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.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-announces-281-million-for-texas-from-new-rural-health-transformation-program/,Cornyn Announces $281 Million for Texas from New Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement announcing that the Trump administration has allocated $281,319,361 for Texas from the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program, which Sen. Cornyn supported as part of the Working Families Tax Cuts:

“I was proud to vote to create the new Rural Health Transformation Program to improve health care for the millions of Texans living in rural areas across the Lone Star State,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I’m grateful to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Dr. Oz, and the Trump administration for allocating Texas this significant funding, which is yet another example of the Working Families Tax Cuts benefitting all Texans.”

Background:

Earlier this month, Sen. Cornyn and Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) led a letter with members of the Texas congressional delegation to Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Dr. Mehmet Oz, urging him to prioritize funding for the State of Texas. Sen. Cornyn also released a statement in support of Texas’ application in November.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-bill-to-exhume-alleged-serial-murderer-from-fort-sam-houston-national-cemetery-signed-into-law/,Cornyn Bill to Exhume Alleged Serial Murderer from Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery Signed into Law,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after his bill to require the U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs to disinter the remains of Fernando V. Cota, an alleged serial murderer and convicted rapist, from Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas, was signed into law by President Trump as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026:

“Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery is a sacred resting place for more than 170,000 respected veterans and their loved ones, and it would be a slap in the face to each one of them to allow Fernando Cota, a convicted rapist and alleged serial murderer, to remain buried amongst such heroes,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law rightfully directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to disinter Cota’s remains from Fort Sam Houston to be in-keeping with current law and deliver justice for victims’ families.”

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) is a cosponsor of this legislation.

Background:

Sen. Cornyn’s law directs the U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs to disinter Fernando V. Cota, an alleged serial murderer and convicted rapist, from Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. This comes at the request of the son of one of Cota’s alleged victims.

Fernando Cota was drafted into the U.S. Army and fought in the Vietnam War. Upon returning to the states and transitioning to civilian life, he faced multiple sexual assault allegations, was the prime suspect in the murders of six women in San Jose, California, and was ultimately convicted of attacking a nurse by binding and raping her in 1975. He was imprisoned for two decades, but was later released on parole in 1983. One year later, he was stopped by police officers while driving erratically, leading him to commit suicide by a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police found a wooden box in his van with the corpse of a young woman, later identified as 21-year-old Kim Marie Dunham, who had gone missing the day before.

Following Cota’s death, the police received a search warrant for his home, where investigators found a small closet where he would torture his victims. On the walls inside the closet, detectives found many fingerprints, which were sent for examination to identify other potential victims.

Furthermore, investigators found fake ID cards, a false police badge, numerous women’s blouses, six pairs of women’s shoes, and advertisements for tenants, which Cota posted on San Jose State University’s campus to invite local students to rent a room in his apartment. During the investigation, six girls were identified as victims – all killed by being strangled, stabbed, or beaten to death.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-kelly-bill-to-enhance-u-s-mexico-counternarcotics-efforts-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Kelly Bill to Enhance U.S.-Mexico Counternarcotics Efforts Signed into Law",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) released the following statements after their Counternarcotics Enhancement Act, which will require elements of the Intelligence Community to assess any direct relationship with an element of the Government of Mexico, develop a strategy to enhance counternarcotics efforts, and make recommendations or request resources required to implement the strategy in furtherance of the national interest of the United States, was signed into law by President Trump as part of the Intelligence Authorization Act (IAA) included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026:

“One innocent life lost because of illicit narcotics smuggled into the U.S. by way of Mexico is one too many,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law will ensure our Intelligence Community leverages the U.S.-Mexico relationship to most effectively root out these silent killers and keep Americans safe.”

“To win the fight against drug trafficking, the U.S. and Mexico have to work together against the cartels,” said Sen. Kelly. “This effort with Republicans and Democrats will make our country safer by keeping drugs off our streets through Intelligence Community engagement with the government of Mexico.”

Background:

The Counternarcotics Enhancement Act will require elements of the Intelligence Community to submit to the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) the following information:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-op-ed-republicans-solution-to-affordability-is-through-tax-cuts-for-working-families/,Cornyn Op-Ed: Republicans’ Solution to Affordability is Through Tax Cuts for Working Families,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) authored the following op-ed in the San Antonio Express News on the benefits of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, also known as the Working Families Tax Cuts, which will put money back into the pockets of hard-working Texans.

Republicans’ Solution to Affordability is Through Tax Cuts for Working Families

Senator John Cornyn

The San Antonio Express-News

In print December 21, 2025

https://www.expressnews.com/opinion/commentary/article/republican-tax-cuts-john-cornyn-21248007.php

Americans are facing an affordability crisis after 40-year high inflation under the Biden administration. A quarter of U.S. households are living paycheck to paycheck, while 56% of voters say that affordability is their top concern. While there is no silver bullet that can magically erase economic anxiety, Republicans have delivered solutions that will ease the burden of rising costs on Texan families through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, also known as the Working Families Tax Cuts.

This legislation, which President Donald Trump signed into law on July 4, helps Americans keep more of what they earn by lowering taxes across the board, with Texans receiving an outsized benefit. We permanently increased the base standard deduction to $15,750 with an annual adjustment for inflation. Without our legislation, the standard deduction would have dropped to $8,300 next year, hurting the more than 12 million Texan families who claim the standard deduction. We also made permanent the lower tax rates from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which were set to expire at the end of 2025. The Tax Foundation estimates that Texans will receive an average tax cut of $3,942 in 2026 from the Working Families Tax Cuts.

