers. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/senator-wicker-statement-on-continuing-resolution-s-damage-to-national-defense/bcd92899-cdda-47f5-85c7-82a9e9b6f969,Senator Wicker Statement on Continuing Resolution’s Damage to National Defense,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congress passed a continuing resolution (CR) to prevent a government shutdown and give lawmakers until March 2025 to reach an agreement on a long-term funding plan. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-votes-authorize-fed-support-water-projects-miss,HYDE-SMITH VOTES TO AUTHORIZE FED. SUPPORT FOR WATER PROJECTS IN MISS.,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"U.S. Senate Sends Water Resources Development Act to White House WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) late Wednesday voted for final passage of water infrastructure legislation that authorizes federal resources for improving waterways, flood control, ports, and other projects in Mississippi. The Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (S.4367 or WRDA) authorizes U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects throughout the country including navigational improvements, flood control, ecosystem restoration and clean water infrastructure. The bill, passed 97-1, is now cleared to be signed into law. “This legislation is important to the well-being of Mississippi and the entire nation. Army Corps of Engineers activities in Mississippi are directly linked to the well-being of our citizens and the state’s economy,” Hyde-Smith said. “I will remain committed to working to secure the funding to fulfill these authorized projects in Mississippi.” Hyde-Smith serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee and its Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, which funds the Army Corps of Engineers and programs authorized in WRDA. (Related: FY2024 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bill) Hyde-Smith supported the inclusion of provisions that enable the Army Corps of Engineers and other federal agencies to work with state and local officials to improve flood control, inland ports, wastewater infrastructure, conservation, and coastal resilience. In addition to multiple other projects across the state, Mississippi projects authorized in the bill that will now be signed into law are: City of Byram – $7.0 million environmental infrastructure authorization, including water and wastewater infrastructure (including stormwater management), drainage systems, and water quality enhancement. City of Madison – $7.0 million environmental infrastructure authorization, including water and wastewater infrastructure (including stormwater management), drainage systems, and water quality enhancement. City of Pearl – $7.0 million environmental infrastructure authorization, including water and wastewater infrastructure (including stormwater management), drainage systems, and water quality enhancement. Diamondhead – $7.0 million environmental infrastructure authorization, including water and wastewater infrastructure and drainage systems. Hancock County – $7.0 million environmental infrastructure authorization, including water and wastewater infrastructure (including stormwater management), drainage systems, and water quality enhancement. Mississippi State University – Authorization to conduct academic research, in coordination with the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) on technology to be used in water resources development infrastructure, analyses of the environment before and after a natural disaster, and geospatial data collection.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/senate-passes-hyde-smith-kaine-bill-protect-historic-american-battlefields-cleared-become-law,"SENATE PASSES HYDE-SMITH, KAINE BILL TO PROTECT HISTORIC AMERICAN BATTLEFIELDS, CLEARED TO BECOME LAW",2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"Bipartisan Measure Would Strengthen Successful NPS American Battlefield Protection Program WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) today successfully secured Senate passage of their American Battlefield Protection Program Enhancement Act, bipartisan legislation to improve the protection of America’s historic battlefields. The Senate passed the American Battlefield Protection Program Enhancement Act by unanimous consent as part of a lands package, clearing it to be signed into law. The legislation updates the American Battlefield Protection Program (ABPP), a successful National Park Service (NPS) program that promotes the preservation of significant historic battlefields and sites of armed conflict across the United States. ABPP has helped preserve more than 35,000 acres of historic land in 20 states, including Mississippi and Virginia. “Mississippi is home to some of our nation’s most significant and historic battlefields, and this legislation will make it easier to protect these hallowed grounds for future generations,” said Hyde-Smith, who serves on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks. “Senator Kaine and I recognized that the American Battlefield Protection Program could be more applied to protect the sites where so many pivotal moments of American history took place. I look forward to this legislation becoming law.” “From Yorktown to Appomattox to the Pentagon, you can’t map America’s military history without Virginia,” said Kaine. “I’m glad to have worked with Senator Hyde-Smith to secure the Senate passage of our legislation to bolster the American Battlefield Protection Program because preserving these sites is crucial to ensuring that Americans can visit them and learn about our country’s history. I urge President Biden to sign it.” The American Battlefield Protection Program Enhancement Act, which also passed in the House of Representatives, would: Permit nonprofits and tribes to apply directly for ABPP grants. Currently, only state and local governments are eligible to apply for ABPP funding. Ensure Battlefield Restoration Grant funding is available for all battlefields. ABPP administers four grant programs: Preservation Planning, Battlefield Land Acquisition, Battlefield Restoration, and Battlefield Interpretation. Current law only allows land preserved by a Battlefield Land Acquisition Grant to be eligible for a Restoration Grant, which provides funds to return Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War landscapes back to day-of battle conditions in order to enhance the visitor experience. This provision would remove this requirement and allow properties that were not acquired by a Battlefield Land Acquisition Grant to be eligible for Restoration Grant funding. This would mean the Vicksburg National Military Park, Corinth Battlefield Unit, and other state- and nonprofit-owned battlefield parks in Mississippi could be eligible for Restoration Grant funding. Clarify eligibility of Revolutionary War and War of 1812 Sites for Battlefield Land Acquisition Grants (BLAG). Current law allows battlefields and sites associated with the Revolutionary War and War of 1812 to be eligible for ABPP funding. This change would clarify that only battlefields are eligible. Create a process for expanding and updating historic battlefield boundaries. Currently, only lands identified in NPS maps are eligible for ABPP Battlefield Land Acquisition funding, and any updates to these maps must be approved by Congress. This means that if there is new archaeology or research that shows the historic extent of a battlefield is different from original NPS maps, the land cannot be preserved under ABPP. The bill creates a better process for expanding and updating the historic boundaries of battlefields to make it easier for certain sites to receive ABPP funding. U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner (D-Va.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), and Steve Daines (R-Mont.) cosponsored the Senate legislation. U.S. Representative Michael Guest (R-Miss.) cosponsored the House companion measure. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/mississippi-will-benefit-from-water-infrastructure-bill-becoming-law,Mississippi Will Benefit From Water Infrastructure Bill Becoming Law,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Legislation to improve Mississippi’s waterways, ports, river systems, dredging, and flood protection projects passed the U.S. Senate and is expected to become law. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., used his unique position on the Committee on Environment and Public Works to secure priorities for Mississippi in the legislation, the 2024 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). Senator Wicker released the following statement: “Water resources are essential to Mississippi,” Senator Wicker said. “This bill gives us additional tools to provide clean drinking water, wastewater, and flood control solutions for communities across the country. I will keep using my position on the Environment and Public Works Committee to deliver results for Mississippi’s communities.” Among other policies that are going to benefit Mississippi, WRDA will:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/senator-wicker-announces-pentagon-reform-and-innovation-proposal,Senator Wicker Announces Pentagon Reform and Innovation Proposal,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., released his proposal to change fundamentally the way the Department of Defense (DOD) does business by getting better weapons to our troops faster and maximizing taxpayer dollars. Senator Wicker’s plan, titled “Restoring Freedom’s Forge: American Innovation Unleashed,” outlines critical reforms that DOD and Congress could enact to pull defense budgeting and acquisition into the 21st century. The recommendations encompass five key subject areas: cutting red tape, unleashing innovation, increasing competition, enabling decisive action, and modernizing the budget process. The report is also accompanied by comprehensive legislation – S. 5618, the FORGED Act (Fostering Reform and Government Efficiency in Defense) – which puts many of the recommendations in the report into practice. This new proposal complements the report Senator Wicker issued earlier this year, “21st Century Peace Through Strength: A Generational Investment in the U.S. Military.” Among many other recommendations, “Peace Through Strength” principally calls for an immediate investment in the DOD to maintain deterrence against China. “The Department of Defense has been doing business the same way for far too long, which has heavily damaged both taxpayer confidence and American national security. We are entering a moment where major reform is possible. My legislation offers an opportunity to maximize the use of public dollars to buy second-to-none weapons systems, adopt new technology faster, and boost competition within the defense industry. I have started a national conversation about making a generational investment. Now we need to discuss how we can spend smarter,” Senator Wicker said. Read the full bill text of the FORGED Act here. Listed below are some of the key recommendations of the report and legislation in each major area. Read the report in full here. Repeal hundreds of unnecessary provisions from Title 10 to relieve officials of busy work: remove restrictions, delegate approvals, and create a five-year sunset on reporting requirements. Flip the contracting paradigm to require commercial procedures making DOD a better customer: strengthen rapid acquisition pathways, make commercial contracting the default, and relieve nontraditional defense contractors of numerous non-commercial requirements. Dramatically accelerate qualification and test procedures to improve multiple sourcing and competition: create a program for multiple sourcing, remove barriers to reverse engineering, and streamline qualification and test procedures. Reduce layers of bureaucracy by integrating authorities into empowered Program Executive Officers: upgrade program executive offers to integrate requirements, funding, and acquisition, and democratize joint decision-making processes. Restructure the budget and enable an agile funding process to transition technologies more rapidly into production: restructure the budget, consolidate budget line items, increase reprogramming authorities, and establish funding transparency. Senator Wicker is the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/senator-wicker-applauds-final-senate-passage-of-national-defense-authorization-act,Senator Wicker Applauds Final Senate Passage of National Defense Authorization Act,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), spoke on the U.S. Senate floor to celebrate the final U.S. Senate passage of the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). In his remarks, Senator Wicker praised the efforts of his many Senate colleagues and SASC staff to achieve a 64th straight year of the NDAA’s passage. Senator Wicker spoke about many of the positive qualities in this year’s bill which include boosting recruitment, modernizing major defense programs, and improving deterrence. Senator Wicker also noted the defense spending topline debate should carry through into next year. Read Senator Wicker’s remarks as delivered below or watch them here. Thank you very much, Mr. President. The Senate will soon consider the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025. The NDAA is among the most important bills Congress considers each year. It’s our primary way of fulfilling our most solemn obligation: our constitutional duty to provide for the common defense. Congress has come together to pass the NDAA each year for more than six decades – 63 years, to be precise. Today, we continue our streak of earned success. In our best moments, we've worked out the NDAA in an open and above-board process. Here, I must say that I am frustrated with the Majority Leader's decision to thwart that regular order this year. He did not bring the bill to the floor, thus denying Americans the opportunity to witness their elected representatives make decisions in the open on critical national security issues. Still, we continued in the spirit of honesty and collegiality. The numbers bear that out. The Armed Services Committee considered nearly 3,000 requests submitted by all Senators. We considered 618 amendments at markup, adopting 327 of those amendments. We then processed over 90 amendments during the informal conference process. These statistics tell the story of the hard work and professionalism that characterized the construction of this bill. Mr. President, we are currently experiencing the most dangerous national security moment since World War II. One need only scroll through the headlines summarizing this year's world events. Congress needed to respond in kind at every possible opportunity. We should be sending a signal of peace through strength, of strong deterrence. Accordingly, the Senate Armed Services Committee took an honest look at growing capability and aggression by our adversaries. We decided that this year was the time to change our course and move our military toward the generational defense investment it deserves. That vital committee action included an upgrade of $25 billion for our missile defense, shipbuilding, and counter-drone technology, among other modernization programs – $25 billion. This should have been part of the bill – today. Regrettably, we missed an opportunity to strengthen the President-elect's hand as he takes office in a precarious world situation. I hope and expect we will see bipartisan support for much needed investment early in 2025. And yet as I note what's missing from the bill, I'm happy to recognize the immense accomplishments that members have included in the the NDAA. We secured a significant 14.5 percent pay raise for our junior enlisted servicemembers as, well as a 4.5 percent increase for all other servicemembers. We made investments in junior ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) and recruitment capabilities, both of which will help solve the military's manpower crisis. This bill stops the Department of Defense (DOD) from paying for puberty blockers and hormone therapies for children. We blocked the teaching of critical race theory in military programming, and we froze diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) hiring at the DOD. In fact, we defunded DEI. The NDAA authorizes critical investments across the board. We accelerated ongoing nuclear deterrence efforts. We moved forward in shipbuilding programs for our destroyers and submarines. Finally, we learned from the wars going on around us today. Using real world experience, we found ways to strengthen security assistance for frontline allies in the Pacific, the Middle East, and in Europe. So, let me say again, this is a good bill. It's a piece of legislation in which I take pride. As always, I'm grateful to have the opportunity to advance our national security. And as I speak of gratitude, I want to extend special thanks to my friend, Chairman Jack Reed. I also want to thank his team on the Armed Services Committee, ably led by Staff Director Liz King. I thank my Republican and Democratic colleagues on the committee as well. Each made important contributions to the bill. This is especially true of our subcommittee chairs and ranking members, and I will recognize those on my side of the aisle: Senator Tom Cotton, ranking member of Airland. Senator Deb Fischer, ranking member of Strategic Forces. Senator Mike Rounds, ranking member of Cybersecurity. Senator Joni Ernst, ranking member of Emerging threats and Capabilities. Senator Rick Scott, ranking member of Personnel. Senator Kevin Cramer, ranking member of Seapower. And Senator Dan Sullivan, ranking member of Readiness. I also want to thank my Armed Services Committee staff. These patriotic individuals burned the midnight oil for months, literally. They delivered a product that this body can be proud of – one that does much to advance American interests. The American people would be astounded to see how hard and how long these staff members work. And I can hardly mention my staff without thanking my intrepid staff director, John Keast. John and his superb team know how to get the job done. And I want to recognize John Keast and his staff by name. They are: Rick Berger, Brendan Gavin, James Mazol, Greg Lilly, Adam Barker, Zach Barnett, Kristina Belcourt, Jack Beyrer, Cody Emerson, Isaac Jalkanen, Kevin Kim, Eric Lofgren, Katie Magnus, Jonathan Moore, Sean O’Keefe, Brad Patout, Katie Romaine, Eric Trager, Adam Trull, and Olivia Trusty. This year's NDAA will further the cause of our national defense, but it cannot do all that we need. This will be the final vote on this bill. It has passed the House, we have invoked cloture, and this vote will send this bill to the President. Let this piece of legislation be an exhortation that Congress can no longer leave the job of national defense half-finished. We have no choice but to move ahead – and to move ahead early next year – with a generational investment in our military.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/senator-wicker-s-bill-to-modernize-vicksburg-military-park-advances,Senator Wicker’s Bill to Modernize Vicksburg Military Park Advances,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Legislation sponsored by U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., to upgrade the Vicksburg Military Park, passed the U.S. Senate. Vicksburg Military Park preserves the site of the Battle of Vicksburg, which is known for being a key turning point in the Civil War. The battlefield is the most visited historical attraction in Mississippi with more than half a million annual visitors. The park includes over 1,300 monuments and markers, 20 miles of original and reconstructed trenches, the Vicksburg National Cemetery, and more. However, the park has outdated structures, such as the visitor center, that were built nearly seventy years ago. The bill, Vicksburg National Military Park Boundary Modification Act, would transfer the necessary land from the National Park Service to the State of Mississippi to build a new state-of-the-art interactive interpretive center on the park’s grounds. Senator Wicker released the following statement:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-slams-latest-biden-harris-salvo-against-american-energy,HYDE-SMITH SLAMS LATEST BIDEN-HARRIS SALVO AGAINST AMERICAN ENERGY,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"Miss. Senator Calls for Restoration of Domestic Energy Security After Release of LNG Report WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today criticized the latest salvo by the outgoing Biden-Harris administration against U.S. energy production, a skewed study on American liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. The U.S. Department of Energy study released Tuesday was conducted as part of the administration’s efforts to pause or stop the export of LNG, much of which is shipped through the Gulf of Mexico. Hyde-Smith has vehemently opposed this policy as a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. “The Biden administration’s reckless energy policies compromise our national security, drive up costs for hardworking Americans, and fuel global emissions. Instead of championing all American energy, which is cleaner and safer than the foreign imports we rely on, this administration continues to undermine our domestic industry and disregard the welfare of American families,” Hyde-Smith said. “The release of this LNG export study is just the latest example of their misguided energy agenda that puts our national security at risk while making energy unaffordable across the nation. It’s time for this destructive trend to end. I am committed to once again restoring American energy security and independence under President Trump’s leadership,” she said. In July, Hyde-Smith supported committee passage of the Energy Permitting Reform Act of 2025 (S.4753), a bill which would have mandated increased offshore oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico, permanently ended the Biden administration’s so-called pause on LNG exports, and expedite judicial reviews of federal energy and mineral project authorizations. Efforts to reach a compromise to clear this legislation before the end of the 118th Congress collapsed earlier this week.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-votes-defense-policy-bill-1,HYDE-SMITH VOTES FOR DEFENSE POLICY BILL,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today supported final Senate passage of a massive defense policy bill that includes legislation she introduced to ensure that students, who serve in the National Guard and Reserve, will be guaranteed readmission to their schools following a deployment. The overall FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act (HR.5009) establishes policies and sets funding guidelines for the FY2025 Defense Appropriations Bill that will actually allocate funds for Department of Defense (DOD) activities. The bill now goes to the White House to be signed into law. “The NDAA is crucial because it adjusts policy and funding recommendations to meet current and future requirements to strengthen our national security. This measure is far from perfect given the current administration and congressional makeup, but it does include key policy changes to support servicemembers and their families while ending misguided ‘woke’ policies,” said Hyde-Smith, who serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee. Other notable provisions in the FY2025 NDAA include: Authorizes a 14.5 percent pay increase for junior enlisted troops and increased access to child care for service members, in addition to a 4.5 percent across-the-board pay raise for all other service members Eliminates funding for DEI programs and the Countering Extremism Working Group Prohibits TRICARE, the military healthcare provider, from covering transgender services for the minor dependents of service members Reforms DOD procurement policies and improves oversight Authorizes expanded shipbuilding and aircraft capabilities Extends support for Israel while expanding “tough-on-China” policies",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/congress-annual-defense-bill-one-step-closer-to-law-with-senator-wicker-priorities-included,Congress’ Annual Defense Bill One Step Closer to Law With Senator Wicker Priorities Included,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate just passed Congress’ annual defense bill, the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The legislation includes numerous Mississippi priorities. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., serves as the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), affording him a unique position to advocate for Mississippi’s national defense capabilities. It is expected that Senator Wicker’s colleagues will elect him SASC chairman in early January 2025. Senator Wicker released the following statement: “The wins in this bill demonstrate clearly that Mississippi’s military bases and defense industry are important contributors to national security. American service members across the world are safer because of the national security work done by Mississippians: whether it be through ships built at our shipyards, weapons, equipment, and ammunition from our manufacturers, or research conducted at our universities,” Senator Wicker said. When the NDAA bill text was released, Senator Wicker also said: “However, the failure to include a topline increase is a tremendous loss for our national defense…I remain resolved to continue the national conversation I have started about our defense needs, and I will amplify this discussion should I become Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. We need to make a generational investment to deter the Axis of Aggressors. I will not cease work with my Congressional colleagues, the Trump administration, and others until we achieve it.” Among many of Senator Wicker’s priorities, a few key elements of the bill could ensure Mississippi receives additional investments in artificial intelligence, unmanned weapons systems, special operations activities, naval fleet construction, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and national security research. The legislation contains several of Senator Wicker’s top national defense priorities: Authorizes funding to support a 14.5 percent pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers (E1-E4) and a 4.5 percent pay raise for all other military members. Increases the number of required Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) units nationwide; expands eligibility criteria for schools to host JROTC. Requires the Department of Defense (DOD) to adhere to the industry standard of investing four percent of a facility's plant replacement value into annual sustainment by 2030, which will drastically increase facility sustainment funding to shrink the $180 billion repair backlog. Prohibits DOD from paying for puberty-blockers and other drugs that could sterilize children for the purposes of treating gender dysphoria. Freezes hiring at DOD for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work for one year. Prohibits DOD personnel from promoting critical race theory (CRT), or training CRT. Defunds $50+ million for DOD DEI programming to put toward counter-narcotics. Authorizes the Trump administration with $300 million in security assistance funds to support Taiwan’s defense reform and civil resilience efforts. Permanently authorizes the Office of Strategic Capital to make loans to innovative defense companies and drastically improves DOD economic warfare coordination. Creates a counter unmanned aerial systems (CUAS) task force, CUAS exercises, and sets up reporting requirements to confront UAS military base overflight. Establishes a single senior Pentagon official for nuclear deterrence policies and programs. Authorizes $322 million for the nuclear sea-launched cruise missile and provides additional flexibility to expedite development of the weapon. Kills the Navy’s bad idea to force a $750 million landing ship on the Marine Corps, instead requiring a $250 million ship. Cuts F-35 funding and holds defense contractors accountable for F-35 delays, requiring a full-scale remediation plan for future development and deliveries. Authorizes $47.5 million for continued U.S.-Israel collaborative research on emerging technologies and adds $30 million for U.S.-Israel anti-tunneling program. Halts the retirement of the capable F-15E fleet, directly involved in defense of Israel. Maintains crucial advanced fighter capacity by keeping the F-15 and F-22 fleets whole. Procures a 3rd Arleigh Burke-class destroyer and a 2nd Virginia-class attack sub in FY25. Accelerates the delivery of Landing Ship Medium for the Marine Corps. Drastically improves Navy focus on unmanned surface and subsurface vessels. Stops plans to turn DOD into the “climate-change” enforcer, refocusing efforts on building tactical capabilities and countering China. The legislation also included many provisions beneficial to Mississippi: North Mississippi $10,000,000 to enable proof-of-concept work for an autonomous AI data fusion C2 capability for uncrewed systems, which could be completed in Starkville. $7,000,000 to enable testing and evaluation of a maneuverable 155mm projectile with a range of 100-150km, which would see approximately half of requested funds spent on fabrication of rounds in Tupelo. $10,000,000 to sustain and upgrade the Lakota helicopters, which are manufactured in Columbus. $1,000,000 to kick start production of ROC-X loitering munitions by Stark Aerospace, which will be manufactured in Columbus. $1,000,000 to help develop methods for reducing platform noise in Unmanned Underwater Vehicles, which will be completed in Tupelo. $3,000,000 to integrate and assemble the Distributed Gain 300kw Laser Weapon System, which will support work in Tupelo. $1,000,000 to support enhanced sensing capabilities in shallow-water environments, which supports work in Tupelo. Central Mississippi $10,000,000 to procure 16 additional Type 1 All Terrain cranes in order to prevent a break in production, which supports 39 jobs in Louisville and creates 10 additional jobs. $2,000,000 to support the use of gasification technology to take agricultural byproducts and plastic waste and convert to electricity in mobile, distributable sites, which would provide opportunities and training to Jackson State University, Alcorn State University, and Tougaloo College students in conjunction with the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) in Vicksburg. $15,000,000 to support a program that creates unclassified, high-resolution three-dimensional terrain data required by US Combatant Commands, which would support work in Ridgeland and Long Beach. $1,000,000 to support the extension and enhancement of the existing ERDC modeling and simulation physics-based environment to facilitate future uses of defense weapon systems. $2,500,000 to develop engineered repair materials for paved and unpaved roadways in different climates, which would be supported in Richland and researched in Vicksburg. $6,700,000 to accelerate the planning and design of a corrosion control hangar at Key Field in Meridian for the 186th Air Refueling Wing. $1,000,000 to update the fuel hydrant system at Key Field in Meridian for the 186th Air Refueling Wing. $5,600,000 to support planning and design of a Maintenance Hangar at Key Field for the 186th Air Refueling Wing. $1,900,000 to support the planning and design of a base supply warehouse at Key Field for the 186th Air Refueling Wing. Gulf Coast $25,000,000 to complete construction of a new Air Traffic Control Tower at Keesler Air Force Base, which is used by the 403rd Weather Reconnaissance Wing. $60,000,000 to provide economic adjustments to support the Navajo class towing, salvage, and rescue ships, many of which are built in Pascagoula. $10,000,000 for the development of low-cost, rapidly deployable maritime sensors with supportive report language, which will be spent in Gulfport. This funding could support a partnership between Mississippi’s defense industry and the University of Southern Mississippi. $10,000,000 to support new coating for submarine hulls, which would maintain four jobs and create four new jobs in Gulfport. If successful, full-scale production could lead to hundreds of jobs. $9,000,000 to allow for the purchase of additional autonomous dual surface and underwater vehicles for Navy experimentation and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions, supporting work in Gulfport. The bill also included language to designate an appropriate program sponsor to support future acquisition of these vessels. $6,000,000 to establish an operational center providing real-time cyber operation security to small businesses, which would be located in Biloxi. $7,000,000 to address cost hike and workforce reduction concerns caused by the cuts in the procurement rate of CCA’s, which could support work in Gulfport. $8,000,000 to sustain the High Performance Computing Modernization Program’s efforts, personnel, and facilities, supporting defense applications across various scientific disciplines, enhancing weapons system development, which affects 21 employees in Mississippi. $2,000,000 for advanced composite materials for wet submarines, which supports ongoing work in Gulfport.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/senator-wicker-meets-with-epa-administrator-nominee-former-representative-lee-zeldin,"Senator Wicker Meets with EPA Administrator Nominee, Former Representative Lee Zeldin",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW), met with President-elect Trump’s nominee to be the next Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator, Former Representative Lee Zeldin. “Former Representative Lee Zeldin is a great choice for this position. He will bring important change to the EPA while also playing a pivotal role in reversing harmful Biden administration rulemaking, addressing federal permitting issues at the agency, and protecting our nation’s environment,” Senator Wicker said. “I look forward to working with him through my position on the EPW Committee.” Former Representative Lee Zeldin is a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. He served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2015 to 2023, where he sat on the Committee on Foreign Affairs and Committee on Financial Services.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/senator-wicker-meets-with-fbi-director-nominee-kash-patel,"Senator Wicker Meets with FBI Director Nominee, Kash Patel",2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., met with President-elect Trump’s nominee to be the next director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Kash Patel. “I had a great meeting with Kash Patel. His experience working in different government agencies provides him with a unique opportunity to restore trust in the bureau,” Senator Wicker said. “I look forward to seeing him use that experience to keep America safe.” Kash Patel is a lawyer and former federal prosecutor at the U.S. Department of Justice. He served as Chief of Staff to U.S. Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller and as senior advisor to the acting Director of National Intelligence during President Trump’s first term in office.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/press-reports-indicate-that-border-wall-materials-are-again-being-auctioned-senator-wicker-wants-answers,"Press Reports Indicate That Border Wall Materials Are Again Being Auctioned, Senator Wicker Wants Answers",2024-12-13,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Press reports emerged Thursday indicating that the Biden administration is hauling off unused border panels in Nogales, Tucson, and Three Points border zones, potentially in direct contravention of Senator Roger Wicker’s, R-Miss., FINISH IT Act which became law last year in the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act. Specifically, the FINISH IT Act forced the Department of Defense (DoD) to allow millions of dollars of unused border wall panels already owned by the U.S. government to be used to extend the wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. Senator Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement: “The Biden-Harris administration has been so hostile to border security that it threw millions of dollars at the storage of border wall materials, rather than using them to secure the border. Worse, after Senate Armed Services Republicans exposed the wasteful costs for this thoughtless program, we discovered these materials were auctioned off at massive discounts online,” Senator Wicker said. “My bill required much of the claimed remaining materials to secure the southern border. However, rather than leaving unclaimed materials for the Trump administration to use, it appears that the Biden administration has continued to auction off the remaining materials at a tremendous fiscal loss. This is an outrageous waste of taxpayer money, and now more will have to be spent to acquire new materials for completing the wall and finally securing our border, as President Trump has vowed to do.” The FINISH IT Act followed an investigation by Senate Armed Services Committee Republicans that revealed the DoD is spending $47 million per year, or $130,000 per day, to store the panels at various locations across the Southwest. The legislation requires the federal government to deploy the materials or transfer them to state governments who will use them for wall construction. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/senate-approves-hyde-smith-resolution-honoring-patrick-gottsch-advocate-rural-america,"SENATE APPROVES HYDE-SMITH RESOLUTION HONORING PATRICK GOTTSCH, ADVOCATE FOR RURAL AMERICA",2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"Hyde-Smith Measure Pays Tribute to Gottsch, the RFD-TV Founder Who Passed Away This Year WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today secured Senate passage of her resolution honoring the life and legacy of Patrick Gottsch, the founder of radio and television outlets that promoted the values of rural America and agricultural issues. Hyde-Smith used a rare live unanimous consent request to gain approval of S.Res.733, which the Senator introduced in June following Gottsch’s passing on May 18, 2024. “This resolution honors the life and legacy of my dear friend Patrick Gottsch. Patrick was a strong friend and ally of Rural America, and it is only appropriate that the Senate commemorate his life,” Hyde-Smith said. “Along with so many other rural Americans, I miss Patrick every day. It is an honor to remember Patrick by advocating for and promoting the rural way of life in the Senate.” S.Res.733 was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), and John Barrasso (R-Wyo.). In a June floor speech, Hyde-Smith praised Gottsch for giving “rural America a voice."" ""In an increasingly urbanized world, Patrick reminded us of the value of rural America. He advocated for the 2 percent of Americans who feed the other 98 percent,” Hyde-Smith said. The following is the text of S.Res.733: RESOLUTION Honoring the life and legacy of Patrick Gottsch. Whereas Patrick Gene Gottsch was born on June 3, 1953, in Elkhorn, Nebraska; Whereas Mr. Gottsch was raised on his family’s farm and cattle operation, which instilled in him the values of rural America; Whereas Mr. Gottsch obtained a wide array of career experiences that enabled him to be a trailblazer in the rural and agricultural programming space; Whereas Mr. Gottsch worked as a commodity broker on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, in the home satellite dish industry, and as Director of Sales for the Superior Livestock Auction in the Fort Worth Stockyards; Whereas Mr. Gottsch launched Rural Free Delivery Television (RFD–TV) in 2002; Whereas Mr. Gottsch was the founder and president of Rural Media Group, Inc., which, in addition to RFD–TV, grew to consist of RFD–TV The Magazine, RFD HD, RURAL TV, RURAL RADIO, and The Cowboy Channel; Whereas millions of individuals in the United States have benefitted from Mr. Gottsch’s innovative approach to educating the populace on rural and agricultural issues through the use of television and other mediums; and Whereas Mr. Gottsch’s work to represent farmers, ranchers, and rural America through television was unprecedented and has left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions of individuals in the United States: Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the Senate— (1) honors the life and legacy of Patrick Gottsch, particularly the devotion of Mr. Gottsch— (A) to rural America; (B) to espousing the values of rural America through agricultural and rural programming; and (C) to advocating for a greater understanding of the importance of rural America to the economy, culture, and progress of the nation; (2) extends its gratitude to Mr. Gottsch for a life well-lived, and will continue to remember his legacy; and (3) respectfully requests that the Secretary of the Senate transmit an enrolled copy of this resolution to the family of Mr. Gottsch. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/senators-wicker-schatz-lead-group-of-100-lawmakers-in-calling-for-extension-of-telehealth-expansion,"Senators Wicker, Schatz Lead Group of 100 Lawmakers in Calling for Extension of Telehealth Expansion",2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Brian Schatz, D-Hawai‘i, led a bipartisan and bicameral group of 100 lawmakers in calling for the extension of expanded Medicare coverage of telehealth services to be included in a year-end appropriations package. Provisions from the Wicker-Schatz legislation, the CONNECT for Health Act, were included in previous COVID-19 relief legislation to allow Medicare beneficiaries in all areas of the country, and in their homes, to utilize telehealth services, and to expand the types of health care providers eligible to provide telehealth. Medicare beneficiaries have come to rely on expanded access, which have also been proven beneficial to patients. But these provisions will expire at the end of the year, unless congressional leaders act to extend those measures or make them permanent. The full text of the letter can be found below and is available here. Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Minority Leader McConnell, Speaker Johnson, and Minority Leader Jeffries: Expanded Medicare coverage for telehealth services is set to expire on December 31, 2024. As you work to advance a year-end appropriations package, we urge you to extend coverage as much as possible so that all Medicare beneficiaries retain access to these services. Telehealth plays a critical role in health care delivery – a fact that Congress has recognized by expanding coverage during and after the COVID-19 public health emergency. Most recently, in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Congress enacted a two-year extension of Medicare telehealth services coverage. Committees of jurisdiction in the House of Representatives have recently recognized the need to protect patients’ access to telehealth services by voting to advance an additional two-year extension on a bipartisan, unanimous basis. We ask you to prioritize provisions that remove geographic restrictions on telehealth services and permit the home and other clinically appropriate settings as originating sites. Congress should also expand the authority for practitioners eligible to furnish telehealth services. Rural and underserved communities rely on telehealth services, and Congress should recognize federally qualified health centers and rural health clinics as telehealth distant site providers. Additionally, Congress should allow the use of telehealth in the recertification of hospice care. Finally, telehealth has transformed mental and behavioral health care, now accounting for 40 percent of telehealth services provided under the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. Therefore, Congress should permanently repeal the six-month in-person visit requirement for telemental health services. It should also reject similar policies that create barriers to care.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-britt-turn-focus-coast-guard-joint-force-work-combat-drug-human-trafficking-southern,"HYDE-SMITH, BRITT TURN FOCUS ON COAST GUARD & JOINT FORCE WORK TO COMBAT DRUG, HUMAN TRAFFICKING ON SOUTHERN MARITIME BORDER",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"The Senators, Both Homeland Security Appropriators, Recently Visited Key West with USCG Commandant PHOTO: Senator Hyde-Smith, Senator Britt, and USCG Commandant Fagan with members of the USCG Sector Key West. (Photo Courtesy of U.S. Coast Guard) WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) and Katie Britt (R-Ala.) recently traveled to the U.S Coast Guard (USCG) Sector Key West and the headquarters of the Joint Interagency Task Force South (JIATF-S) to learn more about the crucial role of agencies in combatting illicit narcotics, illegal migration, and human trafficking. Hyde-Smith and Britt serve on the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, with Britt serving as ranking member of the panel that funds the USCG. The lawmakers were joined by Admiral Linda Fagan, the 27th Commandant of the Coast Guard. “Most Americans are eager to see a much-needed increased focus on border security. As we prepare for the new Congress, I look forward to working with Coast Guard leadership and the new administration to reinforce our commitment to being a nation of laws, with national security as a top priority.” Senator Hyde-Smith said. “I appreciated the opportunity to visit with our brave service men and women as they uphold our laws and save lives.” “The U.S. Coast Guard’s commitment to protecting our maritime borders is nothing short of heroic, and I appreciated the opportunity to meet with many of the courageous Americans who patrol our seas and defend our shores. I will continue to make it a top priority in the new Congress to ensure the U.S. Coast Guard has the resources and support needed to keep our homeland safe and to strengthen our national security,” said Senator Britt. “I am grateful for Senator Hyde-Smith’s continued leadership and partnership as we work to advance solutions to combat drug and human trafficking.” During their official visit to Florida, Hyde-Smith and Britt learned about the increasing challenges faced by the USCG Sector Key West and JIATF-S, including: Maritime smuggling accounts for a significant number of attempted crossings, with the joint task force interdicting an increasing number of individuals in recent years. Maritime border attempts and interdictions increased dramatically under the current administration from around 3,000 in FY2021 to more than 12,000 in both FY2022 and FY2023. The national security threat posed by vessels departing from nations experiencing significant social upheaval is significant and provides potential malign actors with a route that can be very difficult to monitor. The humanitarian crisis generated by maritime migration is also challenging, as many illegal migrants utilize nearly derelict vessels to attempt open-ocean travel, often requiring U.S. Coast Guard rescue in conjunction with interdiction. Transnational criminal organizations utilize maritime routes to transport narcotics at sea in an effort to evade law enforcement. JIATF-S is a driving force to combat the impacts of illicit narcotics at home and abroad by coordinating U.S. agencies alongside partner nations to combat these threats to regional stability. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-demands-action-help-farmers-avert-repeat-80s-era-farm-crisis,"HYDE-SMITH DEMANDS ACTION TO HELP FARMERS, AVERT REPEAT OF 80s-ERA FARM CRISIS",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"Hyde-Smith Warns Not Helping Farmers with Both Disaster & Market Assistance Will Cost Taxpayers, Country Billions More in the Future VIDEO CLIP: Senator Hyde-Smith Outlines Dire Farm Country Situation, Risks of Inaction. FULL SPEECH VIDEO: Senator Hyde-Smith Encourages Senate and House Negotiators to Reach Agreement that Includes Market Assistance for Farmers. WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today demanded congressional negotiators to agree to provide both natural disaster and market loss assistance for farmers across the country or risk worsening a crisis that will cost taxpayers billions of dollars more in the future. Efforts by Hyde-Smith and others to secure economic assistance to counter impending market disaster in rural America has received some pushback as work continues on Capitol Hill to reach an agreement on year-end legislation to avoid a government shutdown, replenish emergency response funds, and extend the 2018 farm bill. “Our farm economy is headed in a dark and scary direction. I hope all of my colleagues here in the Senate and on the other side of the Capitol recognize that,” Hyde-Smith said in a floor speech. “It is time for Congress to deliver meaningful assistance to our agricultural producers. They have been devastated by unprecedented market conditions and natural disasters over the last two years, and they need help recovering from both – not one or the other.” Hyde-Smith, who serves on the Senate Agriculture Committee and Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, continued to argue that market-related disasters deserve federal attention as much as damages caused by recent natural disasters. “The economic landscape for farmers is looking more like the farm crisis of the 1980s every day. That’s pretty scary. There’s not a farm crisis looming – it’s already underway – but it’s not too late to keep it from snowballing out of control if Congress acts,” Hyde-Smith said. “What caused the crisis? Inflation, high interest rates and production costs, low farm income, depressed crop prices, declining exports, and inadequate federal price support policy.” Mississippi producers expect losses ranging from $65 to more than $300 per acre for every covered commodity for the 2024 crop year, while market losses by producers nationally are estimated to be $31 billion this crop year. These losses are compounded by a U.S. trade deficit expected to reach a record $45 billion in FY2025. Hyde-Smith said Farm Bureau organizations in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, as well as major agricultural organizations have sent letters to Congress seeking market loss assistance to benefit troubled producers nationwide in addition to natural disaster assistance. “If Congress fails to recognize the importance of providing market loss help and only focuses on natural disaster, my fear is that: 1) Farmers and farm groups across the country are going to be very angry that Congress decided to address only half the problem while ignoring every farmer across the country impacted by record input costs and depressed prices; and 2) we’re going to have a farm crisis in this country worse than the 1980s crisis,” Hyde-Smith stressed. “I will leave my colleagues with this question: Are we going to learn from lessons of the past and take appropriate action? Or, take the path of least resistance today, and be required to pay hundreds of billions on the back end, after it is too late?” Hyde-Smith asked. Read Hyde-Smith’s speech, as prepared for delivery, here or below: Madam President, our farm economy is headed in a dark and scary direction. I hope all of my colleagues here in the Senate and on the other side of the Capitol recognize that. It is time for Congress to deliver meaningful assistance to our agricultural producers. They have been devastated by unprecedented market conditions and natural disasters over the last two years, and they need help recovering from both – not one or the other. I rise today to urge my colleagues to take action and to support those who support you. The economic landscape for farmers is looking more like the farm crisis of the 1980s every day. That’s pretty scary. There’s not a farm crisis looming – it’s already underway – but it’s not too late to keep it from snowballing out of control if Congress acts. It was one of the worst economic disasters since the great depression, decimated rural America, and took years for many communities to recover from – some never did. What caused the crisis? Inflation, high interest rates and production costs, low farm income, depressed crop prices, declining exports, and inadequate federal price support policy. Does that sound familiar? U.S. farm income has dropped $41 billion over the last two years – the worst decline we’ve ever seen. Our trade deficit is expected to reach a record high of $45.5 billion for fiscal year 2025. Input costs and interest rates are close to an all-time high. Commodity prices are low, and the federal farm safety net is not providing any support because the Price Loss Coverage program reference prices haven’t been updated since the 2014 Farm Bill. These are unprecedented market conditions. Believe me, I know. To break this down in greater detail, market losses suffered by producers for the 2024 crop year alone are estimated at $31 billion – $31 BILLION, with a B! Madam President, I have a breakdown of the market losses by state and commodity, that I ask be submitted into the Record. [Document] Every single state in the U.S. suffered market losses this crop year. The Office of Management and Budget recently submitted a disaster supplemental request to Congress asking for $21 billion in ad hoc support for producers impacted by natural disasters in 2023 and/or 2024. And I certainly support that, because many producers across the country deserve it. However, OMB’s request failed to mention anything pertaining to market losses. How can we ignore $31 billion in market losses this year alone and expect to keep U.S. agriculture afloat? We shouldn’t, and we can’t. Farmers need market loss assistance too. We need an additional $15 billion for market losses. The House and Senate Agriculture Committees have been working on a proposal that would cover market losses, on top of natural disaster losses. It’s estimated to cost about $15 billion. Congress should support that – whether through supplemental appropriations or a farm bill extension – in addition to what has been proposed for natural disasters. Producers should be eligible for both. State Farm Bureaus from all 50 states have sent letters to Congress asking for both market and disaster assistance – both, not one or the other. Further, every major agricultural organization across the country — American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Barley Growers Association, National Cotton Council, National Corn Growers Association, National Sorghum Producers, National Sunflower Association, U.S. Canola Association, U.S. Peanut Federation, USA Dry Pea & Lentil Council, USA Rice, and Western Peanut Growers Association— have endorsed marker legislation introduced in the House focused on market losses. If Congress fails to recognize the importance of providing market loss help and only focuses on natural disaster, my fear is that: 1) Farmers and farm groups across the country are going to be very angry that Congress decided to address only half the problem while ignoring every farmer across the country impacted by record input costs and depressed prices; and 2) we’re going to have a farm crisis in this country worse than the 1980s crisis. I will leave my colleagues with this question: Are we going to learn from lessons of the past and take appropriate action? Or, take the path of least resistance today, and be required to pay hundreds of billions on the back end, after it is too late? Madam President, I yield the floor. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/senator-wicker-meets-with-secretary-of-energy-nominee-chris-wright,"Senator Wicker Meets With Secretary of Energy Nominee, Chris Wright",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today met with President-elect Trump’s nominee to be the next Secretary of Energy, Chris Wright. “I had a great meeting with Chris Wright, and I believe our energy and national security goals are closely aligned. He is a proven innovator and successful businessman that will bring a new perspective to the Department of Energy,” Senator Wicker said. “I am confident that he will be a champion for domestic energy producers, prioritize American-made energy, and ensure the National Nuclear Security Administration has the resources and support needed to modernize our nation’s nuclear deterrent.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/senator-wicker-meets-with-va-secretary-nominee-former-representative-doug-collins,"Senator Wicker Meets With VA Secretary Nominee, Former Representative Doug Collins",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., met with President-elect Trump’s nominee to be the next secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Former Representative Doug Collins. “Mismanagement of the VA has prevented the department from adequately caring for our veterans. Former Representative Collins knows first-hand how important the VA’s work can be and is the right person to get them back on track,” Senator Wicker said. “I am confident that he will be a strong advocate for our veterans and their families.” Former Representative Doug Collins served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2013 to 2021. He is currently a colonel in the Air Force Reserve.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/senator-wicker-statement-on-meeting-with-howard-lutnick,Senator Wicker Statement on Meeting With Howard Lutnick,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., a senior member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, met with President-elect Trump’s Secretary of Commerce nominee, Howard Lutnick. “Howard Lutnick is a successful businessman who will bring positive change to the Department of Commerce. During our meeting, we discussed the historic economic investments that Mississippi is experiencing and how our state could build upon these efforts working together with the Trump administration,” Senator Wicker said. “I believe he will do a great job driving economic development and growth in our country, and I look forward to working with him through my position on the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/senator-wicker-statement-on-ndaa-topline-negotiations/4e82a979-044a-4ad5-92c0-92edbed64c1f,Senator Wicker Statement on NDAA Topline Negotiations,2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – This weekend, the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) version prepared for final passage in the House and Senate was released. The bill does not include U.S. Senator Roger Wicker’s, R-Miss., proposed and Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC)-passed measure to increase the topline of the defense budget by more than $25 billion. Senator Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the SASC, released the following statement:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-remembers-late-jeanne-luckey-senate-tribute,HYDE-SMITH REMEMBERS THE LATE JEANNE LUCKEY IN SENATE TRIBUTE,2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"VIDEO: Senator Hyde-Smith Pays Tribute to the Late Jeanne Luckey of the Mississippi Gulf Coast WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) on Wednesday delivered a tribute to the late Jeanne Luckey of Biloxi in a speech to the U.S. Senate. Luckey, who passed away on Nov. 7, 2024, was a leader on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, statewide, and nationally. Hyde-Smith’s remarks, which also appear in the Congressional Record, are available below: Madam President, I rise today with a deep sense of respect, admiration, and sadness to honor the remarkable life of Jeanne Luckey. Her legacy of service, strength, and compassion will leave a lasting impact on Mississippi, our nation, and beyond. A proud daughter of Biloxi, Mississippi, Jeanne was a woman of extraordinary character – dedicated to her family, her community, and her country. She was a tireless leader and key figure in Mississippi’s Republican Party, serving in the roles such as president of the Mississippi Federation of Republican Women, co-chair of the state Republican Party, and Republican National Committeewoman. Her voice and influence over the decades shaped the party at the state and national levels, and her work touched the lives of countless individuals across our state. She faced extraordinary challenges with unmatched grace. Even after a car accident left her in a wheelchair just days after Hurricane Katrina reshaped the coast of Mississippi, Jeanne didn’t stop. She kept working. She continued her work with an unwavering commitment to the values she held dear, always finding a way to move forward. Jeanne’s influence went far beyond politics. Jeanne cared deeply about education and the people of Mississippi. As a member of the Board of Trustees for the Institutions of Higher Learning, she worked tirelessly to make Mississippi’s universities stronger and more inclusive, especially for those with disabilities. Always focused on serving others, her contributions will be felt for generations. What truly defined Jeanne was her strength of character. She was a woman who made others better. Her husband, Alwyn, said it best: “She made me a better person than I otherwise would have been.” Those of us who had the privilege of knowing her can attest to that. Her wisdom, her kindness, and her ability to bring people together left a permanent mark on everyone she met. Jeanne leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched. My heart goes out to her husband Alwyn, their two daughters, Laurel and Taylor, and her grandchildren, Cornelius and Toxie Ray. Mississippi has lost an amazing woman and a true leader. But Jeanne's spirit, her passion for life, and her commitment to making our state and country a better place will endure. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/miss-lawmakers-sign-bicameral-letter-targeting-federal-funding-awarded-abortion-providers,MISS. LAWMAKERS SIGN BICAMERAL LETTER TARGETING FEDERAL FUNDING AWARDED TO ABORTION PROVIDERS,2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"Hyde-Smith, Guest & Ezell Seek Updated GAO Investigation Covering 2022-2024 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Pro-Life Caucus Chair Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) and U.S. Representatives Michael Guest (R-Miss.) and Mike Ezell (R-Miss.) recently signed a bicameral letter requesting an updated Government Accountability Office (GAO) investigation and report on the level of federal funding awarded to abortion providers over the past three years. The Mississippi lawmakers are among 31 Senators and 81 Representatives who made the request to the GAO seeking updated data on federal taxpayer dollars from fiscal years 2022-2024 for Planned Parenthood Federation of America, International Planned Parenthood Federation, Federally Qualified Health Centers, MSI Reproductive Choices, and four domestic abortion providers. “Proper oversight of public funds and programs is crucial for determining the value of the goods and services provided to and funded by American taxpayers. The information sought in this inquiry is instrumental for policymakers and the public alike,” the lawmakers wrote. “It is our hope that this report will provide greater insight as Congress considers funding levels and provides increased transparency and openness for our constituencies and the general public,” the lawmakers continued. The GAO has prepared several congressionally requested reports on federal funding for these organizations over the years. According to its most recent report, the GAO found that abortion industry siphoned off nearly $2 billion in federal taxpayer dollars between fiscal years 2019-2021—despite long-standing congressional restrictions that prohibit the use of federal funding to provide, pay for, provide coverage of, or refer for abortions. U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and U.S. Representatives Chris Smith (R-N.J.) led the letter, which can be read here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/senator-wicker-meets-with-secdef-nominee-pete-hegseth-discusses-trump-administration-national-defense-goals,"Senator Wicker Meets with SECDEF Nominee Pete Hegseth, Discusses Trump Administration National Defense Goals",2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, met with President Trump’s nominee to serve as the next Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth. During the meeting, the two exchanged views on a range of critical national defense topics, including the military challenge posed by the Chinese Communist Party, continued instability in Europe, and the growing threats of adversaries such as China, North Korea, and Iran. Senator Wicker expressed his view – informed by the studied analysis of many defense experts – that the United States faces the most dangerous national security moment since World War II. He also raised the shared Trump-Wicker ‘peace-through-strength’ strategy as a way to confront this moment. Senator Wicker and Hegseth also discussed his nomination.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/senator-wicker-meets-with-u-s-ambassador-to-the-united-nations-nominee-congresswoman-elise-stefanik,"Senator Wicker Meets With U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nominee, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik",2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., met with President-elect Trump’s nominee for U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations (UN), Congresswoman Elise Stefanik. “I am confident that Congresswoman Stefanik will be a terrific Ambassador to the UN. I have known her for years to be a proven leader, talented communicator, and fearless advocate for American interests. Her work in the U.S. House of Representatives also shows that she understands the importance of delivering peace through strength,” Senator Wicker said. “I have absolute confidence in her ability to carry out the United States’ priorities.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/americans-don-t-have-access-to-reliable-internet-senator-wicker-offers-legislative-solutions,"Americans Don’t Have Access to Reliable Internet, Senator Wicker Offers Legislative Solutions",2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Millions of Americans still lack reliable broadband connection. A key issue is that over 100 separate broadband initiatives are currently managed across 15 different federal agencies. This has led to inefficiencies and wasted resources. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., published an op-ed in Roll Call explaining how his bill, the PLAN for Broadband Act, would help solve these problems and close the digital divide. Senator Wicker highlights a recent broadband groundbreaking ceremony he attended and how more success stories like this one could be possible. Senator Wicker is a senior member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, having previously served as Chairman and Ranking Member. Read the full op-ed here or below. December 4, 2024 Senator Roger Wicker Thanks to Congress’ work on the infrastructure law, America has the funding to make internet coverage nationwide. Where broadband goes, economic growth and educational opportunity follow. But despite the federal governments’ efforts, including decades of work and billions of dollars, too many Americans still lack reliable connection, an unacceptable fact in today’s digital world. The problem boils down to bureaucratic disorganization. Today, over 100 separate initiatives, managed by 15 individual federal agencies, have been deployed to address the digital urban-rural divide. This fragmented approach has led to inefficiencies and wasted resources. To help solve this, I have introduced legislation that would coordinate these efforts and bring communities online faster. My bill, the PLAN for Broadband Act, would direct the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to create a national strategy to synchronize those broadband initiatives. By harmonizing these programs, we can efficiently allocate resources to the communities that need them most, and at a higher speed and a lower price tag. In May 2022, I commissioned a non-partisan Government Accountability Office report to analyze the current maze of programs. It seemed clear to me that broadband funds could be used more effectively. Indeed, the report found local officials have struggled to navigate the complexity of broadband grant applications. They encounter a confusing variety of program requirements, timelines, approval processes, and other metrics. One county in Minnesota provides a particularly bad example of this problem. There, multiple providers received funds from different agencies under different broadband programs – all for the same project. It could all be avoided with a coherent strategy. Federal agencies have created some safeguards against duplication, but the programs are so complex that these measures often fall short. In many cases, Congress will have to clarify confusing statutory language. I am eager for the administration to provide lawmakers with a list of these instances so we can work to remedy them quickly. As we work toward a national plan, we can draw encouragement from progress we have already seen. Consider my home state, Mississippi. The NTIA recently approved the state’s plan to administer $1.2 billion in grants from the infrastructure law, which I negotiated as a senior member of the Senate Commerce Committee. The decision brings us one step closer to unlocking these funds. Ultimately, they will lead to broadband infrastructure and increased internet adoption across the state. In August, I visited a city that stands to benefit from efforts like these. Mound Bayou, Mississippi, celebrated its first-ever high-speed broadband installation. Because of that project, hundreds of individuals and multiple businesses will benefit from connection to this vital resource.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-honors-us-servicemembers-2024-veterans-day,HYDE-SMITH HONORS U.S. SERVICEMEMBERS ON 2024 VETERANS DAY,2024-11-08,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today issued the following statement on Veterans Day, honoring the sacrifices of the nation’s veterans and encouraging Mississippians to deepen their engagement with them: “On this Veterans Day, we pause to honor and reflect on the immense sacrifices made by the brave men and women who have served our nation. Their courage, strength, and commitment to protecting our freedom are the foundation of the liberties we hold dear as Americans. “Mississippi’s veterans and their families have made countless contributions to the defense of our nation, and it is our solemn duty to ensure they receive the care and support they deserve. As a grateful nation for their sacrifices, we must continue to remember, honor, and engage with our veterans in every way possible – not just today, but every day.” Hyde-Smith also encouraged Mississippians to participate in National Warrior Call Day on Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, to actively engage with veterans and servicemembers in an effort to curb the mental health risks many servicemembers face after defending our nation. Hyde-Smith is an original cosponsor of the National Warrior Call Day Resolution (S.Res.838), which the Senate passed in September. “Reaching out, listening, and letting our heroes know they are valued and not forgotten can make a profound difference,” said Hyde-Smith. Hyde-Smith also reiterated her commitment to assisting Mississippi veterans with accessing U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs resources. Veterans facing difficulties with VA services are encouraged to reach out to her office for assistance. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/11/news-release-senators-wicker-risch-and-colleagues-press-biden-harris-administration-to-reverse-policy-toward-state-of-qatar,"Senators Wicker, Risch, and Colleagues Press Biden-Harris Administration to Reverse Policy Toward State of Qatar",2024-11-08,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), and Jim Risch, R-Idaho, the highest-ranking Republican on the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), led 12 of their colleagues on a letter to multiple federal agencies with requests, including that the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Department of State: Immediately freeze the assets of Hamas officials living in Qatar. Extradite several senior Hamas officials currently residing in Qatar and elsewhere, including Khaled Meshal whom the Department of Justice has already indicted, and Khalil Al-Hayya. Ask Qatar to end its hospitality of Hamas’ senior leadership, as Hamas has exploited its safe haven in Qatar to confer with Iranian officials and reject reasonable negotiations in international media. “The defeat of Hamas is within reach, and ending the safe haven that its leadership enjoys abroad is vital to defeating it,” the senators wrote. “We urge you to act expediently so that this Iranian-backed terrorist organization is finally held responsible for the horrific terrorist massacre of October 7, 2023, and the war that it deliberately unleashed across the region.” The letter – which was addressed to Attorney General Merrick Garland and Secretary of State Antony Blinken – was led by Senators Wicker and Risch. Senators Marco Rubio, R-Fla., Tim Scott, R-S.C., Ted Cruz, R-Texas, Deb Fischer, R-Neb., Tom Cotton, R-Ark., Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., Rick Scott, R-Fla., Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., Ted Budd, R-N.C., and Pete Ricketts, R-Neb. co-signed the letter. Read the full letter here or below. Dear Secretary Blinken and Attorney General Garland, The Israel Defense Forces’ killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar presents a critical opportunity for the United States to compel Hamas’ surrender. This would end the war that Hamas started with its brutal terrorist massacre on October 7, 2023, in which it killed nearly 1200 people, including 46 Americans, and took 250 hostages, including twelve Americans. We therefore urge you to act quickly against Hamas’ remaining leadership, so that the organization is destroyed and defeated. First, we urge you to reverse the Biden-Harris administration’s policy toward the State of Qatar, whereby the administration has permitted Qatar to facilitate negotiations by hosting Hamas’ leadership. Hamas’ Doha-based leaders have exploited this arrangement, and used the relative freedom that Qatar has afforded them to oppose ceasefire negotiations in international media, host Iranian officials at Hamas’ Doha headquarters, and travel abroad. Qatari officials have said repeatedly that they would change their policy towards Hamas if the Biden-Harris administration asked it to do so, and we believe that it is long past time the administration ask Qatar to freeze Hamas leaders’ assets, shut their access to international media, end their ability to host foreign visitors, and prevent them from traveling abroad. Second, we urge you to seek the extradition to the United States of Hamas leader Khaled Meshal, who currently resides in Qatar. The Department of Justice unsealed indictments pertaining to multiple Hamas leaders, including Mr. Meshal, on September 3, 2024, and he should face justice for his leadership of a terrorist group that has American blood and hostages on its hands. Third, we urge you to seek indictments for Hamas’ other senior officials abroad, foremost among them Khalil Al-Hayya, who resides in Qatar. According to The New York Times, during the year prior to Hamas’ October 7, 2023 terrorist massacre, Mr. Al-Hayya sought Iranian and Hezbollah support for Hamas’ brutal attack, with the goal of assaulting Israel on multiple fronts.2 Mr. Al-Hayya should no longer be permitted to live risk-free in Doha. He should be indicted immediately for his role in killing Americans and taking Americans hostage, and then extradited to the United States to face justice. The defeat of Hamas is within reach, and ending the safe haven that its leadership enjoys abroad is vital to defeating it. We urge you to act expediently so this Iranian-backed terrorist organization is finally held responsible for the horrific terrorist massacre of October 7, 2023 and the war that it deliberately unleashed across the region.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/11/senator-wicker-announces-new-chief-of-staff,Senator Wicker Announces New Chief of Staff,2024-11-08,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today announced that his long-time chief of staff, Michelle Barlow Richardson, will leave government service to accept a new opportunity in the private sector. Richardson first joined Wicker’s staff in 1997 as a Legislative Correspondent and then Executive Assistant. After a two-year stint with the Mississippi State University Foundation, she returned to Team Wicker in 2001. She was promoted to Chief of Staff in 2006. “I have been blessed for more than two decades by having Michelle Barlow Richardson in my corner fighting for Mississippi,” Senator Wicker said. “Her leadership, attention to detail, and ability to solve problems have been indispensable in the success of our team and allowed us to achieve legislative wins that benefited all Americans. Beyond her many accomplishments, Michelle is best known to me and her colleagues for strong friendship and deep devotion. Gayle and I will miss her daily presence in the office. It is with deep gratitude and affection that we wish her the best of luck in the next phase of her career.” Senator Wicker’s Legislative Director since 2022, Beth Spivey, will be promoted to Chief of Staff. Spivey is a native of Brandon and a graduate of the University of Mississippi. She has worked in the private sector and government including as an aide to Former U.S. Senator Trent Lott, R-Miss., and as Assistant Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security for Legislative Affairs during the first Donald J. Trump Administration.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/11/senator-wicker-celebrates-groundbreaking-of-new-power-plant-in-washington-county,Senator Wicker Celebrates Groundbreaking of New Power Plant in Washington County,2024-11-07,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"GREENVILLE – Today, Entergy Mississippi held a groundbreaking ceremony for their first new natural gas power station in 50 years. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., issued the following statement: ""I applaud Entergy Mississippi for continuing to invest in our state. The power plant will bring more jobs, growth, and economic opportunity to Greenville and the surrounding communities,” Senator Wicker said. “Today is a great day for the Delta and our state.” The new natural gas power plant will be the first combined-cycle combustion turbine power station that Entergy Mississippi has built from the ground up. The facility’s advanced and efficient technology will produce more electricity from the same amount of fuel, ensuring that our state has reliable energy for years to come.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/10/senator-wicker-commends-dr-darsey-s-appointment-to-federal-board,Senator Wicker Commends Dr. Darsey’s Appointment to Federal Board,2024-10-30,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., commended the appointment of Dr. Damon Darsey to the FirstNet Authority Board of Directors. Senator Wicker recommended Dr. Darsey to the Acting Associate Administrator of the Office of Public Safety Communications at the U.S. Department of Commerce and Secretary Gina Raimondo. The Board of Directors provides oversight of FirstNet, which is a nationwide interoperable public safety broadband network designed to connect first responders across departments for large-scale disasters. The board is also responsible for providing FirstNet with overall policy direction and strategic guidance. “Dr. Darsey has been a leader in public safety for Mississippi. For years, he has been engaged in the policy, development, technical, and political challenges around deploying a dedicated public safety network. His experience as the Medical Director for the Mississippi Department of Public Safety is a valuable asset to the board’s composition. I am confident he will continue to be an advocate for our communities and first responders,” Senator Wicker said. Since 2010, Dr. Darsey has been the principal investigator of nearly $36 million of grants focusing on the clinical and academic interest of improving the communications, care, and coordination of first responders and in-field medical care.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/10/senator-wicker-statement-on-georgia-s-parliamentary-election,Senator Wicker Statement on Georgia’s Parliamentary Election,2024-10-30,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Following Georgia’s election results, U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., issued this statement: “This past Saturday, the people of Georgia went to the polls to exercise their democratic right to choose their next government. Instead of a dignified, transparent, and lawful process, what they got was a farce. The people of Georgia’s democratic choice was undermined by rampant violations, including intimidation, violence, vote buying, and results that diverged sharply from credible independent pre-election and exit polling as well as trends from prior elections. “We share Georgian President Zourabichvili's belief that these elections were neither free nor fair and do not reflect the will of the people. Unfortunately, the Moscow-backed Georgian Dream party seems to think that alongside Russia and its authoritarian axis, they can wait out the United States and Georgia’s democratic allies. They are wrong. “The manipulation of this election is not only a blow to Georgia's fragile democracy but, if allowed to stand, an end to the country's longstanding Euro-Atlantic aspirations—and possibly its very sovereignty. This is electoral fraud, and its illegitimate result must be confronted with clarity and resolve. As long as Georgian Dream clings to power through undemocratic means and under the tutelage of violent authoritarians, they will reap the contempt and isolation they so richly deserve.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-hopeful-house-will-take-senate-passed-prison-contraband-bill,HYDE-SMITH HOPEFUL HOUSE WILL TAKE UP SENATE-PASSED PRISON CONTRABAND BILL,2024-10-29,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"Hyde-Smith Cosponsored Bipartisan Measure to Crack Down on Contraband in Federal Prisons WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today expressed her hope Congress will complete work on Senate-passed bipartisan legislation she cosponsored to crack down on contraband and organized crime in federal prisons. The Senate recently approved and referred the bipartisan Lieutenant Osvaldo Albarati Stopping Prison Contraband Act (S.5284) to the House of Representatives. It would upgrade the charge of smuggling a contraband cellphone into a federal prison from a misdemeanor offense to a felony crime as a means of cracking down on the smuggling of contraband cellphones into federal prisons. “Cell phones smuggled into prisons as contraband create a threat to everyone – including other prisoners, outside civilians, and especially those who are responsible for the prison’s safety. I am excited to see the passage of this important bill that will allow for more appropriate punishments for this dangerous felony offense,” said Hyde-Smith, who also introduced her own prison contraband bill earlier this year. The penalty in Mississippi for introducing or possessing contraband cell phones in state prison is punishable by up to a 15-year prison term. Current federal law caps punishment for this same offense in federal prisons at no more than one year. S.5284 would change the penalty to be punishable by up to five years in prison. S.5284 is named in honor of Lt. Osvaldo Albarati, the Bureau of Prisons correctional officer who was murdered in 2013 after completing his shift at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico. Five men who later pleaded guilty to the crime admitted they targeted Albarati as a direct result of continuous seizures of contraband, including cell phones. The inmate who placed the hit on Albarati did so using a contraband cell phone. “My family and I are extremely pleased with S.5284 passing the Senate. We look forward to continued support from the House as this bill will assist in protecting families in the future from experiencing what my family has had to endure,” said Helen Albarati, widow of Lt. Albarati. S.5284 was introduced by U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas). Department of Justice Inspector General Michael Horowitz issued a statement applauding Senate passage of the bill and encouraging House action on the measure. In February, Hyde-Smith introduced the END CELLS (Eliminate Non-approved Devices and Contraband Electronics Limiting Links to Society) Act (S.3780), which would make it unlawful for anyone to provide or attempt to provide a federal, state or local prisoner with a wireless communications device and further make it unlawful for a prisoner to possess such a device while incarcerated. The Hyde-Smith legislation would also impose additional criminal and civil penalties of up to $50,000 for each violation involving prisoners using contraband cell phones and for those individuals who provide the smuggled devices. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/10/senator-wicker-announces-170-million-for-bridge-and-rail-line-projects-across-mississippi,Senator Wicker Announces $170 Million For Bridge and Rail Line Projects Across Mississippi,2024-10-28,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded $111,432,520 to replace 13 bridges and rehabilitate another and $59,525,044 to support rail projects to improve railroads. Funding for both the bridge and rail projects stems from the infrastructure bill that Senator Wicker helped negotiate as the then highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. Bridge Projects: Senator Wicker prioritized rural corridors in his letters of support for Bridge Investment Program Grants. The grant program modernizes and enhances infrastructure, bolstering the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the movement of people and freight over bridges. Mississippi will benefit from $43,920,000 that will go toward rehabilitating the Coahoma County Bridge that crosses the Mississippi River (Highway 49) from Helena, Arkansas, into Lula, Mississippi. The Mississippi Department of Transportation received $67,512,520 to replace 13 bridge structures in central Mississippi: five bridges in Newton County constructed in 1929 and 1930, five bridges in Madison County constructed between 1929 and 1939, and three bridges in Lauderdale County constructed in 1928 and 1929. Senator Wicker statement on the bridge funding: “Mississippi’s economy and people should not be traveling on nearly century-old bridges. This bill provides the investment our state has needed to make the necessary repairs or replacements,” Senator Wicker said. “I am pleased that the bill I helped negotiate keeps bringing solutions to Mississippi.” Rail Lines: Improved rail lines will help deliver freight on time and increase economic development in the state. Senator Wicker has been a strong supporter of these lines, previously writing letters of support for the grants. Specifically, the funds are dedicated as: $18,247,915 to expand service capacity and capabilities along the approximately 200-mile Grenada Railroad, improve road crossing conditions and safety, and harden the infrastructure to support growing freight demands in the region. The grant funding will allow the railroad to rehabilitate twenty-seven at-grade road crossings, add signals to improve safety in the surrounding communities, and eliminate six hundred rail joints. In addition, the project would increase the physical capacity of the Canadian National­ Grenada Railroad interchange in Canton, Mississippi, to facilitate rail service for multiple new industries and add siding capacity to reduce the number of blocked crossings. $2,942,412 to improve the efficiency and capacity of the Lowndes County Port’s existing tenants and operators, provide rail access to additional port properties, and subsequently induce a freight modal shift from trucks to rail and barge for the port. $7,734,717 to create new rail connections to shippers and improve the safety and performance of rail shipments along the Natchez Railway. This is the only east-west rail line serving rural Southwest Mississippi. $30,600,000 for Final Design and Construction to improve track conditions on eight Patriot railroads across the southeast. The project will focus on replacing rail, ties, and switches. Senator Wicker statement on the rail funding: “I was glad to support these projects. They will help create jobs, keep freight deliveries on time, and boost economic development. These rail lines will help keep Mississippi moving.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/10/over-33-million-awarded-to-mississippi-for-jackson-s-water-infrastructure-upgrades,Over $33 Million Awarded to Mississippi for Jackson’s Water Infrastructure Upgrades,2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"JACKSON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency awarded over $33 million to Mississippi for Jackson’s water infrastructure upgrades. “This funding will continue to help Jackson improve its drinking and wastewater systems. I am pleased with the work being done by the third-party manager. We will continue to support our state’s capital city in its pursuit to bring improved infrastructure to the citizens of Jackson,” Senator Wicker said. The funding stems from the infrastructure bill that Senator Wicker helped negotiate as the then highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. Senator Wicker has long supported federal efforts to improve Jackson’s water infrastructure. Specifically, the funds are dedicated as:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/10/senator-wicker-statement-on-gulf-coast-passenger-service-grant-approval,Senator Wicker Statement on Gulf Coast Passenger Service Grant Approval,2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, an agreement was reached among stakeholders on the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Grant which will provide crucial funding to restore passenger rail service along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The $178,435,333 grant was previously awarded by the Federal Railroad Administration. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., has used his position as Chairman and Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee to restore the return of passenger rail to the Gulf Coast for the first time since Hurricane Katrina. While serving as chairman, he helped negotiate the infrastructure bill which is the origin of the CRISI Grant. Senator Wicker released the following statement: “I appreciate the partnership shared by local and state government officials and the freight rail companies, CSX, and Norfolk Southern. This service will provide economic opportunities to the Gulf Coast Region and provide an alternative way to move people safely. Years of hard work and cooperation have brought us to this important moment,” Senator Wicker said. Scheduled to resume in 2025, the services are expected to provide economic growth opportunities, boost tourism, and reduce traffic on our roadways. Two trains will run roundtrip from New Orleans to Mobile with stops in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/10/senator-wicker-to-president-biden-make-final-push-for-ukraine-before-leaving-office,Senator Wicker to President Biden: Make Final Push for Ukraine Before Leaving Office,2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, is demanding that President Biden exercise his responsibilities as commander-in-chief and give Ukraine the weapons it needs to make a “substantial difference” on the battlefield in the last 90 days of his term. Senator Wicker specifically called on the president to provision Ukraine with weaponry at a much faster rate, deliver more vehicles, missiles, drones and counter-drone equipment, and increase defense industrial base cooperation between the United States and Ukraine, among other recommendations. The senator sent these detailed requests, along with more than five others, as a part of a detailed plan to enable Ukrainian success prior to the next presidential term starting. These demands follow repeated, unsuccessful engagements with the White House since August. In the letter, Senator Wicker notes that he sent a classified letter to President Biden with suggestions on how to improve the military assistance program for Ukraine, and he later followed up with a September phone call to the president regarding the letter. Senator Wicker has also shared these ideas with senior national security officials but has yet to see them yield any significant results. “I am frustrated – and mystified – that your administration has accomplished so little in the last three months regarding the war in Ukraine. You seem poised to leave the next president a weak hand,” Senator Wicker wrote. For two years, Senator Wicker has led Senate Republicans in pushing President Biden to implement a more effective strategy for Ukrainian victory. In September, Senator Wicker criticized President Biden’s intention to drag out his use of Presidential Drawdown Authority. Senator Wicker has also repeatedly published a detailed timeline of many instances when President Biden failed to deliver support to Ukraine at a speed where they could make a difference on the battlefield. In a 2023 floor speech, Senator Wicker laid out his first principles as it comes to supporting Ukraine: “more, better, faster.” Read the full October 18, 2024 letter here or below. October 17, 2024 President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. President, In early August, I sent you a classified letter, which identified steps you could take to support Ukraine more aggressively. The letter contained detailed recommendations, including policy changes and suggestions to improve military assistance delivery and defense industrial base cooperation. My goal was to highlight ways that your administration could use its remaining six months in office wisely – to put Ukraine in the most advantageous position possible for your successor, whomever the American people choose. I followed up with you in a phone conversation in mid-September, and I have attended meetings with senior national security officials. I am frustrated – and mystified – that your administration has accomplished so little in the last three months regarding the war in Ukraine. You seem poised to leave the next president a weak hand. Nonetheless, I maintain that a focused effort – directed by you – could make a substantial difference over your final 90 days as president. Toward that end, I have included a list of 10 recommendations. Recommendation 1: Increase the pace of weapons transfers to Ukraine. The current pace of Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) usage would drag on through calendar year 2025. This is true despite the agreement between Congress and your administration that the authority granted in the National Security Supplemental would last through calendar year 2024. That tempo led your administration to seek a $5.5 billion extension of this authority last month. The Secretaries of State and Defense exercised this authority to prevent its expiration, but your administration has said that the pace of deliveries will not change. Ukraine will continue to receive only about $400 million in military equipment per month for the next 14 months. I am troubled that your administration is using U.S. military readiness as an excuse to “manage” the conflict in Ukraine. Officials are making decisions about strategic and military risk, but they are not consulting Congress. You should direct the Secretary of Defense to provide you a plan that would deliver the remaining $5.5 billion in Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) to Ukraine immediately. Deliver more vehicles. Ukraine needs many more heavy vehicles, such as M1A1 Abrams tanks and Bradley infantry fighting vehicles, to form the core of combined-arms brigades. Ukraine also faces a significant shortfall of general protected vehicles (such as up-armored HMMWVs, ambulances, and MRAPs) to protect troops from Russian drones and artillery. The U.S. Army and Marine Corps possess ample stocks of these vehicles. Our industrial base can easily replace those that are transferred. Additionally, there is no near-term need for massive stockpiles of vehicles given the degraded state of Russian ground forces. Deliver more ATACMS. Ukraine has used U.S.-provided ATACMS responsibly and effectively, but it needs more. We have a sufficient inventory of serviceable long-range ATACMS. A significant number of these should go to Ukraine. Although there may be division within your administration on this recommendation, I urge you to push the Army and the combatant commands to aid Ukraine’s largely successful deep strike campaign. Deliver more drones and counter unmanned aerial systems. U.S. attack drone and counter-UAS production can increase. The industrial base is expanding rapidly and has multiple solution options in each of these areas. Ukraine is quite receptive to using unproven systems. Recommendation 2: Allow greater flexibility on restrictions for U.S.-provided munitions. One of Ukraine’s key asymmetric advantages against Russia is its ability to target high-value Russian military targets and to do so rapidly. Your administration has hamstrung this crucial advantage. You should immediately revise any policies that limit the use of U.S.-provided munitions, including ATACMS, to strike military targets inside Russia. Any restrictions should be placed on the types of targets, rather than on the distance from a border that Russia does not even recognize. Numerous allies and partners already allow their long-range munitions to be used for deep strikes. Recommendation 3: Increase the cap of U.S. government non-military personnel allowed in-country. You should direct Secretary Blinken to allow more State Department, Defense Department, and other government agency personnel inside Ukraine. The current number of personnel cannot manage a military aid effort in the tens of billions of dollars while conducting planning for future improvements in the Ukrainian industrial base and economy. As a result, anything beyond the day-to-day management is not getting done. Current staff is overworked, and more U.S. government personnel are required to manage security assistance and to conduct accountability and oversight work. Numerous allies already have a much more risk-tolerant government presence in Ukraine. Recommendation 4: Establish a regulated presence of U.S. military contractors inside Ukraine. You should allow a limited number of U.S. military contractors to operate in Ukraine – under strict conditions – to increase Ukraine’s ability to maintain its equipment. The current approach is too slow, as we remotely perform maintenance or move Ukrainian equipment to Poland for up-keep. The presence of U.S. contractors in-country would also help to mentor Ukrainian personnel to increase their self-sufficiency. U.S. contractors are well-prepared to execute such a mission. They have extensive experience in Iraq and Afghanistan. British, French, and Czech personnel are already in-country, or will soon be, to conduct similar missions. Recommendation 5: Expand training for Ukrainian land forces. The United States should maximize the use of all available training capacity located in the European Command (EUCOM) area of responsibility, and it should build up Ukrainian brigades capable of combined arms warfare. Currently, improved Ukrainian recruitment is outpacing Ukrainian and allied training. EUCOM almost certainly has the ability to train even more troops per month than it does now, which would help cover the number of troops that Ukraine does not have the capacity to train. Recommendation 6: Deliver more shareable, commercially-derived intelligence. The administration should use processes already in place to increase the delivery of available unclassified information to Ukraine, including disposition of Russian forces and location data. The National Reconnaissance Office has contract vehicles in place for commercial satellite services (such as RF data) that are instrumental in providing Ukraine with services for tipping and cueing (i.e., targeting) of Russian radars, air assets, defense systems, and other threats. Recommendation 7: Dramatically expand the Pentagon industrial base policy workforce. U.S. industrial base expansion and industrial base integration with Europe is not happening fast enough because we lack the personnel to plan and execute these activities. You should direct the Secretary of Defense, in the next 15 days, to reassign at least 100 capable and motivated DOD civil servants, moving them into these offices and asking Congress for new hiring authorities and supplemental money to pay for this expansion. The short-staffed office that runs the Defense Production Act illustrates the need. Only a handful of people staff that organization, which is tasked with finding ways to rebuild our supplier base for solid rocket motors, missile casings, and more. DOD industrial base offices can also help allies and partners expand their own production, such as the Storm Shadow and SCALP lines in the UK and France, respectively. These U.S. offices include: Joint Production Acceleration Cell Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for International and Industry Engagement Manufacturing Capability Expansion and Investment Prioritization (DPA & ICAM/IBAS) Recommendation 8: Rapidly accelerate contracting timelines. I understand that many large contracts for Ukraine, especially those funded through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, are still taking a year or more on average. This is unacceptable. Section 1244 of the Fiscal Year 2023 NDAA, as well as additional contracting authorities, grant broad flexibilities to the Department of Defense. By written instruction, you should formally direct the Secretary of Defense and the service acquisition executives to require all contracting officers to leverage – to the maximum extent possible – those contracting flexibilities. The Army has used section 1244 for the new 155mm artillery ammunition factory in Mesquite, Texas, and doing so brought it online two years faster than expected. Recommendation 9: Hold monthly high-level defense industrial base meetings. You should direct the Secretaries of State, Defense, and Commerce to host monthly high-level defense industrial base meetings with Ukraine, key NATO allies, and defense industry officials. You should prioritize coproduction with Ukraine so it can better meet its own needs. Recommendation 10: Deliver more DPICMs. In addition to ATACMS, Ukraine also has used Dual Purpose Improved Conventional Munitions (DPICMs) effectively and responsibly. The U.S. inventory includes hundreds of thousands of serviceable 155mm DPICMs rounds. Each 155mm DPICMs round has the effect of 3–5 high explosive artillery projectiles. You possess the authority to send Ukraine $250 million of DPICMs today. There is simply no way to offset the artillery advantage of the Russians without using DPICMs. Sincerely, Roger F. Wicker Ranking Member",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-encourages-participation-upcoming-national-warrior-call-day-aid-us-veterans,HYDE-SMITH ENCOURAGES PARTICIPATION IN UPCOMING ‘NATIONAL WARRIOR CALL DAY’ TO AID U.S. VETERANS & SERVICEMEMBERS,2024-10-17,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"Miss. Senator Cosponsored Bipartisan, Senate-Passed Resolution Aimed at Fostering Connections & Combatting Rising Suicide Rates WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today encouraged Mississippians to take the next month to prepare for “National Warrior Call Day,” November 17, 2024, to actively engage with veterans and active servicemembers in an effort to curb the mental health risks many servicemembers face after defending our nation. Hyde-Smith is an original cosponsor of the National Warrior Call Day Resolution (S.Res.838), which the Senate approved late last month. “As Americans, it’s our patriotic duty to honor and stand by those who stood for us. The National Warrior Call Day resolution is a powerful reminder that that we all have a role to play in supporting veterans and those in the Armed Forces. Reaching out, listening, and letting our heroes know they are valued and not forgotten can make a profound difference,” Hyde-Smith said. The resolution underscores the alarming rise in suicide rates among veterans and military personnel, and calls for outreach to these individuals to help combat feelings of isolation that may prevent them from seeking help, potentially leading to self-harm. It also highlights the need for increased research into the connection between traumatic brain injuries and the mental health challenges faced by our servicemembers. The resolution was introduced by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) to promote National Warrior Call Day and reinforce the nation’s commitment to support those who have served our nation. “We have a responsibility to support the brave men and women who have served this nation that extends well beyond their time in the line of duty,” said Shaheen. “Our bipartisan resolution designates a National Warrior Call Day to help strengthen relationships between veterans and civilians and better keep lines of communication open in order to share resources and provide support.” “Americans can never fully pay back those who serve in defense of America. We can, however, make sure that active military members and veterans have access to the support they need after serving to lead active and healthy lives. This bipartisan resolution will raise awareness on the importance of building relationships with those who defend our freedom,” Cotton said. Information regarding suicide prevention among veterans can be found here, and among active duty service members here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/10/senator-wicker-announces-nearly-130-million-to-improve-mississippi-infrastructure,Senator Wicker Announces Nearly $130 Million to Improve Mississippi Infrastructure,2024-10-17,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"MISSISSIPPI – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., announced $127,296,812 to improve freight corridors in Jackson and on the Gulf Coast. The funding stems from the infrastructure bill that Senator Wicker helped negotiate as the then highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. The funding will upgrade SR 67 to a Superstreet Corridor on the Gulf Coast. It will also resurface approximately 32 linear miles and update bridge structures along the Interstate 20/ Interstate 55 Freight Corridor in Jackson. “Infrastructure investments make Mississippi an even better place to live, work, and visit. These improvements will help attract more people and economic development to the Gulf Coast and Jackson area,” Senator Wicker said. “Supporting infrastructure will continue to be one of my top priorities in Congress.” Senator Wicker sent letters of support to the U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg for these projects.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/10/senator-wicker-statement-on-the-elimination-of-yahya-sinwar,Senator Wicker Statement on the Elimination of Yahya Sinwar,2024-10-17,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to reports that the Israel Defense Force eliminated Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in Gaza: “Iran and its proxies should take note that in a matter of weeks, Israel has decapitated the senior leadership of Hezbollah and Hamas. The world is a safer place because Israel has proven what strong action against global terrorism should look like,” Senator Wicker said. “Every time the Biden-Harris administration attempts to place conditions on Israel’s self-defense, they are weakening Israeli and American responses to terrorism. The only way that this war will end is with Israel’s victory and the defeat of Iran’s terrorist proxies. Israel’s removal of the architect of this war represents another key step toward eliminating these threats.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/10/enator-wicker-discusses-defense-spending-shipbuilding-china-vp-harris-and-israel-on-the-hugh-hewitt-show,"Senator Wicker Discusses Defense Spending, Shipbuilding, China, VP Harris, and Israel on “The Hugh Hewitt Show”",2024-10-08,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined “The Hugh Hewitt Show” program and discussed several national defense topics, including the October 7th Anniversary, China’s shocking growth in naval shipbuilding, and the Biden-Harris administration’s weak record on China. The interview follows Senator Wicker’s October 7th Anniversary statement which was released on Monday. Read selected excerpts from the interview below, or watch the full segment here. On a Harris presidency & China policy: “If it’s any indication of how her party has done with their leader in the U.S. Senate, yes, it’s very much a concern [how Harris would do with China]. Every time we’ve wanted to spend a few extra dollars – a few percentage points of our huge economy – to defend ourselves, the Democrats say: “well, we won’t do that unless we can increase domestic spending, too.” So, it’s been like pulling teeth getting a few extra ships built.” On shipbuilding: “China has 200 times the Navy shipbuilding capacity we do. When you talk about [how] we need to increase the number of fighter jets, or submarines, or ships, some people say: “well, we don’t even have the industrial capacity. We don’t have enough manufacturing plants.” And of course, the answer to that is: let’s get some. We’re going to have to increase our national defense to keep us out of a war. The idea is to keep the peace by being so strong that nobody will take a chance on us. On a future DOD budget: “What we need to do – and what I’ve advocated – and what military experts past and present are saying is that we need to go back to Ronald Reagan’s ‘peace through strength.’ And that does involve about five percent of our economy used to get us ready to defend ourselves in a war…if we spend five percent of our gross domestic product on defending America, we can save hundreds of billions and trillions of dollars by staying out of a war…the last time our Senate Republicans met with President Trump, he was very clear that he shared our determination to increase our Navy and get it back up to the point where we’re able to protect America and deter somebody from attacking us. So that was very much an encouraging statement from President Trump.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/10/senator-wicker-statement-on-october-7th-anniversary,Senator Wicker Statement on October 7th Anniversary,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement: “A year ago, innocent Israelis and Americans were kidnapped, brutally raped, and murdered. Today, we demand the release of the hostages and remember the victims,” Senator Wicker said. “Make no mistake: Iran and its proxies have no stated purpose other than the destruction of the Jewish state and they publicly regard the United States as the ‘Great Satan.’ The slogan ‘From the River to the Sea’ is not mere words. This is a call for genocide, pure and simple.” “Israel invited none of this aggression. How Israel decides to protect its people and its democracy is their decision to make. As they go on offense, we stand by our most steadfast ally in the region. The civilized world should stand together for a swift, sustained, and victorious response.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-grassley-continue-push-help-rural-hospitals-through-demonstration-program,"HYDE-SMITH, GRASSLEY CONTINUE PUSH TO HELP RURAL HOSPITALS THROUGH DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM",2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"Senators Issue Letter Pressing Full Use of Successful CMS Program for Stressed Rural Hospitals WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) continue to push the Biden administration to fully utilize a federal program that has been described as a lifeline for some struggling rural hospitals. In a joint letter, Hyde-Smith and Grassley this week pressed the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on its refusal to use the budget-neutral Rural Community Hospital Demonstration (RCHD), despite the program’s proven efficacy for participating rural hospitals and qualifying facilities’ interest in joining. “Current law allows up to 30 hospitals to participate in the RCHD, but for the past several years CMS has underutilized the program leaving as many as eight spots vacant. While there is interest from additional rural hospitals to participate, your agency has not taken action to add eligible hospitals. In fact, CMS told us that there would be too much interest among rural hospitals,” the Senators wrote CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure. “The most recent performance data suggests that new RCHD hospitals significantly improved their Medicare margins, although those gains were not large enough to impact their total profit margins. This signals that the RCHD program offers a shot in the arm for financially-challenged rural hospitals to keep their doors open and provide health care services,” the Senators wrote. “The RCHD program is supporting rural hospitals and it should be fully utilized. If CMS has the tools to help one rural hospital, then you should be doing something about it,” they concluded. The letter also cited commitments made by Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra to work with the lawmakers to enroll more at-risk rural hospitals in RCHD, including at an April appropriations subcommittee hearing. Congress established the RCHD program in 2003 and reauthorized it three times to sustain a program that uses alternative payment models for rural hospitals facing financial constraints with the Medicare Inpatient Prospective Payment System. CMS last solicited program applications in 2017. The Anderson Regional Medical Center in Meridian, Highland Community Hospital in Picayune, Marion General Hospital in Columbia are RCHD facilities where innovation models are being tested. Click here to read a copy of the Senators’ letter to CMS. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/10/senator-wicker-statement-on-iranian-missile-attack-on-israel,Senator Wicker Statement on Iranian Missile Attack on Israel,2024-10-01,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to reports of Iranian forces firing a missile salvo at Israeli sovereign territory: “Iran and its terrorist proxies – Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis – will never stop their campaign to eliminate Israel from the map. The Ayatollah's regime must be eliminated,” Senator Wicker said. “Jews, Arabs, and Iranians all deserve to live side by side in a peaceful neighborhood.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-signs-bill-protect-seniors-access-health-care,HYDE-SMITH SIGNS ONTO BILL TO PROTECT SENIORS’ ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE,2024-09-27,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"Physician Fee Stabilization Act is Bipartisan Effort to Reform Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, Benefit Rural States WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) this week cosponsored a bipartisan effort to update and reform the Medicare physician fee schedule in order to assure seniors’ access to health care services, particularly for those living in rural states like Mississippi. The Physician Fee Stabilization Act (S.4935) aims to address declining Medicare physician reimbursements by increasing a 32-year-old budget neutrality threshold to essentially keep pace with inflation. Declining Medicare physician reimbursement disproportionately affects small, independent, and rural practices. “Improving rural healthcare has been a priority for me since I was elected. Unfortunately, that job is made harder because some doctors are becoming reluctant to accept Medicare patients because the federal reimbursement rates aren’t keeping up with inflation and are often subject to cuts,” Hyde-Smith said. “The Physician Fee Stabilization Act is a practical way to stabilize fee structures and finally update a Medicare formula that hasn’t been changed since 1992.” S.4935 would ensure greater flexibility in determining pricing adjustments for Medicare services without triggering harmful annual payment cuts to Medicare-serving physicians. The bill also includes provisions that authorize an increase in the budget neutrality threshold every five years to ensure future physician compensation payments with the Medicare Economic Index. “Medicare patients must have access to quality health services. Ensuring physicians are fairly compensated for their work will help deliver stability to providers so they continue to meet the needs of their communities. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan solution that enhances Medicare’s sustainability,” said U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-Ark.), who introduced the bill. The Mississippi State Medical Association, National Rural Health Association, American Medical Association, American College of Physicians, and American Academy of Family Physicians are among the many health organizations that support the Physician Fee Stabilization Act. Additional cosponsors include Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Angus King (I-Maine), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kan.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.). Hyde-Smith serves on the Senate Labor, Health and Humans Services, and Education Appropriations Subcommittee and has worked to advance health issues throughout her tenure in the Senate. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/senator-wicker-statement-on-biden-harris-administration-troop-withdrawals-from-iraq,Senator Wicker Statement on Biden-Harris Administration Troop Withdrawals from Iraq,2024-09-27,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response the Biden-Harris administration’s decision to withdraw U.S. forces from the counter-ISIS mission in Iraq: “I am deeply troubled that the Biden-Harris administration could repeat a chaotic and deadly withdrawal in yet another country. This mistake could lead the way to a resurgence in terrorist activity and enable a complete Iranian takeover of Iraq, just as happened with President Obama’s withdrawal in 2011,” Senator Wicker said. “The decision – which comes after repeated, unabating, and lethal attacks on our servicemembers – is nothing short of American retreat, and it is a disservice to the thousands of U.S. soldiers who fought and died defending American interests.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/miss-lawmakers-key-field-officially-running-kc-46-selection,MISS. LAWMAKERS: KEY FIELD IS OFFICIALLY IN THE RUNNING FOR KC-46 SELECTION,2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"Miss. Facility Among Seven Possible Locations for Mission as Candidate Field Narrows WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S Air Force today notified the Mississippi congressional delegation that Key Field in Meridian is officially in the running to be the future home of the new KC-46 aircraft. The nation-wide candidate field has been narrowed to seven, in what is called a “down-selection.” The Mississippi congressional delegation has worked for years to make sure Key Field, an Air National Guard Base, is seen as a strong candidate for the selection. “Making it this far in the down-selection process is an accomplishment. If Key Field is ultimately chosen, it would cement and extend the base’s role in our country’s national security infrastructure for decades to come,” U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) said. “For the Meridian community, this would be a significant investment. It would bring more service members and families, as well as direct and indirect jobs, to the area. This is one of my top priorities.” “We welcome this positive development for the future of Key Field and Lauderdale County. As the process moves forward, we will continue to forcefully make the case that Key Field will be the best place for this important mission,” said U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.). “The 186th Air Refueling Wing (ARW) in Meridian is a leader in aerial refueling, and I am pleased that Key Field Air National Guard Base is one of seven sites that is advancing in the KC-46A basing decision process,” said U.S. Representative Michael Guest (R-Miss.). “I am grateful for the unity of our entire Mississippi Congressional Delegation—Senators Roger Wicker and Cindy Hyde-Smith and Representatives Bennie Thompson, Trent Kelly, and Mike Ezell—as well as the support of our State and local leadership for this effort. I appreciate the Air Force’s consideration of Key Field and look forward to the opportunity to showcase the 186th ARW’s capabilities as we move into the next phase of this decision.” Important factors that make Key Field a potential home for the KC-46s, a military refueling and strategic transport plane: Key Field is already home to KC-135 planes, which are air refueling tankers that provide rapid global mobility and combat support to the U.S. Department of Defense. The 186th Air Refueling Wing (ARW), which hosts more than 1,200 officers and airmen, operates these planes out of Key Field. The KC-46s would replace the aging KC-135 tankers currently in service at Key Field. The 186th ARW is one of the few military installations that can handle the new plane without needing to make major changes to a base. The airfield is in a prime location in the vicinity of refueling tracks over the Southeastern United States and the Gulf of Mexico, enabling rapid servicing of Air Force and joint service aircraft fleets, including strategic communications aircraft. The Meridian community already has infrastructure and support services in place that will benefit next generation air refueling capabilities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/key-field-is-officially-in-the-running-for-kc-46-selection,Key Field is Officially in the Running for KC-46 Selection,2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S Air Force notified Mississippi’s Congressional Delegation that Key Field in Meridian is officially in the running to be the future home of the new KC-46 aircraft. The nation-wide candidate field has been narrowed to seven, in what is called a “down-selection.” Mississippi’s Congressional Delegation has worked for years to make sure Key Field, an Air National Guard Base, is seen as a strong candidate for the selection. “Making it this far in the down-selection process is an accomplishment. If Key Field is ultimately chosen, it would cement and extend the base’s role in our country’s national security infrastructure for decades to come,” U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., said. “For the Meridian community, this would be a significant investment. It would bring more service members and families, as well as direct and indirect jobs, to the area. This is one of my top priorities.” ""We welcome this positive development for the future of Key Field and Lauderdale County. As the process moves forward, we will continue to forcefully make the case that Key Field will be the best place for this important mission,"" Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., said. “The 186th Air Refueling Wing (ARW) in Meridian is a leader in aerial refueling, and I am pleased that Key Field Air National Guard Base is one of seven sites that is advancing in the KC-46A basing decision process,” said Congressman Michael Guest (MS-03). “I am grateful for the unity of our entire Mississippi Congressional Delegation—Senators Roger Wicker and Cindy Hyde-Smith and Representatives Bennie Thompson, Trent Kelly, and Mike Ezell—as well as the support of our State and local leadership for this effort. I appreciate the Air Force’s consideration of Key Field and look forward to the opportunity to showcase the 186th ARW’s capabilities as we move into the next phase of this decision.” Key factors that have made Key Field a potential home for the KC-46s, a military refueling and strategic transport plane:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/senators-wicker-and-hyde-smith-honor-james-earl-jones,Senators Wicker and Hyde-Smith Honor James Earl Jones,2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Last night, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution that honors the late actor James Earl Jones, who passed away in early September. U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., led the effort. “Mississippi has lost a beloved son, and the world has lost an extraordinary talent. From Arkabutla to immortality, James Earl Jones, R.I.P. We'll remember your voice and your heart,” Senator Wicker said. “From the Mississippi Delta to the world stage, James Earl Jones’s extraordinary voice and commanding presence inspired generations. His contributions to the arts, culture, and humanities will undoubtedly stand the test of time. May his legacy always remind us of the strength, resilience, and power that comes from our Mississippi roots,” Senator Hyde-Smith said. U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., and Gary Peters, D-Mich., also cosponsored the resolution. Jones was born in Arkabutla, Mississippi and was widely known for his roles in The Lion King, Star Wars, Field of Dreams, and more.