The burden of rising costs is particularly acute for families with children, who are often forced to pick between living on one income or budgeting for the increasingly exorbitant cost of child care. Without our legislation, families would have been further pinched next year with the Child Tax Credit scheduled to decrease from $2,000 down to $1,000. The Working Families Tax Cuts prevented this from happening, raising the Child Tax Credit to $2,200 and indexing it to inflation. Additionally, we permanently strengthened the Employer-provided Child Care Credit, which will incentivize businesses to provide child care. These reforms mark a small but important step towards making family life more affordable.

Health care remains one of Americans’ top concerns as medical costs continue to rise. We helped address this by expanding access to Health Savings Accounts, or HSAs. Our bill extended HSA eligibility to individual market bronze and catastrophic plans beginning in 2026, allowing people with individual market plans to save pre-tax dollars, and use those funds to cover eligible medical costs. It also permanently ensures high-deductible health plans can cover telehealth and other remote services before the deductible kicks in, while remaining HSA-eligible. With wider access to HSAs, families can rest a little easier knowing that they will have resources set aside to rely on in the case of an unforeseen medical emergency.

Monthly car payments have become another stress point as high interest rates translate to higher payments. The Working Families Tax Cuts confront this problem as well. Our law introduced a new source of savings for those earning less than $100,000: Texans can now deduct up to $10,000 for interest paid on a loan for a new vehicle made in the U.S. This new deduction will help individuals and families who need to purchase a new car, while incentivizing manufacturing here in the United States. Whereas the Biden administration subsidized electric vehicles, a luxury household item made from materials that rely on Chinese supply chains, Republicans have rightly prioritized tax relief for purchases of made-in-America-cars for the working middle class.

Republicans also delivered targeted relief to hourly-wage workers, tipped workers and seniors through new deductions. We delivered a historic win for the working class with our “No Tax on Tips” and “No Tax on Overtime” provisions. These allow employees and self-employed individuals to deduct up to $25,000 in tip income for tax years 2025 through 2028. We also created a new deduction of up to $12,500 for single filers for qualified overtime income, as well as a new $6,000 deduction for seniors over the age of 65. The U.S. Department of Treasury estimates that about 6 million workers will benefit from the new “No Tax on Tips” policy. Through these deductions, the Working Families Tax Cuts ensure that working Texans and seniors have a little more breathing room when Tax Day comes around.

While there is no magic wand that will lower prices and end financial uncertainty, Republicans have delivered relief through the Working Families Tax Cuts and put more money back into the pockets of working Texans. Our historic reforms will help families, those struggling with health care costs or car payments, as well as hourly workers, tipped workers, and seniors. Through the Working Families Tax Cuts, the Republican Party has delivered a critical step towards one of President Trump’s most important promises to the American people, and that is to make life affordable again.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-cruz-kennedy-urge-action-to-protect-us-oil-and-gas-from-eu-methane-mandate,"Sens. Cruz, Kennedy Urge Action to Protect U.S. Oil and Gas from EU Methane Mandate",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Kennedy (R-La.) sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, and Ambassador Jamieson Greer of the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, urging the Trump administration to pressure the European Union to repeal the European Union Methane Regulation (EUMR). The EUMR seeks to regulate oil and gas production within the United States, undermining American energy dominance, infringing on American sovereignty, and potentially harming U.S. energy exports to the European Union.

Below are highlights and excerpts from the letter:

“When fully phased in, the EUMR will set a new, yet-to-be-defined methane intensity standard for U.S. imports of oil and natural gas. This provision, if allowed to go into effect, would mean that regulators in Paris, Berlin, and Brussels would tell operators in Midland and Pittsburgh how, when, and where to produce energy.

“The insinuation that European countries could directly regulate American producers is a gross overstep and breach of bilateral relations—especially in the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, where American LNG exporters helped fend off the worst-case scenarios by surging cargoes to the region. Europe continues to rely on U.S. LNG to keep homes warm, lights on, and factories operating across the continent. In the absence of U.S. LNG, Europe’s reliance on Russian energy would grow, further undermining European security and reinforcing Russia’s strategic grip on the continent.

“As you meet with your European counterparts to finalize the trade deal implementation action plan, we ask that this administration use all available legal, diplomatic, and economic tools to ensure that the EUMR is repealed in full. Regulating aspects of the EU’s own oil and gas production is within the authority delegated to it by member states—any attempt to extend such regulations to U.S. producers represents a clear and provocative attempt to supersede America’s sovereign right to regulate, through laws passed by the U.S. Congress, its own energy supply.

“Thank you for your commitment to maintaining American energy dominance. We stand ready to work together with this administration to protect U.S. energy producers across the country.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-bill-to-combat-cartels-in-mexico-signed-into-law/,Cornyn Bill to Combat Cartels in Mexico Signed into Law,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after his Partnership for Advancing Regional Training and Narcotics Enforcement Response Strategies (PARTNERS) Act, which requires the Department of Defense (DoD) to recommend future additional joint training with Mexican military forces to combat cartels, was signed into law by President Trump as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026:

“Texas shares more than 1,200 miles of common border with Mexico, and bilateral cooperation is essential to stop the flow of deadly drugs and keep people safe,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law will empower the Department of War to train Mexican military forces in counternarcotic efforts to crack down on cartels and bolster the national security of both countries.”