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/congress-passes-temporary-government-funding-legislation-senator-wicker-highlights-why-this-is-the-wrong-approach,"Congress Passes Temporary Government Funding Legislation, Senator Wicker Highlights Why This is the Wrong Approach",2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Tonight, Congress passed a continuing resolution (CR) to prevent a government shutdown and temporarily extend funding until December 20, 2024. This gives lawmakers more time to reach an agreement on a long-term funding plan. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., released the following statement expressing why CRs pose a threat to our national security: “A CR maintains last year’s priorities and does not provide for needed investments in our troops and military. Even worse, the Biden-Harris administration has provided inadequate support to Pentagon modernization efforts while inflation soars and our adversaries have grown their militaries and have become more aggressive,” Senator Wicker said. “I am glad we avoided a shutdown, but this is not the right path forward. We cannot continue to ask our service members to do more with less.” Fortunately, the CR ensures that fundamental pro-life provisions like the Hyde Amendment are still in effect. The Hyde Amendment, which prohibits the use of federal funds for abortions, has been attached to appropriations bills for nearly four decades.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/senator-wicker-raises-alarm-over-damaged-navy-oiler-in-arabian-sea,Senator Wicker Raises Alarm Over Damaged Navy Oiler in Arabian Sea,2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to press reports that the Navy’s fleet oiler USNS Big Horn was damaged off the coast of Oman in the Arabian Sea: “I am troubled about reports that the Navy’s sole fleet oiler in the CENTCOM region has been rendered temporarily inoperable. If we cannot fuel our ships, our capabilities will be greatly diminished,” Senator Wicker. “The Big Horn’s problems also speak to a larger challenge – we are woefully in need of a larger logistics fleet, which is the lifeline for our global military presence. I hope this incident serves as a wake-up call that it is high time to fix our shipbuilding industrial base and support our merchant mariners.” Senator Wicker posed the following questions to the Department of Defense: Where did the Big Horn take damage? What is the initial damage assessment for the Big Horn? What was the cause of the damage (weather, navigator error, etc.)? Can the Big Horn operate under its own power? What is the estimated time required for the repair of the vessel? Is there another vessel able to fill the capability gap? If so, when will it be in the area? Does the administration support additional executable funding for fleet oilers in the FY25 appropriations process? Senator Wicker noted the following facts related to shortfalls in the U.S. Navy’s logistics fleet:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/senator-wicker-statement-on-president-biden-planning-to-use-presidential-drawdown-authority-for-ukraine,Senator Wicker Statement on President Biden Planning to Use Presidential Drawdown Authority for Ukraine,2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, today released the following comment in response to reports that the Biden-Harris administration intends to notify Congress that they will tap into the nearly $6 billion remaining in Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) for Ukraine. The authority to transfer weapons to Ukraine would expire October 1, 2024, unless Congress approves an extension.The administration does not plan to accelerate the transfer of weapons to Ukraine, meaning this nearly $6 billion package will be parceled out through the end of calendar year 2025 at current rates. “It is unfortunately typical of this administration to wait until the last possible moment to announce full use of the PDA. Brave Ukrainians are fighting and dying defending their country so that Americans and Europeans won’t have to. President Biden needs to expedite the actual transfer immediately. They need weapons, not words,” Senator Wicker said. Congress granted President Biden extensive use of drawdown authority for two reasons: It enables him as commander-in-chief to deliver weaponry at a much faster rate to Ukraine than most other tools, and it would help the United States fortify its defense industrial base for the long term with replenishment funding. Senator Wicker also highlighted the following facts:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/senator-wicker-statement-on-amphibious-multi-ship-buy-signing,Senator Wicker Statement on Amphibious Multi-Ship Buy Signing,2024-09-24,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement following the formal announcement that the Department of the Navy has contracted Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Miss., to build one America-class and three San Antonio-class amphibious warships through fiscal year 2029: “It is terrific that the Navy has made official what many of us have known for years: the future of American seapower flows through the Mississippi Gulf Coast. I am pleased that a new tranche of amphibious warships will be built by my home state’s skilled shipbuilders,” Senator Wicker said. “I am hopeful that the Department of Defense uses cost-saving multi-ship procurement model for other critical defense programs in the future.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/senator-wicker-crs-are-disastrous-for-national-security-schumer-should-immediately-pass-defense-appropriations-bill,"Senator Wicker: CRs Are Disastrous for National Security, Schumer Should Immediately Pass Defense Appropriations Bill",2024-09-18,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, today in a U.S. Senate floor speech called on Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., to immediately pass the U.S. Senate’s defense appropriations bill. Failing to do so, Senator Wicker said, would mean election year politics are Senator Schumer’s priority instead of bolstering our national security. Senator Wicker took the opportunity to remind his colleagues of the important support the appropriations bill – as well as the National Defense Authorization Act – would provide toward improving military preparedness as the Axis of Aggressors increases its ability to challenge the United States. Senator Wicker added that Senator Schumer’s dereliction of these bills would compel Congress to pass a continuing resolution, which would keep defense investment levels flat rather than meeting the moment. Read the remarks as delivered below or watch them here. Thank you, Mr. President. I want to join my colleagues, both Democrat and Republican, in expressing regret that we don't have the important national security business of this Congress before the Senate right now. And clearly, it's important to do a nomination and a confirmation every few days, and the election is approaching, and of course, there's some show votes. And I think, probably, my side of the aisle has engaged in that sort of thing in years past. But it is such a shame that we face this ‘Axis of Aggressors’ like we've never faced in 50 years, and every national security official – whether a retired four-star, or someone who's no longer in service, but giving us good advice – come – they come – before us, and they say we have never had such a threat from China, from Russia, which is engaged in a shooting war right now, having invaded the sovereign space of a next-door neighbor, from Iran, which is directing the three, at least the three, terrorist groups that are raining so much havoc on Israel, and then a very unstable leadership in North Korea. This ‘Axis of Aggressors’ is signaling that they don't fear an invasion of Taiwan in three short years – they've said it publicly. And while all of that is going on, our leadership – the distinguished majority leader from New York – has not let us bring the appropriation bill to the floor, [he] has not let us bring the authorization bill, which we must pass. We must pass both of these bills every year, the two essential bills that cannot go without being taken care of every fiscal year. And I will say to you, Mr. President, to my colleagues, and to others that are paying attention, this has been bipartisan. Absolutely, Senator Murray is correct. She's unhappy about this, too. But I point the finger to the one person on the face of the Earth that can actually bring a bill to the floor, and that's the majority leader. Senator Reed, the Chairman of the Armed Services Committee, and I have been putting together a manager's package for this year's National Security [Defense] Authorization Act. It would have been much better had we brought the bill to the floor and had 100 amendments winnowed down and worked back and forth together, as we should be doing, to have open vote[s], so the people of the United States could see how senators from Maine to Mississippi, and to the West Coast to the East, stand on important issues affecting the United States military, but we have not been able to do that. But we are working together – Senator Reed and I – on a plan and we've worked on nearly 100 variations to the legislation that was passed months and months ago by the Armed Services Committee to resolve issues of local and state interest, issues involving how quickly we can get our industrial base going to meet the need that, frankly, we're not meeting at the present time, and to get ahead of the game so we can prevent war. So we can have enough strength to have the Reagan-esque ‘peace through strength’ that we enjoyed in the 80s and early 90s. The appropriation bills are just as important, if not more important than the authorization bills. They contain funding increases we need to prevent our Air Force from shrinking. We know that the Chinese Navy is expanding enormously, and our Navy is shrinking – literally shrinking, Mr. President. So, it's regrettable. Here we are we, [a] week-and-a-half to go, before we must break for the election. And the distinguished Majority Leader Senator Schumer has not brought any of this legislation before the full Senate – bills that have been ready since July. And so – and also – I want to commend my colleague from Maine, the distinguished Ranking Member of the Appropriations Committee, for accommodating the Chairman of the Appropriations Committee. We had – I had – prepared today to come down here and support Senator Collins in an effort to have a unanimous consent request to bring the bill to the floor. I mean, what else are we doing? Look at us. But in a matter of comity, and to continue the great working relationship that these two senior senators have had, Senator Collins refrained from that. And so, we're not asking for unanimous consent and requiring someone from the other side to come and object to that. And we'll continue to work. But what is absolutely sure is that the fiscal year will begin in just a few days, and the appropriation for what we need to do at the Pentagon – what new things we need to do – will not be passed. And we will be stuck with last year's priorities. And as a result, at a time when we need to be putting more resources into national security and sending new directions based on the new facts and the new challenges that are out there, at that time, we'll actually be wasting money of the taxpayers by having priorities still extended for another three months – hopefully, it's only three months – rather than putting the resources there that the experts tell us, and that we that we have learned are necessary for the next fiscal year. So, if my colleague from Maine would like to speak on my time, I'll be glad to yield to her. But if not, I'm prepared to yield the floor. And [I] just regret so, so profoundly that our leadership has not allowed us to do the work that the taxpayers expect us to do.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/senator-wicker-leads-armed-services-republicans-in-confirmation-hearing-for-top-transportation-command-u-s-forces-korea-officials,"Senator Wicker Leads Armed Services Republicans in Confirmation Hearing for Top Transportation Command, U.S. Forces Korea Officials",2024-09-17,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, led his colleagues in a confirmation hearing examining the nominees for top posts at U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) and U.S. Forces Korea (USFK). Lieutenant General Randall Reed, nominee for commander of TRANSCOM, and Lieutenant General Xavier T. Brunson, nominee for commander of USFK, testified before the committee. In his opening remarks, Senator Wicker highlighted the challenges in delivering logistics within a contested environment for TRANSCOM, especially as it comes to the Western Pacific. Senator Wicker noted that TRANSCOM has not requested even a single unfunded requirement for three consecutive years, suggesting that the command may not be adequately resourced to deal with urgent challenges. Senator Wicker also took stock of the growing set of threats coming from North Korea, to include nuclear weapons development, the buildup of cruise missiles, and the export of certain munitions from North Korea to Russia and Iran. These actions, Senator Wicker argued, should prompt USFK to explore new ways of deterring Kim Jong Un and reduce his involvement with the “Axis of Aggressors” – potentially through more cooperation with South Korea. Read the remarks as delivered below or watch them here. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Today, the committee is considering nominees for two crucial commands. Lieutenant General Reed, you've been nominated to be Commander, United States Transportation Command. If confirmed, you'll be responsible for executing TRANSCOM’s mission of providing logistical support to combatant commanders around the globe. In your current role as Deputy Commander of Air Mobility Command, you have seen firsthand how logistics are often the determining factor in a fight. We once considered logistics to be a minor factor in operational planning, but now we know better. We understand that logistics are essential to our ability to deter and defeat our adversaries. There is one way to ensure that those logistics capabilities are ready when needed, and that is by properly resourcing the Department. We need our senior military leaders to tell us the hard truths about what they need, even when doing so contradicts the President's budget. And you and I spoke about this when we met person-to-person. That transparency is so important that we made the Unfunded Priority Lists a statutory obligation. This will be your statutory obligation. I'm very troubled, as I told you, that TRANSCOM has not requested a single unfunded requirement for the last three fiscal years. Lieutenant General Reed, if confirmed, I would look to you to begin performing that task – [we’re] not asking you to make anything up. We're just asking you to tell us what we need on contested logistics, particularly in the western Pacific. We need you to tell us what you need to get up to speed. Now, Lieutenant General Brunson, you've been nominated to be Commander of US Forces Korea. My uncle served in Korea. Two generations later, my son has served in Korea. Our alliance with the Republic of Korea dates back to the early days of the Cold War and the Korean War, when the Communist threat from the Soviet bloc and China turned into a hot war on the Korean Peninsula. Our bond with the Republic of Korea remains, even as the threat environment changes. The danger from North Korea continues to increase with each passing day. Kim Jong Un has been developing and building more nuclear weapons, cruise missiles, and other capabilities – all of which pose an increasing threat to the United States and our allies. Moreover, we've seen troubling evidence that North Korean-made weapons have been used against innocent Ukrainians and Israelis. To ensure that we maintain stability on the Peninsula, we need to start thinking about what capabilities the United States and South Korea need. We should also explore ways to reduce Kim Jong Un's ability to arm the ‘Axis of Aggressors.’ General Brunson, I look forward to hearing your thoughts about these troubling trends and how we can mitigate them. Particularly, I look forward to hearing you discuss an issue that the chair raised a few moments ago about what lessons both our friends and our adversaries in the region are learning from what's going on in Ukraine.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/senator-wicker-reunites-with-vladimir-kara-murza-at-the-u-s-capitol,Senator Wicker Reunites with Vladimir Kara-Murza at the U.S. Capitol,2024-09-17,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., reunited today with Vladimir Kara-Murza at the U.S. Capitol. Kara-Murza, a permanent resident of the United States, was released last month as part of the historic prisoner exchange with Russia. He was arrested by Russia in April 2022 for condemning Russia’s war in Ukraine and speaking out against Vladimir Putin. “Vladimir Kara-Murza has been a good friend of mine for years, and I am so glad he is home. He has been a constant advocate for free speech, and welcoming him to the Capitol today, the heart of our democracy, made it even more special. I am thinking of those who have died, including Nemtsov, Navalny, Magnitsky, and many others who will never be reunited with their families, friends, and loved ones. There are many still wrongfully held by Russia. Vladimir will not stop calling for their release, and I will join him in using my voice to help bring them home,” Senator Wicker said. At today’s event, Senator Wicker joined Senator Cardin, D-Md., and other colleagues in welcoming Kara-Murza back to the United States and highlighting the work that remains to free those who are still wrongfully detained in Russia. Previously, Senator Wicker led lawmakers in requests calling for the Biden administration to label Kara-Murza as “unlawfully and wrongfully detained.” The designation would have prioritized Kara-Murza’s case at the State Department and unlocked new tools for negotiators to expedite his release.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/senator-wicker-statement-on-aukus-third-anniversary,Senator Wicker Statement on AUKUS Third Anniversary,2024-09-17,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement regarding the third anniversary of the U.S.-U.K.-Australia trilateral defense agreement known as “AUKUS”: “Producing 1.2 attack submarines per year is grossly insufficient. We are not where we need to be,” Senator Wicker said. “We have reached an inflection point where we can no longer do business as usual when it comes to shipbuilding. The future of AUKUS depends on the U.S. accelerating attack submarine production and maintenance using every available tool.” Earlier this year, after months of pushing the Biden-Harris administration, Senator Wicker helped to secure $3.3 billion in Submarine Industrial Base funding within the National Security Supplemental.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/senator-wicker-statement-on-nuclear-shipbuilding-contract-reform-proposal,Senator Wicker Statement on Nuclear Shipbuilding Contract Reform Proposal,2024-09-16,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to press reports about a new nuclear shipbuilding contracts reform proposal known as Shipyard Accountability and Workforce Support (SAWS), under consideration across the federal government: “The SAWS plan would provide the workforce support necessary to increase ship production rates – all without requiring additional appropriation. While not a silver bullet, this proposal stands to improve the way the Navy does business on critical defense programs,” Senator Wicker said. Senator Wicker also highlighted the following potential benefits of SAWS. The plan would:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/wicker-hyde-smith-highlight-miss-literacy-progress-as-senate-passes-national-resolution/a22e69eb-0af5-4211-9312-0217df7a9546,"Wicker, Hyde-Smith Highlight Miss. Literacy Progress as Senate Passes National Resolution",2024-09-16,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today applauded unanimous Senate passage of a resolution that designates September 2024 as “National Literacy Month” and encourages greater strides to improve literacy for K-12 students nationwide. Wicker and Hyde-Smith cosponsored the resolution and used it to highlight Mississippi’s role as a national leader in literary progress and the “Mississippi Miracle,” in which fourth grade reading test scores in Mississippi have skyrocketed over the past decade. Some states, such as Mississippi, have boosted state National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) scores to record highs using an evidence-based reading strategy known as the “science of reading.” “Literacy lays the foundation for a lifetime of learning, and Mississippi has become a national model for improving these skills,” Senator Wicker said. “This resolution is an important way to recognize the value of student literacy and the strides we have made in reading programs in Mississippi. I look forward to other states following our lead and experiencing the ‘Mississippi Miracle’ for themselves.” “While the educational progress made in Mississippi schools is commendable, we must also acknowledge that there’s more to do to improve literacy and reading proficiency among all Mississippians,” Senator Hyde-Smith said. “This bipartisan resolution highlights the fact that our personal lives, as well as the wellbeing of our nation, rely on a strong, literate American population.” Nationally, a 2022 NAEP report card indicated two-thirds of fourth and eighth graders are unable to read proficiently. Another 2020 study by Gallup in partnership with the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy estimated that low levels of adult literacy could be costing America as much as $2.2 trillion a year. The National Parents Union, Ed Trust, and Educators for Excellence endorsed the Senate support the resolution, which was introduced by U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-R.I.) and HELP Ranking Member Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/senator-wicker-leads-armed-services-republicans-in-confirmation-hearing-for-top-national-guard-southern-command-officials,"Senator Wicker Leads Armed Services Republicans in Confirmation Hearing for Top National Guard, Southern Command Officials",2024-09-12,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, led his colleagues in a confirmation hearing examining the nominees for top posts in the U.S. National Guard Bureau (NGB) and U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM). In his opening remarks, Senator Wicker highlighted the emergence of significant great power competition within SOUTHCOM, citing examples such as China’s development of listening posts in Cuba and the presence of a Russian submarine in the Caribbean earlier this year. Senator Wicker also considered ways that the Department of Defense (DOD) can strengthen U.S. influence in response. Options for improving the U.S. position in SOUTHCOM, Senator Wicker said, include leveraging the DOD’s Office of Strategic Capital. Senator Wicker noted the ongoing tension between the National Guard’s federal and state missions. Senator Wicker encouraged the nominee to balance important local priorities for the Guard with the overarching mission of maintaining military readiness and supporting the active-duty force in the event of a conflict. Vice Admiral Alvin Holsey, nominee for commander of SOUTHCOM, and Lieutenant General Steven S. Nordhaus, nominee for chief of the National Guard Bureau, testified before the committee. Read the remarks as delivered below or watch them here. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I want to thank our witnesses for being here today. You've already recognized family members, but I do want to congratulate Vice Admiral Holsey on persuading a young lady from Claiborne County to be his bride some years ago. Admiral Holsey, as the Deputy Commander at SOUTHCOM, you know as well as anyone how effective the Chinese Communist Party has become in the region. The CCP has been engaging in predatory economic and diplomatic practices in the region, threatening our interests there. Our neighbors to the south rightly seek economic security for their people. The Chinese exploit this goal by aggressively lobbying leaders across the hemisphere, pedaling dubious promises of infrastructure [and] local job creation. Instead of honoring their promises, they often follow through with predatory practices. The CCP leaves those nations worse off by constructing infrastructure exclusively with Chinese labor and by creating facilities that are either poorly built or incomplete. Simultaneously, through its state-owned enterprises, China sets conditions to enhance its military presence, gather intelligence, and attempt to limit U.S. access and influence. This July, the Center for Strategic and International Studies published a report in which they outlined no fewer than four separate Chinese electronic surveillance operations on the island of Cuba. These operations may even be able to collect signals intelligence well into U.S. territory. This summer, the Russian Navy sent warships and submarines to exercise with the Cuban Navy. In other words, great power competition is happening right here in the Americas. Now is the time for us to enhance our relationships and economic investment with our southern neighbors, yet our current approach is failing. SOUTHCOM has continued to rely primarily on security assistance and cooperation, which is prohibitively expensive. It's time to use capital investments to achieve national security goals in this theater. Traditionally, we have not thought of investment strategy as a tool in DOD’s belt, but it can be highly effective when properly employed, and you and I have discussed this. We should use it more frequently to promote US influence and defense interests, and SOUTHCOM can lead the way. It should work with entities such as the DOD’s Office of Strategic Capital, the Development Finance Corporation, and the Export-Import Bank. Their collaboration could pair U.S. private capital with strategic investment opportunities in the region, yielding economic and national security benefits for the United States. Admiral Holsey, I look forward to hearing how you intend to change SOUTCOM’s approach, so it can do a better job of countering the malign influence of our adversaries and expand U.S. credibility in the region. Now, Lieutenant General Nordhaus, if confirmed to serve as the chief of the National Guard Bureau, you will be the principal adviser to the Secretary of Defense on National Guard matters. The National Guard experiences constant tension between its federal and state missions. The federal government provides the vast majority of funds for the National Guard, and it's entitled to set the terms and conditions for how those resources are used. In addition, the National Guard performs vital tasks for local communities, but these services cannot come at the expense of the Guard's military readiness responsibilities. If confirmed, perhaps your most challenging task will be striking a balance between these often competing federal and state missions. These competing priorities have led to avoidable conflict only recently. The National Guard cannot be the solution to every local labor shortage. In two extreme examples, some governors have used the National Guard to drive school buses and staff nursing homes. These decisions erode military readiness, and they improperly take servicemembers away from their families and their civilian employment – not to mention their statutory mission. If confirmed, I expect you to use your influence to ensure the National Guard personnel are properly focused on readiness and used appropriately to support the Department of Defense and our nation in times of emergency or conflict. Finally, I would like to congratulate the 155th Armored Brigade Combat Team of the Mississippi Army National Guard on a successful deployment. They took command of the Joint Multinational Training Group Ukraine, located in Germany, and had responsibility for training and mentoring the Ukrainian Armed Forces. This mission remains critical to our national security and I'm proud of the Mississippi National Guard for conducting such an important role – and I felt I should mention it this morning.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/senator-wicker-honors-rodney-mast-as-angel-in-adoption,Senator Wicker Honors Rodney Mast as “Angel in Adoption”,2024-09-11,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., honored Rodney Mast for being a recipient of the 2024 “Angels in Adoption” award for his commitment to helping orphans and refugees find families. Senator Wicker nominated Rodney for the award. “Rodney Mast’s dedication to helping these children is remarkable and is a testament to his character as a human being. He understands how important it is to give every child a home with a loving family. I also commend him for adopting children himself. He was the perfect candidate for this award,” Senator Wicker said. Rodney is a Mississippi native. He has spent the past 26 years as a farmer in Columbus, Mississippi. In 2023, he took over as President of Compassion Plus Hope, a nonprofit organization that provides charitable assistance, finances, and practical aid for humanitarian needs to improve the current conditions and future of the poor, distressed, or underprivileged. Rodney traveled to Poland with the International Host Connection, a volunteer organization, working with Ukrainian orphans who were displaced because of the war. He and his wife eventually adopted three young orphans from Ukraine (who are brothers). The Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute, which sponsors the “Angels in Adoption” program, is a nonprofit organization that works to raise awareness about the needs of children without families and to remove policy barriers that hinder children from knowing the love and support a family provides.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/senator-wicker-honors-james-earl-jones,Senator Wicker Honors James Earl Jones,2024-09-10,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., released the following statement honoring James Earl Jones, who passed away Monday at the age of 93. “Mississippi has lost a beloved son, and the world has lost an extraordinary talent. From Arkabutla to immortality, James Earl Jones, R.I.P. We'll remember your voice and your heart,” Senator Wicker said.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/senator-wicker-statement-on-congressional-afghanistan-withdrawal-report,Senator Wicker Statement on Congressional Afghanistan Withdrawal Report,2024-09-10,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, today released the following statement in response to the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s report on the Biden-Harris administration’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan: “Today we honor 13 brave Americans who died needlessly in one of the most humiliating foreign policy debacles in decades. The committee report simply confirms the outrageous details of the Afghanistan withdrawal: The Biden-Harris administration turned a bad idea into a historic debacle, leaving valuable American weaponry for our enemies to use and abandoning thousands of our long-time Afghan friends,” Senator Wicker said.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/9/senator-wicker-announces-over-23-million-in-new-airport-grants,Senator Wicker Announces Over $23 Million in New Airport Grants,2024-09-06,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., released the following statement after four airports in Mississippi were awarded $23,063,644 for infrastructure improvements. The grants will be used to rehabilitate taxiways and taxiway lighting, construct and extend safety areas, and acquire new land for development. “Investment continues to roll into our airports. Every dollar will be used to create a better experience for Mississippians and those who visit,” Senator Wicker said. The grants will support:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/8/federal-broadband-program-clears-significant-hurdle,Federal Broadband Program Clears Significant Hurdle,2024-08-29,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"TUPELO – The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved Mississippi’s Initial Proposal for the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. BEAD is a federal grant program that aims to get all Americans online by funding partnerships between states, communities, and stakeholders to build infrastructure and increase adoption of high-speed internet. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., was the Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee when the infrastructure bill was signed into law, creating the BEAD Program. His role as a key negotiator helped deliver the $1.2 billion in federal funding that has made this program possible. This approval of the state’s proposal puts Mississippi’s counties one step closer to unlocking the BEAD Program funds, installing broadband, and connecting many underserved Mississippians to high-speed internet. Senator Wicker has worked for years to ensure that Mississippi’s broadband needs were accurately reflected in national coverage maps that are used to distribute federal funding for broadband. Senator Wicker released the following statement: “We improved the maps, secured the record federal funding, and created this program. The fight to increase broadband access in Mississippi’s communities has been worth it,” Senator Wicker said. “This update is another step in the right direction and builds on our success. I will continue working with local, state, and federal officials to keep the BEAD Program on track.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/8/senator-wicker-highlights-economic-importance-of-amtrak-returning-to-the-gulf-coast,Senator Wicker Highlights Economic Importance of Amtrak Returning to the Gulf Coast,2024-08-27,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"GULFPORT – Today, U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., highlighted the economic importance of Amtrak services returning to the Gulf Coast region. He was joined in downtown Gulfport by Mayor Billy Hewes and local stakeholders. They visited the future Gulfport Amtrak stop and a number of local businesses that are expected to benefit. Senator Wicker has used his position as Chairman and Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee to champion the return of passenger rail to the Gulf Coast. He expressed appreciation to local and state government officials and to the freight rail companies, CSX and Norfolk Southern. After years of administrative delays and litigation, an agreement was reached to return Amtrak services to the Mississippi Gulf Coast for the first time since Hurricane Katrina. Scheduled to resume in 2025, the services are expected to provide economic growth opportunities, boost tourism, and reduce traffic on our roadways. Two trains will run roundtrip from New Orleans to Mobile with stops in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/8/senator-wicker-joins-national-security-shows-to-discuss-peace-through-strength-plan,Senator Wicker Joins National Security Shows to Discuss “Peace Through Strength” Plan,2024-08-27,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, participated in his first podcast appearances since releasing his defense spending blueprint in May, the “21st Century Peace Through Strength: A Generational Investment in the U.S. Military” report. Senator Wicker joined former spokeswoman for the Secretary of State, Morgan Ortagus, on her SiriusXM show, where he spoke about ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the Biden-Harris administration’s failed foreign policy, and his “Peace Through Strength” report. Senator Wicker also had an in-depth discussion with Hudson Institute senior fellow Aaron Maclean on the “School of War” podcast. Below are key excerpts from Senator Wicker’s appearance on the “Morgan Ortagus Show.” A clip of the interview is available for listening here. On Houthi terrorism in the Red Sea and the Middle East Crisis: “One thing we need to do is realize – and go ahead and admit – that when the Houthis, or Hamas, or Hezbollah attacks us or our allies, this is Iran using proxies to attack us.” “So, there’s no question about it. It is the Iranian regime...that is attacking the United States...The Ayatollah needs to understand that we know this...it’s not just a rabble of some terrorist group. They are absolutely sponsored and directed by Iran.” Below are key excerpts from Senator Wicker’s appearance on “School of War,” which is available for listening here. On the importance of a multi-theater military: “There’s no question that we’re in a dangerous time...We are not prepared for the threat that comes from what I call in my report, the “Axis of Aggressors.” And of course, chief among them [is] Communist China with Xi Jinping, having told his congress that they need to be ready to retake Taiwan by 2027. Well, that’s right around the corner...then you add to that Russia with their illegal war crimes of invading their neighbor, something that threatens the 70-year old rules-based Europe, and Iran, and all of their three proxies – at least their three proxies, which are raining havoc, and doing so even as we speak...and add to that a person who is probably not very well balanced, and that’s the dictator of North Korea. And so, it’s a four-pronged axis of aggressors that we simply are not prepared to fight...it’s wrong to take these conflicts – or potential areas of conflict – separately.” On defense acquisition reform: “More money in itself is certainly not the solution. The solution is more weapons and more advanced weaponry and more ammunition...one thing that we are insisting on now – and it’s something that has worked in the past but should work better if we do it on scale – is multi-year contracts. We know that we’re going to need more than one...amphibious troop-transporting ship, we know we’re going to need more and more of those. And so, why not do a multi-year contract, a block buy...and it can save us a lot of money...but also, we’ve let our manufacturing plants shrink to a level that they’re not capable of giving us what we need. We need more shipyards. We just don’t have the capacity that China has.” On shipbuilding: “You don’t ever get anything done if you don’t get started. And one of the arguments that I’ve had over the past year is that ‘there’s no reason to authorize more ships if we don’t have more shipyards.’ Well, let’s get some more shipyards and get going on it...And to their credit, after I really pressed the administration over this past year to add to our shipbuilding industrial base, they agreed to add to the supplemental bill $3.4 billion.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/8/senator-wicker-statement-on-amphibious-multi-ship-buy,Senator Wicker Statement on Amphibious Multi-Ship Buy,2024-08-15,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro recently informed Congressional leaders that the Navy will pursue a multi-ship buy for four America-class and San Antonio-class amphibious warships through FY29, potentially saving the taxpayer nearly $1 billion through additional efficiencies. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response: “Today is a great day for American shipbuilding and our Navy’s ability to deter China in the years ahead,” Senator Wicker said. “As I have long noted – including in my recent “Peace Through Strength” report – the multi-ship buy of warships is a cost-effective way to provide stability for the industrial base on key shipbuilding programs. I look forward to seeing these contracts through to their execution, and I believe that additional benefits could be obtained if we increase funding for material procurement in bulk.” Specifically, the block-buy would encompass the following ships:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/8/senator-wicker-statement-on-senate-appropriations-committee-defense-markup,Senator Wicker Statement on Senate Appropriations Committee Defense Markup,2024-08-07,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Last week, the Senate Appropriations Committee concluded its markup of the Defense subcommittee’s (SAC-D) Fiscal Year 2025 defense funding bill, which provides funding for the Department of Defense. The bill, when combined with the Military Construction and Energy and Water bills, provides $21 billion for much needed weaponry ammunition, and equipment for our troops. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, previously secured a $25 billion funding authorization increase on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Senator Wicker released the following statement about the Appropriations Committee’s markup: “The Senate Appropriations Committee has done important work to revitalize our national defense by making a necessary down payment on our military preparedness. Overall, their bill is a big step toward rectifying the Pentagon’s lack of focus on China,” Senator Wicker said. “This effort from my colleagues reaffirms the conversation I have started about returning to the ‘peace through strength’ defense policies that this dangerous moment requires.” Senator Wicker also lauded several areas where the defense appropriations bill reinforces funding strategies in the NDAA: Prevents shrinking Air Force: The defense appropriations bill provides money to keep 32 F-22 and 26 F-15E fighter aircraft flying, produce six more F-15EX fighters, and buy spare parts so that hundreds of aircraft can stay ready for operations. Prevents shrinking Navy: The defense appropriations bill finishes the purchase of an extra destroyer, provides forward financing to complete an amphibious ship multi-buy, and primes the pump for an additional attack submarine. Additionally, the bill invests heavily in the shipbuilding industrial base and pays for the construction of numerous additional logistics ships. The bill reverses the administration’s disastrous decision to cancel the SM-3 Block IB interceptor, accelerates new Patriot launchers, and adds funding for the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile, Mk48 torpedoes, and the Precision Strike Missile. Munitions: The defense appropriations bill provides $500 million more for the Defense Production Act, which the administration failed to fund sufficiently. It also funds $500 million in additional critical minerals purchases through the National Defense Stockpile Transaction Fund. Both efforts are absolutely key to rebuilding the Arsenal of Democracy. INDOPACOM Unfunded Priority List: The defense appropriations bill again funds the highest priorities of our commander in the Pacific: $181 million to accelerate the crucial Guam Defense System, $123 million for the Joint Fires Network for command and control, and $651 million for critical military exercises in the western Pacific. Nuclear Modernization: The defense appropriations bill, alongside the Energy and Water bill, supports strong bipartisan efforts to modernize and adapt our nation’s nuclear deterrent to meet rapidly growing strategic threats from China, Russia, and North Korea by fully funding critical efforts such as the Sentinel Intercontinental Ballistic Missile ($3.9 billion) and the Nuclear Sea-Launched Cruise Missile ($252 million).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/8/a-remaining-hurdle-cleared-to-return-amtrak-services-to-the-mississippi-gulf-coast/92c49870-f018-4f19-b2dd-a49af5d4f7f7,A Remaining Hurdle Cleared to Return Amtrak Services to the Mississippi Gulf Coast,2024-08-06,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"MISSISSIPPI – An agreement has finally been reached to return Amtrak services to the Mississippi Gulf Coast for the first time since Hurricane Katrina. Two trains will run roundtrip from New Orleans to Mobile with stops in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., released the following statement: “Restoring Amtrak services to the Mississippi Gulf Coast has been a years-long effort, and one of many to help the region recover from Hurricane Katrina. This will reconnect the Gulf Coast states and provide an alternative way to move people safely, which could also reduce traffic on our roadways. More travel options will increase tourism and provide economic opportunities to the Mississippi communities along the route. I am glad to see this investment is finally reaching the finish line,” Senator Wicker said. Senator Wicker has been a strong advocate for restoring passenger rail service to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, bringing together federal, state, and local officials to support investments along the southern rail corridor and to address regulatory concerns with restoring passenger service.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/8/senators-wicker-hyde-smith-support-an-even-playing-field-for-women-in-sports,"Senators Wicker, Hyde-Smith Support an Even Playing Field for Women in Sports",2024-08-06,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., and colleagues have asked National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) President Charlie Baker to adopt policies that protect women’s sports. Specifically, the senators have asked Baker to update the associate’s student-athlete participation policy to require that only biological women can participate in NCAA women’s sports. Senator Wicker and Hyde-Smith are also cosponsors of the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act of 2023, which would preserve Title IX protections for female athletes and ensure fair, safe competition in women’s sports across the country. In addition, Senator Hyde-Smith introduced and Senator Wicker cosponsored a Congressional Review Act resolution of disapproval to overturn the Biden administration’s rewrite of Title IX. The Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, Concerned Women for America, Heritage Action, and Independent Council on Women’s Sports have endorsed the letter. The letter is led by U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/8/senator wicker celebrates groundbreaking for improved broadband access in bolivar county,Senator Wicker Celebrates Groundbreaking for Improved Broadband Access in Bolivar County,2024-08-05,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"MOUND BAYOU – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., joined state and local officials at a groundbreaking in Mound Bayou for a project that will provide high-speed internet to hundreds of people and multiple businesses and agricultural facilities in Bolivar County. The project is funded by a $3,520,100 United States Department of Agriculture ReConnect Grant that will install 30 miles of fiber and ultimately connect 300 locations. Senator Wicker helped negotiate and pass the law to make this grant possible. In total, that law has brought in over a billion dollars to increase broadband access in rural parts of Mississippi. Senator Wicker released the following statement:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/8/senator-wicker-designates-august-as-national-catfish-month,Senator Wicker Designates August as National Catfish Month,2024-08-05,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., led colleagues in introducing a resolution to designate August 2024 as National Catfish Month. Mississippi produces more than half of the farm raised catfish in the United States. “Mississippi’s catfish farmers put a safe and quality product on America’s dinner tables. This effort is a small way we can recognize their local and national economic impact,” Senator Wicker said. Senator Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., and ten other senators from states that also produce catfish joined in this effort.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/8/mississippi-s-water-infrastructure-priorities-advance-in-biennial-congressional-legislation,Mississippi’s Water Infrastructure Priorities Advance in Biennial Congressional Legislation,2024-08-02,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Bill directs over $142 million to Mississippi for water infrastructure improvements WASHINGTON – Members of Congress have been negotiating biennial legislation, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), which directs water-related projects across the country. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., has a unique position to advocate for and advance Mississippi’s water infrastructure priorities as a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works which negotiates and drafts the bill. The committee recently advanced the legislation, and it passed the full U.S. Senate. If it is signed into law, waterway, port, river system, dredging, and flood protection projects across Mississippi would see improvements. Senator Wicker released the following statement. “This bill gives us the opportunity to provide clean drinking water, wastewater, and flood control solutions for communities across Mississippi. I will continue using my position on the Environment and Public Works Committee to deliver the water infrastructure solutions that our state needs,” Senator Wicker said. Among other policies that would benefit Mississippi, WRDA would: Authorize Section 219 environmental infrastructure in four Mississippi communities. Those funds and communities include: $7 million for a new water tank and wastewater collection system for Byram. $7 million for stormwater and drainage improvements for Hancock County. $7 million for wastewater treatment system improvements for Madison. $7 million for drinking water and wastewater improvements for Pearl. Increase authorized funding for Section 219 environmental infrastructure by $14 million in five Mississippi communities for: a comprehensive stormwater management program for Rankin County. a regional wastewater program for DeSoto County. wastewater infrastructure improvements for Jackson. a comprehensive water management program for Madison County. the Meridian Multi-phase Evaluation and Rehabilitation Water Program for Meridian. Authorize $44 million in federal funding for flood risk management and aquatic ecosystem restoration in North DeSoto County. In recent years, flooding has damaged businesses, residential homes, and other infrastructure in Desoto County. Address dredging needs on the Tenn-Tom to ensure continued navigation at locks and dams. Decrease the non-federal cost share from 20 to 10 percent for economically distressed communities. The bill also allows the Assistant Secretary for Civil Works to further adjust the cost share based on a community’s ability to pay. Expedite competition of the Hatchie-Loosahatchie River floodplain management study. Flooding from the Hatchie River has impacted roads, farmers, private landowners, and bridges. It also has caused several levee breaks. Establish the Levee System Owners Advisory Board, which would advise on activities and actions by the Corps to improve flood risk management and improve cooperation and communication between the Corps and the Federal levee system owner-operators. Require a report on the existing Levee Safety Guidelines to ensure they remain voluntary. Authorize the Corps to conduct research with Mississippi State University on technology that could be used in water resources development infrastructure, analyses of the environment before and after a natural disaster, and geospatial data collection.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/8/senator-wicker-statement-on-vietnam-denied-u-s-market-status,Senator Wicker Statement on Vietnam Denied U.S. Market Status,2024-08-02,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"TUPELO –The U.S. Commerce Department has announced that Vietnam will remain classified as a “non-market economy” despite their efforts to be removed from the list. Vietnam is one of 12 economies labeled by our federal government as “non-market” including Russia, China, and North Korea. Denying this request makes sure Mississippi’s agriculture producers and exporters are on a level playing field with foreign competitors. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., released the following statement: “This is the right decision. I am proud to support Mississippi’s agriculture producers and exporters, such as catfish farmers, and will continue to make sure they will not be undercut by substandard, unhealthy foreign products flooding the U.S. market,” Senator Wicker said. Currently, Vietnam is illegally dumping certain agriculture products, such as shrimp and seafood into U.S. markets. Their products do not undergo rigorous food safety inspections that already exist for other imports like beef, pork, and poultry. Additionally, when Vietnam dumps their agriculture products in our markets, the costs are lower which put our domestic producers at an economic disadvantage. Under their current market status, we have an easier pathway to trade enforcement.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/8/two-of-senator-wicker-s-bills-advance-to-the-u-s-senate-floor,Two of Senator Wicker’s Bills Advance to the U.S. Senate Floor,2024-08-02,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate Commerce Committee has agreed to advance two pieces of legislation, sponsored by U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., to the next step of the legislative process. A Government Accountability Office (GAO) report has found that federal broadband efforts are not coordinated. Right now, there are over 100 available broadband funding programs that are administered by 15 different federal agencies. Senator Wicker’s bill, the PLAN for Broadband Act, would require the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to develop a national strategy that takes the available broadband funding programs and streamline their efforts to increase efficiency. The GAO report recommended the creation of a plan so that the programs can be better utilized. “If the existing mismanagement of available resources continues, the digital divide will never be closed. I am glad to see my bill is advancing because it will improve the broken system and connect more Americans to the internet. It is essential for the federal government to streamline communication and stop delaying the delivery of this important service,” Senator Wicker said. Despite Senator Wicker’s objections, Democrats on the committee also used the broadband legislation as an opportunity to replenish the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) with $7 billion without reforms or a way to pay for the funding. “Without reforms, there is no guarantee this program will continue providing internet access to those who need it the most. ACP needs significant work and is not sustainable in its current state. We must have a serious conversation about its future,” Senator Wicker said. Senator Wicker’s Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act is also moving through the process. This bill would standardize the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Security Clearance Process which is used by transportation workers nationwide. Although TSA conducts a Security Threat Assessment for each program, applicants have to submit duplicative background check paperwork and fees. The bill would put the Transportation Worker Identification Credential and HAZMAT Endorsement Threat Assessment programs into one application process.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/8/senator-wicker-announces-another-batch-of-airport-grant-funding,Senator Wicker Announces Another Batch of Airport Grant Funding,2024-08-01,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., released the following statement after 17 airports received $5,392,774 million in total to upgrade their hangars, perimeter fencing and gates, fuel facilities, and runway lighting. A few airports received funding to update their master plans. This tranche of funding comes after Mississippi’s airports received over $8 million in a previous allotment. “It’s not a bad day when I can say Mississippi has received $13 million in a week to upgrade airports. Every dollar will better position our state,” Senator Wicker said. The grants will support: Columbus-Lowndes County Airport Received $448,000 to construct a new 9,600 square foot sponsor-owned hangar for aircraft storage. Stennis International Airport Received $426,959 to acquire 1.9 acres of land for future eligible aeronautical development. Panola County Airport Received $290,505 to reconstruct the existing runway lighting system. Cleveland Municipal Airport Received $294,000 to construct a new 12,000 square foot sponsor-owned hangar for aircraft storage/maintenance. James H Easom Field Airport Received $107,042 to construct a new 8,156 square foot nested T-hangar for aircraft storage, maintenance, or service. Fletcher Field Airport Received $357,600 to rehabilitate 5,404 feet of the existing runway to maintain the structural integrity of the pavement and to minimize foreign object debris. Macon Municipal Airport Received $40,245 to construct a new 5,700 square foot T-hangar building for aircraft storage, maintenance, or service. Philadelphia Municipal Airport Received $41,790 to update the existing airport master plan study. Monroe County Airport Received $51,875 to install 1,100 feet of perimeter fencing. Greenville Mid-Delta Airport Received $479,039 to update the existing airport master plan study. McComb/Pike County/John E Lewis Field Received $104,400 to rehabilitate the existing runway pavement markings. Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport Received $179,730 to improve runway safety areas. Grenada Municipal Airport Received $395,370 to construct a new fuel facility by adding a single self-service pump and concrete apron. Golden Triangle Regional Airport Received $1,621,119 to reseal 11,718 square yards of the existing north general aviation apron pavement, construct new airfield drainage ditches to mitigate erosion, install 16 gates to enhance safety, and reseal existing runway and taxiway pavement. Magee Municipal Airport Received $80,100 to install 450 feet of perimeter fencing and gate. Louisville/Winston County Airport Received $145,000 to expand the existing apron by adding 6,900 square yards. New Albany/Union County Airport Received $330,000 to install 5,165 feet of perimeter fencing and gates. The Federal Aviation Administration will award the grants.