Sen. Angus King (I-ME) is a cosponsor of this legislation.

Background:

The PARTNERS Act will create a military-to-military pilot program through the DoD to bring Mexican military forces to the U.S. to receive tactical training that they can employ in Mexico to counter transnational criminal organizations (TCO), including cartels, weapons dealers, drug traffickers, and human smugglers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-blumenthal-colleagues-bill-to-combat-child-exploitation-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Blumenthal, Colleagues’ Bill to Combat Child Exploitation Signed into Law",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) released the following statements after their PROTECT Our Children Act, which would reauthorize and modernize the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program, was signed into law by President Trump as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026:

“The Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program has a long history of equipping our law enforcement officers with the tools needed to safeguard children online and hold perpetrators accountable,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation will reauthorize and update this critical program to address the evolving digital threat landscape and protect our children from these heinous crimes, and I’m glad it is now the law of the land thanks to President Trump.”

“The PROTECT our Children Act—bipartisan legislation to fight child exploitation and abuse online—is now law,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “Put into action, our measure will ensure that Internet Crimes Against Children Task Forces and their law enforcement partners have the tools and resources they need to protect kids from online predators and hold bad actors accountable.”

“The threats children face are growing by the day, and Congress has a responsibility to ensure law enforcement has the resources needed to protect them,” said Sen. Blackburn. “By signing the PROTECT Our Children Act into law, President Trump has reauthorized and modernized the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program to help identify predators, stop abuse, and keep kids safe.”

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) is also a cosponsor of this legislation.

Background:

The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program helps state and local law enforcement agencies develop an effective response to technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation and Internet crimes against children. This encompasses forensic and investigative components, training and technical assistance, victim services, and community education. This national network of 61 coordinated task forces represents more than 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies engaged in both proactive and reactive investigations, forensic investigations, and criminal prosecutions.

From 1998 to 2022, ICAC Task Forces trained more than 826,700 law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and other professionals on techniques to investigate and prosecute ICAC-related cases. They also reviewed more than 1.4 million reports of online child exploitation, which resulted in the arrest of more than 123,790 suspects.

The PROTECT Our Children Act would:

Update and modernize the requirements for the National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction, including requiring the U.S. Department of Justice to provide detailed, useful information on efforts to protect children nationwide;

Provide liability protection for ICAC Task Forces in the course of conducting criminal investigations of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and child abuse material;

Make needed technical improvements and clarifications to the statutory text of the program to match it to current technology and needs;

Focus the ICAC program on both proactive and reactive investigations;

And reauthorize the ICAC Program through 2028.

The PROTECT Our Children Act is endorsed by the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE), the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), National Children’s Alliance, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), Rights 4 Girls, National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), Raven, Fraternal Order of Police, Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), and the National Criminal Justice Training Center (NCJTC) and the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA).

Sen. Cornyn has long championed the ICAC Task Force Program and has led its reauthorization efforts in the U.S. Senate since 2017.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-celebrates-trump-admins-water-delivery-agreement-with-mexico/,Cornyn Celebrates Trump Admin’s Water Delivery Agreement with Mexico,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today released the following statement celebrating the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) agreement with Mexico to meet their water delivery obligations under the 1944 Water Treaty and the arrival of Mexico’s delivery to the U.S.:

“After many months of pressure from the Trump administration and myself, I am pleased that Mexico has finally agreed to deliver more water it owes under the 1944 Water Treaty and has started to make those disbursements to the United States this week,” said Sen. Cornyn. “Thanks to the hard work of President Trump and Secretary Rollins, farmers and ranchers in South Texas can finally begin to have some certainty on the water deliveries they need to ensure their crops and livestock can thrive, and I will continue working with the administration to ensure the United States receives the water we are owed.”

Background:

Sen. Cornyn has led the charge in Congress to boost South Texas’ water supply and ensure Mexico fulfills its treaty obligations to provide annual deliveries of water to South Texas farmers and ranchers. In addition to securing more than $280 million in emergency assistance for Rio Grande Valley farmers and producers affected by the water shortage, he led a request earlier this year to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio asking for renewed efforts to force Mexico to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty while also securing Secretary Rubio’s commitment to hold Mexico accountable for delays.

Last year, Sen. Cornyn sent a letter to NADBank urging for the restoration of their Water Infrastructure Fund, raised alarms after a Rio Grande sugarcane mill closed due to acute water shortages, cosponsored a resolution supporting diplomacy, and sent a letter to then-U.S. Secretary of State Blinken urging the Department to engage on Mexico’s violation of the intent of the treaty. Senator Cornyn also led a letter to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on State and Foreign Operations urging them to withhold designated funds from Mexico until they enter into an agreement with the U.S. to balance the deficit of the water deliveries, which the House Appropriations Committee included in their funding bill. The Senator also introduced legislation in November to hold the Mexican government accountable for not meeting its water delivery requirements.

Under the Treaty Relating to the Utilization of Waters of the Colorado and Tijuana Rivers and of the Rio Grande, Mexico is obligated to deliver an average of 350,000 acre-feet of water annually over a five-year cycle as its contribution to the Rio Grande’s water supply. However, Mexico has consistently delayed fulfilling its water obligation until the end of the five-year cycle, which hinders South Texas farmers’ ability to plan for and grow crops as well as ranchers’ ability to provide water to livestock.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-cortez-masto-colleagues-outbound-investment-measures-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Cortez Masto, Colleagues’ Outbound Investment Measures Signed into Law",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Dave McCormick (R-PA), and Michael Bennet (D-CO), along with Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee Chairman Tim Scott (R-SC) and Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), released the following statements after their outbound investment measures to safeguard the United States’ national security against threats posed by countries of concern like China, Russia, and Iran by prohibiting and requiring notification of U.S. investments in certain technologies in such countries, was signed into law by President Trump as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):

“The need to address capital flowing from the U.S. to countries of concern was realized during the first Trump administration, and my legislation presents a generational opportunity to confront the threats China, Iran, North Korea and others pose to our national and economic security,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This landmark legislation will prohibit and require notification of U.S. investments in certain technologies in countries of concern, ensuring American ingenuity, innovation, and investment do not end up in the hands of adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party to be weaponized against us. I am grateful to colleagues past and present for their contributions to this effort, and I appreciate President Trump signing it into law as part of the annual defense bill.”

“I’m glad to see this critical bill I worked on alongside Senator Cornyn to protect our national security signed into law,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “The future of our national security is reliant on making sure we remain ahead of our adversaries in the race to develop cutting-edge technologies like AI and semiconductors, and this law will help ensure that American investments do not go toward helping Communist China develop these technologies.”

“This legislation takes a strong step in providing the Trump administration with the tools it needs to protect our national economic security. As Americans, we benefit immensely from our free markets and open investment environment. But we must ensure that we are not fueling the Chinese Communist Party’s efforts to undermine our military strength and national security,” said Senate Banking Committee Chairman Scott.

“This is an important step toward ensuring the United States remains the world’s leader in advanced technology. Our bipartisan bill will help ensure that we develop the most sensitive and cutting-edge technology here in America rather than supercharge its development in countries that do not share our values. I’ll keep fighting to protect our economic and national security from threats posed by China,” said Ranking Member Warren.

“Our military has long maintained a strong innovative and technological advantage over the Chinese Communist Party, but that advantage is eroded when American financial institutions invest in CCP-controlled companies developing technologies that could hand the future of warfare to America’s adversaries,” said Sen. Sullivan. “It is a shame Congress has to step in to instill some sense of patriotism into Wall Street, but our national security interests demand it. I applaud Senator Cornyn for leading this critically important legislation to make Americans safer at home and to maintain an arsenal of freedom that gives our men and women in uniform the edge they need to defend our interests around the world.”

“With the inclusion of Outbound provisions in the NDAA, the Senate has maintained its steadfast commitment to stopping the Chinese Communist Party’s development of advanced technology that threaten America’s national security. It is vital that we continue to prevent the harmful flow of U.S. investment into China for the development of technology like semiconductions, AI, and quantum computing,” said Democrat Leader Schumer. “I am proud to have championed this legislation that will help to protect our national security and ensure that the United States maintains a competitive edge in the critical technologies our military relies on.”

“American capital shouldn’t subsidize the growth of Communist China’s military and surveillance state,” said Sen. Ricketts. “The FIGHT China Act will address national security threats. It will protect American capital, intellectual property, and innovation from supporting Communist China’s malign ambitions.”

“Passing the FIGHT China Act into law will give us a critical leg up against competitors in the development of cutting-edge technologies and will help us better protect our nation’s security,” said Sen. Kim. “The successful bipartisan effort speaks to how vital it is that we ensure Americans’ investments do not bolster our competitors’ ability to threaten us.”

“China’s growing influence in emerging technologies poses a serious threat to our national and economic security,” said Sen. McCormick. “I’m pleased to see this commonsense legislation included in the NDAA and headed to the President’s desk. It will help prevent U.S. investment from supporting the Chinese Communist Party’s military modernization in artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing.”

“As China backs Russia’s war against Ukraine, hacks U.S. infrastructure, and threatens our allies and partners across the Indo-Pacific, we must prevent U.S. investments from fueling China’s development of advanced technologies with potential military uses,” said Sen. Bennet. “This important legislation will protect U.S. national security by screening and blocking these investments. I’m glad to see it become law.”

The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Jim Banks (R-IN), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), and John Fetterman (D-PA).

Background:

Building on Sen. Cornyn’s previous efforts to increase transparency and prohibit investments by American entities in sensitive technologies in China, and in conjunction with the Trump administration’s America First Investment Policy, the outbound investment measures included in the conferenced National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) would permit the Secretary of the Treasury to require notification of or prohibit U.S. investments in certain technologies in countries of concern, including:

The People’s Republic of China (PRC);

Cuba;

Iran;

North Korea;

Russia;

And the Maduro Regime.

Notifiable technology includes semiconductor technology and microelectronics, artificial intelligence (AI) systems, quantum information technologies, high-performance computing, and supercomputing hypersonic systems. Prohibited technology includes advanced semiconductor technology and microelectronics, artificial intelligence systems, quantum information technologies, high-performance computing and supercomputing hypersonic systems.

Lastly, the legislation would permit the Secretary of the Treasury to impose sanctions under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) against PRC entities that engage with the PRC military and intelligence sectors.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-kelly-bill-to-boost-military-service-recruiting-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Kelly Bill to Boost Military Service Recruiting Signed into Law",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) released the following statements after their bill to promote U.S. military recruiter access to secondary schools and attract the next generation of service members was signed into law by President Trump as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026:

“As the global threat landscape evolves and grows more complex, it’s vital that we attract, develop, and retain top talent to boost military readiness,” said Sen. Cornyn. “By expanding U.S. military recruiters’ access to high schools, we can enlist the next generation of advanced warfighters to serve under the bold leadership of President Trump and defend America’s interests at home and abroad.”