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/8/senator-wicker-statement-on-prisoner-exchange,Senator Wicker Statement on Prisoner Exchange,2024-08-01,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., released the following statement: “I am encouraged by this news. It is great to see Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich, and Alsu Kurmasheva, as well as my good friend, Vladimir Kara-Murza, freed. But there are other Americans, including Marc Fogel, and brave Russians, who remain in Russian captivity. They all have demonstrated incredible courage during some of their darkest hours. “This exchange speaks volumes about what our two countries value. Vladimir Putin is getting back a crew of thugs, murderers, and low-life criminals. The United States is welcoming home journalists, voices for democracy, and former service members. “I applaud our allies, particularly Germany and Turkey, for their efforts on this deal. Our work is not finished, and I will continue using my voice to bring others home.” Senator Wicker recently led lawmakers in a bipartisan, bicameral request calling again for the Biden administration to label Vladimir Kara-Murza as “unlawfully and wrongfully detained.” In 2022, Kara-Murza was put in prison after speaking out against President Vladimir Putin. He was later sentenced to 25 years in jail. The designation would have prioritized Kara-Murza’s case at the State Department and unlocked new tools for negotiators to expedite his release.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/7/senators-wicker-manchin-lead-resolution-to-recognize-gold-star-children,"Senators Wicker, Manchin Lead Resolution to Recognize Gold Star Children",2024-07-31,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Joe Manchin, I-W.Va., have introduced a resolution designating August 1, 2024, as Gold Star Children’s Day to recognize the sacrifices of the children of fallen service members. In just over a century since America’s Gold Star tradition began, nearly 5,500 Mississippians have made the ultimate sacrifice in a time frame ranging from World War I to the present day, resulting in roughly 10,000 Gold Star Children during that 100-year history. “The sons and daughters of our fallen service members carry on their legacy. Recognizing them with this special day is the least we can do to honor the lifelong sacrifice they made,” Senator Wicker said.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/7/senator-wicker-in-armed-services-hearing-defense-strategy-report-reaffirms-immediate-need-for-increased-defense-investment,Senator Wicker in Armed Services Hearing: Defense Strategy Report Reaffirms Immediate Need for Increased Defense Investment,2024-07-30,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, led his colleagues in a hearing examining a report from a group of congressionally-appointed defense experts studying U.S. deterrence and military power. The report suggests substantial increases in defense spending are necessary and notes that the United States faces the most serious set of threats since 1945. Hon. Jane M. Harman, chairwoman of the Commission on the National Defense Strategy and former Congresswoman from California, and Hon. Eric Edelman, former Under Secretary of Defense for Policy and vice chairman of the Commission, testified before the committee. In his opening remarks, Senator Wicker spoke to several key themes, to include: The new ‘axis of aggressors,’ Iran, North Korea, China, and Russia, growing stronger. The need to increase defense spending to five percent of gross domestic product. The inability of current U.S. force planning to meet the stated standards of U.S. strategy. Deficit in understanding from the American public of the threats posed by great power rivals. Read the remarks as delivered below or watch them here. Mr. Chairman, I want to congratulate you on a very fine opening statement, which I fully subscribe to. We have two very distinguished witnesses today, and this may possibly be the most important hearing we will have this year. But I have to say, I very much appreciate the service of Representative Harman and Ambassador Edelman. Let's go back six years. This committee began hearing – holding hearings on the first National Defense Strategy Commission report, which reviewed the 2018 National Defense Strategy. The first NDS report was important, [it] helped us make significant bipartisan progress toward improving our national defense. We lost Chairman Jim Inhofe just a few weeks ago. Many of us will remember that he in particular admired that report. He would often hold the report up and wave it around at hearings. His enthusiasm proved that the NDS served as a guiding light for him, and it prompted all of us to consider the report's recommendations. The global security environment has worsened much faster than we expected back in 2018. The first line of a new 2024 NDS Commission report summarizes the situation in which we find ourselves. I will quote that line: “the threats the United States faces are the most serious and most challenging the nation has encountered since 1945 and include the potential for near-term major war.” A dramatic and forceful statement. It turns out that the commission believes that we are not at all where we need to be. And I think members of the committee understand this. We understand clearly there's no time to waste. The commission report notes that our military capacity and capabilities are insufficient to meet the current requirements at acceptable risk. The document details the way in which the 2022 National Defense Strategy – an assessment completed just two years ago – did not adequately account for the threat of simultaneous and increasingly coordinated military action by our four primary adversaries, a group which I have come to call the 'axis of aggressors.’ The report correctly notes that with the possible exception of the Department of Defense, the U.S. government is not acting with alacrity or making so-called ‘whole-of-government' strategies more than simply a buzzword. It aptly describes our hollow, brittle defense industrial base, and painfully byzantine bureaucratic process. The report also finds that we cannot fix these problems without increasing defense spending. Thankfully, this committee has added a $25 billion topline increase for the Fiscal Year 2025 NDAA. Even that increase, a 3.8 percent nominal addition, would fall short of the commission's recommendation – fall well short. The report endorses a three to five percent real increase this year with inflation running above two percent. I appreciate the commission's recommendation that national security spending must return to late Cold War levels, a goal which matches my plan to spend five percent eventually of GDP on defense. That level of investment would be temporary. It would be a down payment on the rebuilding of our national defense tools for a generation – tools that, if sharpened, can reduce the risk that our adversaries will use military force against U.S. interests – peace through strength. The 2018 and 2022 defense strategies both recommended a vague force sizing requirement. The mandate called for the US military to have sufficient forces to defeat either China or Russia in a major conflict, while simultaneously deterring other adversaries. That force sizing construct failed to provide a useful measuring stick by which to determine the ideal size and capability of the U.S. military. I would appreciate the commissioners expanding upon their new force sizing construct, which proposes that we be able to lead coalitions that can defeat both China and Russia, while continuing to maintain deterrence elsewhere. I would also like our witnesses to explain a claim they make in the report: the document contends that the American public does not appreciate the threat environment and therefore, does not understand why a strong defense is necessary to ensure a bright future for our country – very perceptive. This is a perspective that echoes concerns expressed by the recent Congressional Strategic Posture Commission. I'm of the opinion that this is largely the fault of the U.S. government – the executive and legislative branches alike – for failing to make the case to the American people. Mr. Chairman, I could go on and on. I would simply say that I appreciate a great deal of the commission report. I'm grateful for the work of all eight bipartisan commissioners and their staff – thank you for calling each and every name of the commissioners. And I hope their labor can help guide us as we write a new National Defense Strategy – and the legislation that will follow – to allow us to regain our military edge and avoid wars in the years to come.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/7/senator-wicker-celebrates-nearly-7-million-for-airports-across-mississippi,Senator Wicker Celebrates Over $8 Million for Airports Across Mississippi,2024-07-29,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., released the following statement after 18 airports received over $8 million in total to upgrade their runways, taxiways, and lighting, and purchase new safety and navigation equipment. “Safety and system upgrades will provide a better experience for travelers and support economic growth opportunities in Mississippi. These investments will pay dividends for our state’s future,” Senator Wicker said. The grants will support: Belzoni Municipal Airport in Belzoni Received $365,573 to construct a new 4,000 square foot sponsor-owned 2-bay hangar for aircraft storage. Panola County Airport in Batesville Received $345,987 to fund a portion of a project that reconstructs the existing runway lighting system. Hattiesburg/Laurel Regional Airport in Moselle Received $607,150 to acquire a new Foreign Object Debris sweeper to enhance safety. This project also reconstructs the existing lighting on the apron. Tupelo Regional Airport in Tupelo Received $535,775 to rehabilitate the existing south general aviation apron pavement. Yazoo County Airport in Yazoo City Received $308,393 to reseal/resurface the existing runway pavement and joints. Tishomingo County Airport in Belmont Received $234,812 to install precision approach path indicator system. Vicksburg Municipal Airport in the City of Vicksburg Received $135,108 to reseal/resurface the existing terminal apron pavement and joints. Ruleville-Drew Airport in Drew Received $84,000 to acquire and install a new wind cone and segmented circle navigational aids to provide pilots with critical airfield information. Kosciusko-Attala County Airport in Kosciusko Received $91,393 to update the existing airport master plan study. New Albany/Union County Airport in New Albany Received $113,410 to install perimeter fencing/gates. Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport in Gulfport Received $2,989,602 to construct a new general aviation apron. Okolona Municipal/Richard Stovall Field in the City of Okolona Received $200,000 to reseal the existing runway pavement. Ripley Airport in Ripley Received $109,354 to rehabilitate the existing runway pavement markings. University-Oxford Airport in Oxford Received $91,430 to rehabilitate the existing terminal access road drainage. Dean Griffin Memorial Airport in Wiggins Received $352,768 to replace the existing airport rotating beacon, reconstruct the existing lighting, acquire and install a new wind cone and segmented circle navigational, and install a precision approach path indicator system. Indianola Municipal Airport in Indianola Received $91,393 to reseal the existing parallel taxiway pavement cracks and joints. Fletcher Field Airport in Clarksdale Received $91,393 to rehabilitate the existing runway to maintain the structural integrity of the pavement and to minimize foreign object debris. Columbus-Lowndes County Airport Received $1,860,805 to rehabilitate the existing runway pavement. The Federal Aviation Administration will award the grants.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/7/senator-wicker-urges-support-of-israel,Senator Wicker Urges Support of Israel,2024-07-25,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, spoke on the Senate floor, urging the Biden administration to support our ally Israel. Senator Wicker also highlighted how Iran’s proxies perpetrated the October 7th attack. Senator Wicker further called out congressional Democrats and the Biden administration for their failure to welcome Prime Minister Netanyahu and signal a strong commitment to Israel’s defense. Senator Wicker’s remarks followed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s joint address to Congress. Read the remarks as delivered below or watch them here. Thank you very much, Madam President. We stand here today having had the opportunity, in a joint session of Congress, to hear one of the most powerful and profound and significant addresses that has ever been made to a joint session of Congress. We have a few people listening in right now. I notice we have a number of our pages on the floor. Madam President, I'm glad that our young people, our rising seniors in high school who work for us, were able to be there and to be here in Washington, in this Capitol, and see and listen to this magnificent speech today by Benjamin Netanyahu the Prime Minister of the state of Israel – our steadfast ally. The only democracy in that section of the world. And I will say, I doubt if we will very often see remarks that were as powerful and as important. Israel has been our steadfast ally for over seven decades. It was a Democratic president, Harry Truman, postwar that put his administration behind the recognition of the Jewish state in Palestine as Israel. And we became one of the earliest countries to recognize Israel. That has stood for over seven decades. The recognition by the United States, on a bipartisan basis, has recognized an important fact: that the Jewish people are certainly not colonialists in the Holy Land. The place where Israel exists now is the place where Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and Esau were born and lived in the era 5,000 years ago. To say that the Jewish people are colonialists in Israel is the big lie. The big lie is something that our enemies have used down through the years. You say something so unbelievable and so unimaginable that [if] you say it long enough, and people will start to believe it. The Jewish people are no colonialists in the Holy Land. The holy land is their ancestral home, and they deserve – the world's Jewish people deserve – a Jewish state so they can avoid the centuries of discrimination and anti-Semitism that they have endured over time. The Jewish people, as I say, the Israeli people – which includes, of course, people that are not Jewish by heritage – have had the only democracy in the area for the longest time. And they've been surrounded by people who want nothing less than the destruction of Israel. And they don't make it – they don't make any bones about it. Support in this Congress – support in the United States – for Israel, Madam President, has for these seven decades always been bipartisan. And it breaks my heart, and I think it should come as a shock to all Americans, that that bipartisan support seems to be fracturing on the other side of the aisle, among my Democratic colleagues. It is a shame that the Vice President of this country – the Vice President of the United States – Kamala Harris, declined to fulfill her duties to preside over the session. She found an excuse in another state to be at a meeting that could easily have been rescheduled. It's a shame that our Vice President – that the future nominee of her party for President of the United States – would make that statement, that she was unwilling to preside over a joint meeting addressed by the Prime Minister of Israel. The President pro tempore of the United States Senate refused to attend. Many members of this body on the Democratic side of the aisle, many members of the Democratic Party in the House of Representatives boycotted this speech by our steadfast ally of 70 years or more. I noticed when the Prime Minister of Israel came down through the center aisle there in the House of Representatives, shaking hands on from both sides. And he rounded the corner, Madam President, and the Majority Leader of this body – the senior senator from New York, Senator Schumer, declined to extend his hand to the Prime Minister of our steadfast ally. We also need to remember, as my colleagues have stated already, that in the region where Israel is the only democratic government in the Middle East, exists the Islamic Republic of Iran. They are a sworn enemy of Israel, and they're a sworn enemy of the United States of America. ‘Death to America’ is what they say. And they want to start with ‘Death to America’ by pronouncing ‘Death to Israel.’ More than that, they have proxies – at least three proxies – that we've been talking about recently: the Houthis in Yemen, Hezbollah to the north of Israel, and Hamas, the terrorist group that perpetrated the October slaughter on the people near Gaza. Hamas has one reason to exist. One stated, admitted reason, and one reason only: the complete destruction of Israel. And they demonstrated their ruthlessness on October 7th. Rapes, beheadings, babies being burned. Unspeakable acts of violence. And Prime Minister Netanyahu was correct to point out that people protesting outside this building on behalf of Hamas should be ashamed of themselves, in protesting on behalf of a group that was so violent. Madam President, Hamas uses civilians as human shields. That is a violation of international law. By contrast, contrary to what people have been told in the press, Israel is doing the best job that any combatant has ever done in protecting civilians while trying to root out terrorist groups. I am calling on people on both sides of the aisle, in conclusion, to return to our bipartisan support of the right of a people to exist somewhere, and to have one place on the face of the Earth, where they know they could be safe in their own beliefs, in their own population, and for the first time in centuries and millennia, to be safe and have their own homeland. So, I congratulate the Prime Minister of Israel. I congratulate the members of Congress who received him well. And I invite my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to remember the importance of bipartisan support for Israel.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/7/senator-wicker-congratulates-mississippi-s-class-of-2028-united-states-service-academy-appointees,Senator Wicker Congratulates Mississippi’s Class of 2028 United States Service Academy Appointees,2024-07-17,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., congratulates students who are enrolling in a United States Service Academy class this fall. Senator Wicker issued the following statement. “These fine students represent the future of our military,” Senator Wicker said. “The appointments are a testament to the students’ prior and future commitment to their communities and fellow neighbors. I thank them for serving our country and representing the great state of Mississippi.” Senator Wicker nominated these 16 students. They join others who were nominated by the rest of Mississippi’s congressional delegation. U.S. Air Force Academy Dylan Boone – Gulfport, MS (West Harrison High School) Lucas Gaschk – Olive Branch, MS (Lewisburg High School) Johnathan Livingston – Ridgeland, MS (St. Andrews Episcopal School) United States Military Academy at West Point Aidan Camillo – Clinton, MS (West Point Prep School) Gregory Fleming – Brandon, MS (Brandon High School) Judson Merideth – Madison, MS (Madison Ridgeland Academy) Savannah McDonald – Madison, MS (Germantown High School) United States Naval Academy Drake Harper – Moss Point, MS (East Central High School) Charles Morrow – Meridian, MS (Lamar Foundation School) Wade Potts – Olive Branch, MS (Lewisburg High School) Noah Short – Madison, MS (Naval Academy Prep School) Bryce Smith – Brookhaven, MS (Brookhaven High School) Noah Wyatt – Caledonia, MS (Caledonia High School) United States Merchant Marine Academy",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/7/senator-wicker-statement-on-final-removal-of-gaza-pier,Senator Wicker Statement on Final Removal of Gaza Pier,2024-07-17,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to the Department of Defense’s announcement that the U.S.-made pier constructed to deliver aid into Gaza has been permanently removed: “This chapter might be over in President Biden’s mind, but the national embarrassment that this project has caused is not. The only miracle is that this doomed-from-the-start operation did not cost any American lives,” Senator Wicker said. “I have been calling for an end to this election-year gimmick since its primetime inception at the State of the Union. While I am glad it has finally concluded, we cannot buy back the $230 million needlessly spent, and significant questions remain about the Biden administration’s poor planning for this mission.” Senator Wicker also presented the following facts about the pier: It took roughly double the amount of time to transport the pier than for the duration when the pier was actually in use. The $230M used to deploy the pier could have instead been used to purchase more than 1,200 Coyote counter-drone interceptors to keep U.S. troops safe in Iraq and Syria. Below is an accounting of Senator Wicker’s actions related to the pier:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/7/wicker-risch-demand-the-biden-administration-present-deterrence-options-amid-china-s-aggression-against-the-philippines,"Wicker, Risch Demand the Biden Administration Present Deterrence Options Amid China’s Aggression Against the Philippines",2024-07-17,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – China is escalating against Philippine forces in the South China Sea. U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the top Republican on the U.S. Senate Committee on Armed Services, and Jim Risch, R-Idaho, the top Republican on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, have asked President Biden to immediately present response options. Specifically, they have requested the president provide a full list of military, diplomatic, and economic options from the Department of Defense and Department of State to deter further Chinese aggression. “We must respond with visible and concrete demonstrations of our support,” the senators wrote. “Anything short of this risks our appearing unwilling to honor our bilateral commitments.” “Your administration has repeatedly stated that an attack on Philippine public vessels, aircraft, and armed forces – including its Coast Guard in the South China Sea – would invoke the U.S. mutual defense commitments under Article IV of the 1951 U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty,” the senators continued. “Limiting our response to verbal assurances of the applicability of Article IV undermines the credibility and value of these commitments. We must respond with visible and concrete demonstrations of our support.” The letter follows a similar effort from Wicker and Risch in October 2023, when the senators again urged support for the Sierra Madre and its mission in the South China Sea. Read the full letter here or below. The Honorable Joseph R. Biden The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear President Biden, We write to express our grave concern regarding the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) escalation of the use of force and coercion against the Philippines in the South China Sea. Your administration must move quickly to support the Philippines in countering China’s aggressive behavior. On June 19, the Philippines attempted to resupply the BRP Sierra Madre, a Filipino vessel grounded on a reef near Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. According to the Philippine military, the PRC’s Coast Guard used pickaxes and knives to puncture the Philippine vessels, confiscated the Philippines’ equipment, and deployed tear gas to create chaos and confusion during the confrontation. Your administration has repeatedly stated that an attack on Philippine public vessels, aircraft, and armed forces – including its Coast Guard in the South China Sea – would invoke the U.S. mutual defense commitments under Article IV of the 1951 U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty. Limiting our response to verbal assurances of the applicability of Article IV undermines the credibility and value of these commitments. We must respond with visible and concrete demonstrations of our support. Anything short of this risks our appearing unwilling to honor our bilateral commitments. We request your administration provide us with a full list of military, diplomatic, and economic options developed by the Departments of State and Defense to support the Philippines and deter further escalation by the PRC.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/7/senator-wicker-hosted-top-pentagon-officials-in-vicksburg,Senator Wicker Hosted Top Pentagon Officials in Vicksburg,2024-07-12,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"VICKSBURG – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., hosted Department of Defense (DOD) leaders in Mississippi to connect with the state’s research institutions, including its many Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and the Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) in Vicksburg. The DOD delegation was led by Assistant Secretary of Defense for Science and Technology, Aprille Ericsson, and included other senior leaders from the DOD research and engineering enterprise. As the highest-ranking Republican on the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Wicker has a unique position to showcase Mississippi’s significant defense contributions. Senator Wicker released the following statement:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/7/wicker-advocates-for-nato-reform-agenda-on-senate-floor,Wicker Advocates for NATO Reform Agenda on Senate Floor,2024-07-10,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), spoke yesterday on the U.S. Senate floor to promote a stronger path forward for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) alliance amid its 75th anniversary celebration this week in Washington. Nine NATO countries still do not satisfy the treaty commitment to spend two percent of GDP on defense. In his remarks, Senator Wicker challenged them to step up, especially as the new “axis of aggressors” increases cooperation against the free world. He also welcomed the soon-to-be NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to his new position, asking him to partner on moving transatlantic industrial base investment beyond even the two percent benchmark. Read Senator Wicker’s remarks as delivered below or watch them here. Mr. President, I would note, as members have seen and as the public is reading and hearing about, that this week, 32 nations are gathering in Washington for NATO’s 75th Anniversary Summit. Our alliance has reached this remarkable milestone – 75 years. Its longevity reaffirms its past success and its enduring value. And our bond must remain strong, particularly at this hour. We are in the most dangerous global security threat since World War II. Almost all of our witnesses before the Armed Services Committee tell us that we are in the most dangerous global threat security [environment in] generations. As we navigate today’s new challenges, NATO still stands as an indispensable alliance. I this consequential moment, NATO is receiving a new leader. I congratulate the outgoing Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, and I welcome our new Secretary-General, Mark Rutte. NATO’s 75th anniversary and its leadership transition provide Senators an opportunity. We have a chance to remember why NATO matters – and we have a chance to call upon every member – every nation member – to recommit to our alliance. I call upon my colleagues in both Houses, and in the administration – our friends – to recommit to this important and vital alliance. As Mr. Rutte takes office, he has a significant challenge to confront. And frankly, we all do, as I have pointed out from this desk numerous times. NATO faces a new “axis of aggressors.” China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea are banding together. They’re banding together to help Russia in its illegal invasion of Ukraine, and they’re banding together to pursue their designs on the free nations of this world. This new axis poses a set of growing, interlocking strategic threats to the United States and our allies. In their own way, they’ve all been supporting Russia’s illegal and unprovoked war on Ukraine. And, Mr. President, at this moment, I would have to pause and note the shameless and vicious Russian attack just earlier this week on a children’s hospital in Kyiv, Ukraine. This act, by one of the most brutal dictators that has ever walked on the face of the earth, must go answered. It cannot go unanswered. And the very idea that the free nations of this world would seek to negotiate as peers with such a brutal war criminal as Vladimir Putin, to me, is unthinkable. What in the world makes anyone think that this person who has violated every single principle of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe would negotiate in good faith and agree to that negotiation? So, we have a bleak situation. And it highlights NATO’s importance. NATO was built for such a time as this. And in meeting with the leaders yesterday afternoon, on the other end of this magnificent Capitol, I was heartened to hear that principle underscored. After the devastation of two world wars, NATO kept the peace by deterring the Soviet Union, and thank God we did. In the post-Cold War era, the alliance’s support for Ukraine has demonstrated why NATO continues to be relevant. Most NATO members have provided substantial military, economic, and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. In short, the alliance celebrates its 75th birthday from a position of strength. But we should not interpret NATO’s accomplishments in the past as a license to let down our guard now. NATO’s collective strength is only as strong as its members’ individual commitments. The truth is that our allies need to spend more on defense. We need, in the United States, to spend more on defense. It’s a necessity. We need to build modern, capable militaries that can stand shoulder-to-shoulder together in a fight against this axis of aggressors. We need the industrial might to match that force strength. In fact, most allies are meeting their obligations: This year, 23 of 32 NATO countries will spend at least two percent of their gross domestic product on defense – up from only seven out of 32 at the time of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. We all learned a lesson at that moment two and a half years ago. The world has grown too dangerous for the remaining NATO members not to meet the two percent mark. We all must make it a priority to increase defense spending. It’s shocking and unacceptable that some allies – especially some capable ones – have yet to reach the two percent requirement that they agreed to. Friends can speak candidly to one another, and so I will: Our neighbor to the north, Canada, is among this group, which has not – and for several years in the future will not – reach its need. I was able to meet with Prime Minister Trudeau just a few moments ago and was glad to hear him say that an announcement will be made from our friends in Canada, perhaps later this week, about a new plan to more quickly reach that two percent goal. And I call on him to fulfill that statement that he made to us in private. We look forward to that, and we congratulate him on that effort. NATO allies shouldn’t outsource security to others. But this challenge presents an opportunity, one that adds to the mandate we give the incoming Secretary-General. The transatlantic industrial base has withered, and we also need to attend to that. And that should be a part of Secretary-General Rutte’s new platform. In the past, our friends of freedom have had to follow our lead as we pursue a “peace through strength” agenda. Today, Europe has not kept pace as it should. The United States has begun to invest heavily to rebuild its arsenal of democracy, and we need to continue doing so. But we’re still waiting for the dramatic increase in European 155mm artillery production. We have yet to see the expanded lines of long-range cruise missiles, such as the Storm Shadow and the SCALP. We have heard promises of a reinvigorated defense industrial base in Europe, but those assurances have yet to be fulfilled. So, as he assumes office, Secretary-General Rutte should join us in recognizing the two percent commitment is, in truth, insufficient in light of Russia’s newly mobilized war economy. There are additional issues standing in NATO’s way. Its members remain – they remain mired in their own domestic issues. They must of course attend to these domestic concerns. But they also remain tangled up in an alliance bureaucracy that struggles with basic expansions in munitions production capacity. These challenges are significant, but Mr. Rutte and the elected governments of our alliance must not abide the status quo. We should consider this situation unsustainable, and we should say so. NATO asks its members for two percent. In my 21st Century Peace Through Strength report, I have recommended that we in the United States spend five percent of GDP on national defense, as did President Reagan. My plan is primarily designed to deter the Chinese Communist Party, but it also calls for the United States to deepen commitments to Europe. For a few examples: I recommend permanently stationing an armored Brigade Combat Team in Poland. My plan proposes increasing our rotational deployments in Eastern Europe. We should also improve intelligence sharing and communication among allied forces. Time and again, the United States has learned – sometimes the hard way – we cannot walk away from Europe. Together, the transatlantic alliance represents half of the world’s economy. There’s simply no way to contain Beijing’s economic aggression without working together closely. Likewise, a stagnant U.S. military budget and half-hearted European defense spending cannot contain Russia’s antagonism.