“When I was young, the U.S. Navy gave me purpose, direction, and the chance to be part of something much larger than myself. Our country needs more young people willing to step up, challenge themselves, and take advantage of these opportunities that come from military service,” said Sen. Kelly. “We’re making sure recruiters have fair access to schools so students who want to serve their country can get accurate information and a real path to do it.”

Background:

Sen. Cornyn championed these provisions in the NDAA FY26 to ensure U.S. military service recruiters have the same access to high schools as colleges and prospective employers, so students can fully understand the benefits of military service and pursue it as a viable path after graduation. A recent CRS report analyzed military recruitment and goals for bringing new personnel into the Armed Forces to ensure our nation has a trained, robust, and fully manned military workforce.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-whitehouse-colleagues-bill-to-equip-law-enforcement-with-trauma-kits-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Whitehouse, Colleagues’ Bill to Equip Law Enforcement with Trauma Kits Signed into Law",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statements after their Improving Police Critical Aid for Responding to Emergencies (CARE) Act, which will equip law enforcement officers with quality trauma kits so they can respond immediately if a civilian or fellow officer experiences a traumatic injury during a call, was signed into law by President Trump as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):

“When responding to medical emergencies, time and access to the right tools can mean the difference between life and death,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law will equip law enforcement officers with high-quality trauma kits to prevent deaths due to blood loss and give patients the best chance of survival.”

“Police officers serve on the frontlines in their communities every day, and they are often first on the scene in medical emergencies,” said Sen. Whitehouse. “Our bipartisan law will provide officers in the field with emergency trauma kits, and fund standardized training to allow them to better protect the public and save lives.”

“As a strong supporter of our brave men and women in law enforcement, I am proud to co-introduce the Improving Police CARE Act which would equip them with the tools they need to keep our communities safe,” said Sen. Tillis. “Ensuring law enforcement officers have effective trauma kits will save countless law enforcement and civilian lives.”

“All Americans are better off when law enforcement officers have the resources they need to do their jobs when emergencies strike,” said Sen. Coons. “As co-chair of the Senate Law Enforcement Caucus, I’m proud that this bipartisan, commonsense legislation will become law and more police officers will have the trauma kits they need to save lives.”

“It is imperative that law enforcement officers have the resources and training they need to save lives,” said Sen. Durbin. “Blood loss injuries are too often deadly, especially in rural areas where it can take longer for patients to receive emergency medical care. Now that the bill is signed into law, the bipartisan Improving Police CARE Act will establish standards for trauma kits used by law enforcement, ensuring that our officers have the right tools to respond to injuries immediately and continue to serve our communities.”

U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-SD), Ashley Moody (R-FL), and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) are cosponsors of the legislation.

Background:

Trauma kits play a vital role in preventing deaths due to blood loss. Between 30-40% of trauma-related deaths are caused by hemorrhaging, or uncontrolled bleeding, with 33-56% of them occurring before the patient arrives at the hospital. During the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts, tourniquets and tourniquet training were widely adopted by the military for their lifesaving potential in combat. This practice has since been embraced in civilian populations given its clear survival benefit. In fact, one study found that patient survival was six times more likely when a tourniquet was used, underscoring the critical need for timely bleeding control. This is especially true in rural areas where the average EMS response time is typically double that in urban areas. Having access to a trauma kit and early bleeding control can help bridge this gap and mean the difference between life and death.

The effectiveness of a law enforcement trauma kit program depends in part on the contents and the quality of the kits. Medical professionals recommend that a kit include bleeding control supplies like tourniquets, bandages, non-latex gloves, scissors, and instructions. However, there is enormous variation in the products available on the market.

The Improving Police Critical Aid for Responding to Emergencies (CARE) Act will:

Establish baseline standards in consultation with law enforcement and medical professionals for trauma kits purchased using grant funding under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG);

And require the development of optional best practices that law enforcement agencies can adapt for training law enforcement officers to use trauma kits and for deployment and maintenance of the kits in vehicles and government facilities.

The law is endorsed by the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA), National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), the Society of Trauma Nurses, the American College of Surgeons (ACS), and the American Trauma Society.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/pres-trump-signs-cornyn-bill-to-advance-defense-innovation-artificial-intelligence-into-law/,Pres. Trump Signs Cornyn Bill to Advance Defense Innovation & Artificial Intelligence into Law,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after his Growing University AI for Defense (GUARD) Act, which will codify a portion of President Trump’s AI Action Plan and enable the Department of War (DoW) to establish and lead a National Security and Defense AI Institute to advance defense innovation, workforce development, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) readiness, was signed into law by President Trump as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026:

“Our Senior Military Colleges already excel at preparing the next generation in warfighting capabilities, and now is the time to build on that success by answering President Trump’s call to create a hub for AI research, development, and talent acquisition at one of these prestigious institutions,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law will empower the Department of War to establish and lead a cutting-edge AI Institute so we can streamline integration of emerging technologies in our defense sector and maintain America’s decision-making advantage over foreign adversaries.”