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/7/senator-wicker-honors-senator-inhofe-on-senate-floor,Senator Wicker Honors Senator Inhofe On Senate Floor,2024-07-09,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., delivered remarks on the Senate floor honoring former Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman, Jim Inhofe, who passed away this morning. Remarks as delivered are below: I rise this morning to discuss national defense, and in particular, the importance of the NATO alliance, as quite a number of our friends in NATO have arrived in Washington to celebrate the 75th annual meeting of this important defense organization. And I can hardly talk about national defense, and NATO, and the importance of keeping our defenses strong without calling attention to the sad fact that our former colleague, Senator Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma, passed away this morning. I am told that Senators Lankford and Mullin will seek recognition at a later time to speak extensively about this remarkable statesman who has passed from among us. Members will be notified of when that might be, should they want to join in. But at this point – at this pivotal moment, when I wish to talk about national defense – let me just say a word or two about my friend and colleague of 30 years, Jim Inhofe. As a young man – as a young family man – Jim Inhofe quickly learned how to build a business and create jobs, and he did so successfully. Only a few years later as a municipal leader, he found out how to build consensus. And he took that knowledge with him to Capitol Hill as a member of the House of Representatives and then as our colleague here in the United States Senate. And Jim Inhofe demonstrated that he continued to know how to build consensus and get things done for his fellow Oklahomans, as well as for his fellow Americans. Anyone who knew Jim Inhofe knew that he was a dedicated Christian. Jim Inhofe was a man of great faith, with, in particular, a heart for Sub-Saharan Africa. He visited there countless times, encouraged numerous – probably hundreds – of his fellow Senators and Representatives – to accompany him to visit some of the most challenged countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. He hosted countless prayer breakfasts there. He got to know the leaders in those countries and their families by name. He was a remarkable Christian friend to those in Africa. Jim Inhofe was an accomplished pilot. He flew solo around the world at age 56. As a Member of Congress, he was known as a straight shooter who was not afraid to challenge the conventional wisdom, as he did so on numerous occasions. Jim and his wife Kay were married for 64 years. Together, they had four children, and 12 grandchildren, one of whom they found, and adopted, and rescued during a trip to Africa. I would mention that Kay Inhofe has been a special friend and advisor to my wife, Gayle, for these decades.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/7/senator-wicker-schumer-should-bring-ndaa-to-the-floor,Senator Wicker: Schumer Should Bring NDAA to the Floor,2024-07-08,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), called on to Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., to bring the recently filed Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act to the Senate floor. Senator Wicker’s statement: “The Senate Armed Services Committee sent a bipartisan signal that we must return to ‘peace through strength.’ The new axis of aggressors and their threats are already upon us. We do not have time to waste. Instead of all the recent show votes, this vital national security legislation, which includes the $25 billion topline increase, must be considered,” Senator Wicker said. “The world’s greatest deliberative body should get a chance to work its will on the floor, and I hope more of my colleagues will join me in continuing the national conversation about investing more.” Senator Wicker will continue making the case that if President Biden’s budget can call for $76 billion above the spending caps, then the U.S. Congress can discuss increasing defense spending.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/7/senator-wicker-statement-on-russian-strike-on-ukrainian-children-s-hospital,Senator Wicker Statement on Russian Strike on Ukrainian Children’s Hospital,2024-07-08,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, commented on reports that Russia has unleashed its largest missile barrage on Ukraine in months, striking a children’s hospital and leaving at least 30 dead. This attack occurred as NATO leaders are convening in Washington this week for the 75th anniversary of the alliance: “The world has known at least since February 22, 2022, that Vladimir Putin is a war criminal. His bombing of a children’s hospital on Sunday only reinforces that reality,” Senator Wicker said. “Rather than discussing negotiations with this brutal dictator, we should look toward the day when he is charged and convicted for his genocidal acts. As if we needed another reminder, this evil and barbaric attack shows the high moral cost of the Biden administration’s failure to supply Ukraine with the munitions and defenses it needs.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/6/senator-wicker-commends-advancement-of-yazoo-flood-control-solution,Senator Wicker Commends Advancement of Yazoo Flood Control Solution,2024-06-28,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Plan has been promised to Yazoo since 1941 One of Senator Wicker’s longstanding priorities WASHINGTON – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) Vicksburg District today released the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the Yazoo Backwater Study Area. The federal government authorized the pumps 80 years ago, but the project has been held up by bureaucrats and red tape ever since. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., released the following statement. “The people of the Yazoo Backwater Area have experienced setback after setback while waiting decades for flood control solutions. The delay has been devastating for the region,” Senator Wicker said. “Today’s announcement puts the South Delta one step closer to a water management program that would protect businesses, homes, and farms from flooding. I have spent years pushing for flood control projects in the South Delta, and the Yazoo Backwater Pumps Project is one of my longstanding priorities. I will keep pushing the federal bureaucrats to finish the project, and I encourage Yazoo Backwater Area residents to continue sharing their stories and opinions so we can prevent further tragedy and loss.” Background: Under the proposed DEIS plan, a series of new pumping stations would drain the water that pools on the flood plain during periods of heavy rainfall. During crop season, the pumps would activate when water nears 90 feet. Out of season, they would turn on to keep water from exceeding 93 feet. The limited number of residents whose property falls inside the projected flood zone will be able to receive government help raising their homes, building ring levees, or moving outside the risk area. Public comments will be accepted for 45 days after the release of the DEIS and will close on August 12, 2024.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/6/senator-wicker-statement-on-president-biden-s-third-failed-attempt-at-the-gaza-pier-mission,Senator Wicker Statement on President Biden’s Third Failed Attempt at the Gaza Pier Mission,2024-06-28,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), responded to press reports that the Gaza pier has again been suspended because of rough sea conditions and may not be redeployed. Previous press reports indicated the Mediterranean Sea’s rough waters were expected to worsen over the summer, which called into question if the pier would be an effective conduit for humanitarian aid. The pier was under construction or in planning phases for 68 days. Then, it was operating for 11 days before breaking apart and being paused for 10. Earlier this month, it resumed for three days, then paused for three days, and it was again shut down again for another four days because of difficult sea states. It was then redeployed another time for eight days before shutting down. In total, the pier appears to have been offline or under construction more than four times as long as it has been operational. Senator Wicker released the following statement: “How long until the White House approves a federal disaster declaration for this mission? President Biden’s unworkable pier went from being the crown jewel of his State of the Union to barely being able to stay above water. This tragic waste of our military’s time is what happens when politics is put ahead of practicality. The window has closed for this disastrous project to make any meaningful difference,” Senator Wicker said. Senator Wicker has been raising the alarm on the Gaza pier project since March, when he wrote a Washington Examiner op-ed highlighting its potential risks to U.S. forces and led his SASC colleagues on a letter to President Biden asking basic questions about its operational solvency. This failure was predicted by every Republican member of SASC. The Senate’s version of the National Defense Authorization Act passed earlier this month directs an Inspector General report on the poor planning that precipitated this decision. In the letter, Senator Wicker and his colleagues wrote: “As has been widely reported in the press, armed gangs are attacking aid convoys crossing into the strip. Your decision to build a pier for Gaza merely creates another port of entry that will be backlogged.” This was sadly prescient: as of June 24, DoD informed the Senate Armed Services Committee that of the 6,206 metric tons of humanitarian assistance that had been moved into Gaza via the pier, 5,228 metric tons – more than 84 percent –“remains in the marshaling yard ashore awaiting transfer and distribution.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/6/putin-kim-visit-in-north-korea-affirms-the-immediate-need-for-ndaa-vote-in-the-u-s-senate,Putin-Kim Visit in North Korea Affirms the Immediate Need for NDAA Vote in the U.S. Senate,2024-06-20,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, spoke today on the U.S. Senate floor about Russian president Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s meeting in Pyongyang this week. In his remarks, Senator Wicker underscored that North Korea, Russia, Iran, and China’s partnerships are already undermining American interests, which highlights the need for the National Defense Authorization Act to be brought to the U.S. Senate floor immediately. Senator Wicker’s remarks also raised the increased cooperation between the new “axis of aggressors.” Senator Wicker also emphasized how the defense investment proposals in his recently released “21st Century Peace Through Strength” plan could help meet the moment. The remarks also follow a similar op-ed from Senator Wicker in Fox News about the rising nuclear threat from North Korea and proposals to improve deterrence against Kim Jong Un. Read Senator Wicker’s remarks as delivered below or watch them here. For the first time in 24 years, this week, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin visited the North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang. This rare trip was a sign of a new reality, and it amounts to bad news for the United States and for our alliance and the forces of freedom around the world. An axis of aggressors continues to emerge and this visit by Putin to Kim Jong Un is just the latest sign. Our adversaries, Russia, North Korea, China, the Ayatollah’s Iran have been banding together to create a world that is less free, less peaceful, and less prosperous for the American people. Every member of the Senate knows this, and we have an opportunity to respond. And there is a glimmer of good news, Mr. President. Last week, the Senate Armed Services Committee, of which I am a member, overwhelmingly voted to move the National Defense Authorization bill forward. We wrote the bill specifically to address this rising danger. Our near unanimous support for passage of the NDAA is a sign that we agree on at least one thing: the United States is not ready to stand up to this axis of aggressors. This new group, who are banding together and assisting each other as they never have before, and we don’t have time to waste. The Armed Services Committee has put that conviction into practice. Senators from both sides of the aisle added an additional $25 billion to the legislation – to the topline of this legislation. Twenty-five billion dollars which would invest in the munitions and systems we need to confront this axis and to prevent war – to preserve the peace and prevent war. Vladimir Putin’s visit to Kim Jong Un was more than just a ceremony. The two autocrats signed a defense pact between North Korea and Russia, agreeing to help each other militarily. This new pact is troubling, but it should come as no surprise. It is only the latest step in their growing partnership. For two years, North Korea has been supplying Russia with millions of artillery shells and hundreds of ballistic missiles for Putin’s illegal war against Ukraine. In exchange, Moscow has helped Pyongyang evade the sanctions that previously held back the North Korean economy. The Russian-North Korean partnership is just one aspect of the growing axis of aggressors. China has supported Russia’s unprovoked and illegal invasion of Ukraine. China has sent weapons components and geospatial intelligence to Vladimir Putin. In return, Moscow has sold oil to China. Iran has supplied – Iran – in another section of the world, has supplied hundreds of ballistic missiles and thousands of deadly drones for Putin’s terror campaign against Ukrainian citizens. Russia has returned the favor by sending Tehran advanced air defense missiles and jets. All four of these countries, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and communist China have supported Hamas’ hateful and illegal attack on Israel, and they have supported the Houthis’ reckless campaign against international commerce. Time and again, my colleagues and I have been calling attention to this evil alliance. We in the United States should expect more meetings like the one that took place in Pyongyang this week. A year ago, China hosted the first state visit of Iranian officials – first time ever that communist China has hosted a state visit of Iranian officials. Just last month, Vladimir Putin met with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This is not an accident. These instances are not unrelated Mr. President. At these meetings, handshakes will turn into hardware. You can be sure of that. Our adversaries will continue sending the tools of war to each other, further destabilizing the free world. And as the world is changing, so must the United States. We must return to what we know works best, to what has been proven to work best. We must increase our military capability, and we must do it now, which is why I am so thankful to my colleagues on a bipartisan basis for what they have done in the National Defense Authorization Act in committee. In May of this year, I released a detailed plan to make sure that we return to a necessary level of support for our military. We entitled it the “21st Century Peace Through Strength” document, and it contains proposals for every theater and every domain of warfare. A number of elements in the report are particularly relevant to the budding North Korea-Russia relationship and to China’s nuclear breakout. In my plan, I recommend serious conversations with our allies and partners, conversations about how to meet the threats we share. With our allies South Korea, Japan, and Australia, we should discuss nuclear burden-sharing agreements. It’s time for them to step forward and join us in nuclear burden-sharing. Just as former Japanese Prime Minister, the late Shinzo Abe, suggested in 2022. We should also explore re-deploying American nuclear weapons back where they have been in the past, to that region, to keep North Korea and China in check. The Senate Armed Services Committee has taken a first step to fix our nuclear shortfalls in the Pacific. And Mr. President, this is as result of a panel of experts that this congress authorized, that this president signed legislation for, and which has met over the past several years, and which reported to us on not a bipartisan basis but a unanimous bipartisan basis. Our action in the NDAA reflects that unanimous recommendation of experts. In that regard, we authorized the continued development of the sea-launched nuclear cruise missile. This will help us rise to the challenge posted by our adversaries’ tactical nuclear weapons. The committee has also focused its defense budget increase on exactly the kinds of the weapons and infrastructure that will be most helpful as we seek to deter our adversaries, to deter our adversaries from making a fatal mistake, so that we can continue the peace. Those steps are tailored to the Pacific, but the goals match the overall theme of this year’s National Defense Authorization Act. Just as we did under the administration of Ronald Reagan, we can achieve peace through strength. But we must achieve it through strength. That’s the way Reagan did it, and he did it with a Democratic Senate and a Democratic House for many of those years. We can contain the rising axis of aggressors. But we can only do so if we make a once-in-a-generation investment in our armed forces. This is not a luxury. This is not a frill for our military that is to be desired by some of them. This is an absolute necessity. Listen to the witnesses that have come before us in open sessions of our committee, and almost to a man and a woman they have said this is the most dangerous defense situation that we have had in if not decades, in generations. These are the people that we look to for information and leadership and this is the non-classified testimony. Those of us who see all of the information see further need for this necessity, not this frill. So, as I said earlier, Mr. President, my Senate Armed Services Committee colleagues agree. We’ve recognized the danger, and we’ve taken the first step to meet the moment. Last week, we did agree to the defense topline increase of $25 billion and frankly, experts who have done this before tell you that we really needed twice as much. But this is what we could get passed out of the committee. The topline increase is a down payment on the defense investment that is necessary to keep Americans safe. It would help reverse the downsizing of our Navy, help reverse the downsizing of our Air Force and would bring the next-generation weapons to the field faster. It includes $5.5 billion to accelerate production of key munitions and counter-drone gear. The increase would invest over $1 billion in space capabilities crucial for 21st century warfare, and Mr. President you know this, and every member of the Senate know this: the next war, if we cannot avoid it, will be fought in space and will be fought with lasers in addition to the oceans and in addition to on the ground. We are in need of providing ourselves with the resources to meet that kind of new warfare that we’ve never seen in the history of mankind. It would invest $6 billion in military construction and maintenance for our barracks, training ranges, and military infrastructure, and a pay raise for those Americans, those brave young Americans, those brave young men and women who are willing to step forward and say I am going to take an oath to serve my country during dangerous times. So, Mr. President, Putin’s visit to North Korea is just another sign that we have no time to waste. The axis has already started solidifying as I’ve pointed out. Senate leadership needs to bring the NDAA to the floor for a vote, soon. Delays only diminish American strength and embolden our adversaries. Again, I commend my colleagues on the Armed Services Committee, and I call on our leadership to bring this essential legislation forward now so that we can let the appropriators know what we actually need.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/6/u-s-senate-armed-services-committee-advances-annual-defense-bill,U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee Advances Annual Defense Bill,2024-06-18,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) is advancing Congress’ annual defense bill. As the highest-ranking Republican on SASC, U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., is well-positioned to shape the bill, the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (FY 25 NDAA), to benefit Mississippi’s service members and their families. Senator Wicker also secured a $25 billion increase to the defense budget so we can adequately meet today’s growing threats from the new axis of aggressors: China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. The next step for the legislation would be a full vote in the U.S. Senate. Senator Wicker will fight for pro-Mississippi provisions to be included in the final version, which historically becomes law at the end of the calendar year. Among many of Senator Wicker’s priorities, a few key elements of the bill could ensure Mississippi receives additional investments in artificial intelligence, unmanned weapons systems, special operations activities, naval fleet construction, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and national security research.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/6/sasc-completes-markup-of-national-defense-authorization-act-for-fiscal-year-2025,SASC Completes Markup of National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025,2024-06-14,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Roger Wicker (R-MS), Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, announced that the Committee voted 22-3 to advance the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. The bill now heads to the Senate floor for consideration. Senator Reed commented: “I am glad that this year’s NDAA makes important progress in a number of areas, including a well-deserved pay raise for military servicemembers, powerful new security initiatives in the Indo-Pacific, and significant support for technologies like counter-drone defenses and AI. However, I regret that I needed to vote against passage of this bill because it includes a funding increase that cannot be appropriated without breaking lawful spending caps and causing unintended harm to our military. I appreciate the need for greater defense spending to ensure our national security, but I cannot support this approach. “Passing the NDAA takes bipartisanship – that means you don’t win everything – and I’m grateful that my colleagues share a common agreement that getting this bill to the Senate floor and ultimately the President’s desk is our paramount responsibility. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate and House to find practical ways to strengthen this year’s defense bill.” Senator Wicker also commented: “This bill shows there is bipartisan support for doing more to maintain deterrence and protect American interests. I am encouraged that many of my colleagues have joined me in the conversation about the need to invest more in our national defense. I look forward to discussing the peace through strength vision I have laid out in the months to come. This year’s NDAA results are a testament to the tradition of bipartisanship, vigorous debate, and good working order on which this committee prides itself.” Committee approval is the first step in a months-long process to establish defense funding levels and set policies for the Defense Department and the Energy Department’s national security programs. The bill must now be debated and voted on by the full U.S. Senate. A separate measure will make its way through the U.S. House of Representatives. Once both the Senate and House pass their versions of the bill, they must then be reconciled in a bicameral conference committee, and then approved by each chamber before a final version may be sent to the President to be signed into law. This marks the 64th consecutive year that the Committee has advanced the defense policy bill.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/6/senator-wicker-secures-topline-increase-in-ndaa-markup,Senator Wicker Secures Topline Increase in NDAA Markup,2024-06-14,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., secured a $25 billion increase to the defense budget topline during the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) consideration of the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The Wicker amendment was adopted on a bipartisan basis and would increase defense investment for FY2025 by $25 billion. Senator Wicker, the highest-ranking Republican on SASC, released the following statement: “This is a significant win for our national security. Two weeks ago I released a proposal for increased spending on vital national security needs. I hope that proposal and this week's legislation can be part of a continuing national conversation. My amendment to increase the budget topline is a down payment, and it keeps advancing the discussion. Negotiations need a starting point, and this is not the end. I will not give up on reaching a defense level that meets the moment,” Senator Wicker said. In recent weeks, Senator Wicker has amplified his call for a generational investment to prevent another world war. He has highlighted how the axis of aggressors and their threats are already upon us, that there is no time to waste, and why we needed to get started this year with corrective action. The NDAA is not subject to the Fiscal Responsibility Act caps.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/6/president-biden-approves-state-of-mississippi-s-request-for-federal-disaster-declaration,President Biden Approves State of Mississippi’s Request for Federal Disaster Declaration,2024-06-11,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Last night, President Biden approved Governor Tate Reeves’ request for a federal disaster declaration after recent storms – including multiple tornadoes – brought severe damage to the State of Mississippi. U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., and U.S. Representatives Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., Trent Kelly, R-Miss., Michael Guest, R-Miss., and Mike Ezell, R-Miss., supported the governor’s ask. A declared federal declaration initiates the process for federal funds and support to flow to Mississippi’s communities. Specifically, Governor Reeves’ declaration included a request for assistance for Hancock, Hinds, Humphreys, Madison, Neshoba, and Scott Counties. See the full letter here or below: Dear President Biden, Recent storms – including multiple tornadoes – brought severe damage to the State of Mississippi. Together, we request your full consideration of Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves’s request for a federal disaster declaration. We appreciate the efforts of the Federal Emergency Management Agency in assisting with past disasters and anticipate expeditious support from the agency in assisting state and local officials as Mississippi recovers from these severe storms. Initial damage reports indicate Mississippi experienced an atmospheric disturbance, which generated multiple tornadoes, supercell thunderstorms, flooding, and severe straight-line winds from April 8 to 11. Two Mississippians lost their lives, and at least 11 were injured. As Governor Reeves noted, damage assessments report that at least 108 homes, businesses, and other structures were destroyed or suffered significant damage. This declaration includes a request for Individual Assistance for Hancock, Hinds, Humphreys, Madison, Neshoba, and Scott Counties. Additionally, it contains a request for statewide Hazard Mitigation assistance. Available resources from state and local governments and volunteer organizations are inadequate to meet the state’s recovery needs. To recover, Mississippi needs significant federal assistance and cooperation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z