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) is a cosponsor of this legislation, and Congressman Ronny Jackson (TX-13) led companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Background:

Under the first Trump administration, Congress passed the National AI Initiative, which authorized $500 million to develop new AI institutes. Building on these efforts, President Trump released an AI Action Plan in 2025 that included a renewed focus on developing AI talent for the Department of War (DoW), specifically calling to “Grow our Senior Military Colleges into hubs of AI research, development, and talent building, teaching core AI skills and literacy to future generations. Foster AI-specific curriculum, including in AI use, development, and infrastructure management, in the Senior Military Colleges throughout majors.”

Sen. Cornyn’s legislation codifies this provision in President Trump’s AI Action Plan by enabling the DoW to establish and lead a National Security and Defense AI Institute at a Senior Military College (SMC) in the United States.

The new AI Institute will bridge academic and government industry divides to streamline integration of advanced technologies for defense systems and intelligence services responses. Specifically, the National Security AI Institute will host testbeds for defense-related AI data management, reliable AI, and AI readiness that give the United States an enduring decision-making advantage. Senior Military Colleges play a central role in developing a skilled workforce capable of implementing these emerging technologies to strengthen national security and defense capabilities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-sheehy-introduce-bill-to-revoke-tax-exempt-status-of-cair-groups-bankrolling-terrorists/,"Cornyn, Sheehy Introduce Bill to Revoke Tax-Exempt Status of CAIR, Groups Bankrolling Terrorists",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Tim Sheehy (R-MT) introduced legislation that would allow the U.S. Department of the Treasury to terminate the tax-exempt status of groups like the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) that provide material support, such as finances, services, or training, to terrorist organizations. This comes as Texas announced its designation of CAIR as a foreign terrorist organization.

“I’m introducing legislation to strip CAIR of its tax-exempt status because no organization who bankrolls terrorists should get a tax break, period,” said Sen. Cornyn.“CAIR is a radical group of terrorist sympathizers with a long history of undermining American values and trying to unconstitutionally impose Sharia Law on Texas, which is why I stand behind Governor Abbott’s decision to designate it as a foreign terrorist organization. I also call on President Trump to do so at the federal level to ensure this breeding ground for anti-American hate is starved of funding and forced to close its doors once and for all.”

“Radical groups that support terrorists who chant ‘Death to America’ should not benefit from tax breaks to fund their extremist ideology,” said Sen. Sheehy. “I’m proud to support this America First, commonsense bill to remove the tax-exempt status for organizations that support terror groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and Al-Qaeda.”

U.S. Congressman David Kustoff (TN-08) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

Background:

Under current U.S. tax code, an entity’s tax-exempt status is suspended if it is designated by the U.S. Department of State as a terrorist organization, which includes groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and Al-Qaeda. This legislation would extend the current prohibition to include organizations that provide or have provided material support or resources, such as finances, services, or training, to a terrorist organization within the past three years. In addition, the bill would establish procedures for the IRS to provide notice to those organizations, for organizations to refute the designation, and for designations to be rescinded through administrative and judicial review.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/swingin-around-the-texas-christmas-tree/,Swingin’ Around the Texas Christmas Tree,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"When it’s Christmas time in Texas, as George Strait once sang, we’ll be swingin’ around the Christmas tree. In his hit holiday single, When It’s Christmas Time in Texas, Strait delves into what this festive time of year looks like for Texans. We may not always get snow, and it may feel more like a summer day for some, but it is still Christmas, nonetheless. One tradition that keeps the holiday spirit high in our household is the Christmas tree.

Going to pick out the family Christmas tree is a memorable holiday tradition for many Texans. Siblings fight over their favorite tree, one picking the fluffy, tall fir, the other picking the short pine, but somehow always ending up with the perfect tree. Even if it’s 70 degrees outside, the Christmas music makes the selection process feel magical.

It is activities like this that make Christmas in Texas so charming. As of 2022, it seems like most Texans agree. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Census of Agriculture, the Christmas tree industry in Texas is growing due to an increase in farm acreage, ongoing demand, and opportunities for new seed-improvement programs.

In 2017, Texas was home to 125 Christmas tree producers farming on 945 acres. Only five years later, the Department of Agriculture reported that there were 220 Christmas tree producers in Texas, farming on a remarkable 3,565 acres. One of our state’s largest Christmas tree farms is Old Time Christmas Tree Farm in Klein, Texas. The family farm manages more than 40,000 pine and cypress trees across 40 acres, each tree planted by hand.

There are many different types of Christmas trees, ranging from pine and cypress to fir and spruce. The most commonly grown Christmas tree in Texas is the Virginia Pine. This specific species has the perfect climatic adaptability, growth rate, and form to withstand the tough Texas terrain. The Virginia Pine is even known to be the “anchor species” of the Texas Christmas tree industry.

However, there’s a new tree on the scene that seeks to earn its place in your living room. Over the last decade, the Leland Cypress has been quietly growing in popularity. This tree is hypoallergenic and doesn’t drop its needles as fast as some other species, allowing you to spend less time cleaning and more time celebrating the holidays with friends and family.

As the demand for trees rises, small-scale operations are helping to keep your local Christmas tree farm stocked. According to the Department of Agriculture, roughly 66% of Texas’ Christmas tree farms are less than 10 acres in size. Many of these farms offer more than just Christmas trees. At some, you’ll find an entirely immersive Christmas experience, including light shows, hot chocolate, music, fake snow, and even Santa Claus himself!

As a Texan, we know that our farmers and ranchers are the backbone of the Lone Star State. Christmas tree farms play a huge role not only in special holiday memories but also in our agriculture community, and many families rely on Christmas tree sales for their livelihood. Family-owned Christmas tree farms work hard to produce the trees that Texans love and the joyous seasonal spirit that brings communities together.

When you are picking out your Texas-grown tree this season and decorating it with ornaments, ribbons, and lights, know that your tree is more than just a collection of branches and needles – it is pure Texas Christmas spirit. Our Texas Christmas tree farms are keeping family traditions alive and helping Texans make memories for many Christmases to come.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-cruz-secures-critical-provisions-for-texas-in-fy26-ndaa,Sen. Cruz Secures Critical Provisions for Texas in FY26 NDAA,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement after the Senate passed the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The bill advanced key national security priorities for Texans, including Texas bases and military communities.

Sen. Cruz said, “I was honored to author several provisions in this bill that enhance Texas’s position as the critical state in protecting America’s national security, and that more broadly enhance the national security and prosperity of Americans.

“I am particularly proud to have authored language maintaining B-1 bomber operations at Dyess Air Force Base through 2030, strengthening Coast Guard programs, and modernizing Red River Depot into a premier hub for drone systems. The NDAA provides our military bases and servicemembers with modernized technology, advanced equipment, essential resources, and a 3.8 percent pay raise for military members. These investments strengthen our national security and support Texas communities and military families.

“I’m proud of the priorities for Texas included in this year’s NDAA, and I will continue to fight for our servicemembers and ensure America continues to show peace through strength.”

This year’s NDAA included language to bolster America’s national defense and support servicemembers around the world, including at military bases across Texas. It included 10 provisions by Sen. Cruz:

The B-1 Protection Act extends the existing prohibition on reductions to the B-1B bomber fleet through September 30, 2030, ensuring that the mission of Dyess Air Force Base—home to one of the largest concentrations of B-1 assets in the United States Air Force—is preserved.

Small-UAS Industrial Base Working Group and SkyFoundry Authorization intends to modernize and transform Red River Army Depot (RRAD) into the nation’s premier organic industrial base hub for small, unmanned aircraft systems (s-UAS), allowing the Department of War to rapidly develop, produce, and field s-UAS at scale.

The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 authorizes programs and activities to strengthen the Coast Guard’s critical mission of protecting America’s borders, facilitating maritime commerce, enhancing deterrence, and improving support for Coast Guard personnel and their families. Chairman Cruz previously championed the largest investment in Coast Guard history through the Commerce Committee’s title in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

The Maritime Drug Law Enforcement Act ensures that drug traffickers who utilize remote-controlled or autonomous vessels to smuggle illegal narcotics can be prosecuted for drug trafficking.

MILCON: Dyess B-21 Low Observable Corrosion Facility & Mission Planning Facility prepares Dyess Air Force Base to receive the B-21 Bomber. The Low Observable Corrosion facility is a specialized maintenance facility designed to preserve the stealth capabilities of the aircraft. The Mission Planning Facility will provide secure operations planning space in support of B-21 operations.

MILCON: The Mission Planning Facility provides secure operations planning space in support of B-21 operations.

MILCON: Dyess Gate Repairs improves perimeter gates, which pose significant security and operational risks. These critical infrastructure upgrades are essential to host nuclear-capable B-21 aircraft and support Dyess AFB’s nuclear mission.

FLRAA Product Acceleration Act authorizes the Secretary of the Army to accelerate the procurement of the future long-range assault aircraft by initiating early production of not more than 24 such aircraft, and for other purposes.

Clarification of Land Conveyance provision removes restrictive language in the FY 2005 National Defense Authorization Act, allowing the Texas A&M University System to establish a university on the conveyed property without unnecessary constraints.

Limitation on use of funds for deactivation of Expeditionary Combat prohibits funds from being used towards deactivating Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigades (ECABs) until the Department of War (DoW) submits a plan to address any operational capability gaps that could result from their deactivation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-cortez-masto-colleagues-outbound-investment-measures-pass-senate-head-to-president-trumps-desk-to-become-law/,"Cornyn, Cortez Masto, Colleagues’ Outbound Investment Measures Pass Senate, Head to President Trump’s Desk to Become Law",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Dave McCormick (R-PA), and Michael Bennet (D-CO), along with Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee Chairman Tim Scott (R-SC) and Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), released the following statements after their outbound investment measures to safeguard the United States’ national security against threats posed by countries of concern like China, Russia, and Iran by prohibiting and requiring notification of U.S. investments in certain technologies in such countries, passed the Senate as part of the conferenced National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):

“The need to address capital flowing from the U.S. to countries of concern was realized during the first Trump administration, and my legislation presents a generational opportunity to confront the threats China, Iran, North Korea and others pose to our national and economic security,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This landmark legislation would prohibit and require notification of U.S. investments in certain technologies in countries of concern, ensuring American ingenuity, innovation, and investment do not end up in the hands of adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party to be weaponized against us. I’m proud this long-awaited effort is approaching the finish line and am grateful to colleagues past and present for their contributions to this effort, and I look forward to President Trump signing it into law as part of the annual defense bill.”

“The future of our national security is reliant on making sure we remain ahead of our adversaries in the race to develop cutting-edge technologies like AI and semiconductors,” said Sen. Cortez Masto. “To do so, we must make sure no American investments go toward helping Communist China develop these technologies. I’ve been proud to work alongside Senator Cornyn to ensure the United States meets this moment head on, and I look forward to these provisions finally becoming law.”

“This legislation takes a strong step in providing the Trump administration with the tools it needs to protect our national economic security. As Americans, we benefit immensely from our free markets and open investment environment. But we must ensure that we are not fueling the Chinese Communist Party’s efforts to undermine our military strength and national security,” said Senate Banking Committee Chairman Scott.

“This is an important step toward ensuring the United States remains the world’s leader in advanced technology. Our bipartisan bill will help ensure that we develop the most sensitive and cutting-edge technology here in America rather than supercharge its development in countries that do not share our values. I’ll keep fighting to protect our economic and national security from threats posed by China,” said Ranking Member Warren.

“Our military has long maintained a strong innovative and technological advantage over the Chinese Communist Party, but that advantage is eroded when American financial institutions invest in CCP-controlled companies developing technologies that could hand the future of warfare to America’s adversaries,” said Sen. Sullivan. “It is a shame Congress has to step in to instill some sense of patriotism into Wall Street, but our national security interests demand it. I applaud Senator Cornyn for leading this critically important legislation to make Americans safer at home and to maintain an arsenal of freedom that gives our men and women in uniform the edge they need to defend our interests around the world.”

“With the inclusion of Outbound provisions in the NDAA, the Senate has maintained its steadfast commitment to stopping the Chinese Communist Party’s development of advanced technology that threaten America’s national security. It is vital that we continue to prevent the harmful flow of U.S. investment into China for the development of technology like semiconductions, AI, and quantum computing,” said Democrat Leader Schumer. “I am proud to have championed this legislation that will help to protect our national security and ensure that the United States maintains a competitive edge in the critical technologies our military relies on.”

“American capital shouldn’t subsidize the growth of Communist China’s military and surveillance state,” said Sen. Ricketts. “The FIGHT China Act will address national security threats. It will protect American capital, intellectual property, and innovation from supporting Communist China’s malign ambitions.”

“This is a common-sense measure that strengthens our national security toolkit to address new challenges created by emerging technology,” said Sen. Kim. “With this legislation, we can have the visibility we need into American investments in strategic sectors to look out for our nation’s security, and strengthen our defense against evolving threats, including by competitors like China who use these investments against us.”

“China’s growing influence in emerging technologies poses a serious threat to our national and economic security,” said Sen. McCormick. “I’m pleased to see this commonsense legislation included in the NDAA and headed to the President’s desk. It will help prevent U.S. investment from supporting the Chinese Communist Party’s military modernization in artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing.”

“As China backs Russia’s war against Ukraine, hacks U.S. infrastructure, and threatens our allies and partners across the Indo-Pacific, we must prevent U.S. investments from fueling China’s development of artificial intelligence, advanced semiconductors, hypersonics, and other technologies with potential military uses,” said Sen. Bennet. “This legislation will protect U.S. national security by screening and blocking these investments.”

The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Jim Banks (R-IN), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), and John Fetterman (D-PA).

Background:

Building on Sen. Cornyn’s previous efforts to increase transparency and prohibit investments by American entities in sensitive technologies in China, and in conjunction with the Trump administration’s America First Investment Policy, the outbound investment measures included in the conferenced National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) would permit the Secretary of the Treasury to require notification of or prohibit U.S. investments in certain technologies in countries of concern, including:

The People’s Republic of China (PRC);

Cuba;

Iran;

North Korea;

Russia;

And the Maduro Regime.

Notifiable technology includes semiconductor technology and microelectronics, artificial intelligence (AI) systems, quantum information technologies, high-performance computing, and supercomputing hypersonic systems. Prohibited technology includes advanced semiconductor technology and microelectronics, artificial intelligence systems, quantum information technologies, high-performance computing and supercomputing hypersonic systems.

Lastly, the legislation would permit the Secretary of the Treasury to impose sanctions under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) against PRC entities that engage with the PRC military and intelligence sectors.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-supported-defense-bill-passes-senate-3/,Cornyn-Supported Defense Bill Passes Senate,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, the Senate passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026, which includes multiple wins for Texas and legislation authored by U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) that will benefit Texas service members and military installations, as well as support ongoing national security efforts:

“As our world becomes increasingly dangerous, it’s never been more imperative for the United States to ensure proper resources are available to bolster our defense capabilities and readiness to address emerging threats,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation includes several of my provisions, including legislation I authored to prohibit American investment in certain technologies in China, Iran, North Korea, and other foreign adversaries, and I am glad it is heading to President Trump’s desk.”

Sen. Cornyn’s Legislation Included in the NDAA:

Comprehensive Outbound Investment National Security (COINS) Act (formerly known as the Foreign Investment Guardrails to Help Thwart (FIGHT) China Act): Safeguards the United States against the growing threat posed by the People’s Republic of China by prohibiting and requiring notification of U.S. investment in certain technologies in China, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Russia, and Venezuela.

Improving Police Critical Aid for Responding to Emergencies (CARE) Act: Equips law enforcement officers with quality trauma kits so they can respond immediately if a civilian or fellow officer experiences a traumatic injury during a call.

Partnership for Advancing Regional Training and Narcotics Enforcement Response Strategies (PARTNERS) Act: Requires the Department of War (DoW) to recommend future additional joint training with Mexican military forces to combat cartels.

Counternarcotics Enhancement Act: Directs the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to develop an action plan to enhance counternarcotics collaboration, coordination, and cooperation between the U.S. and Mexico.

Growing University AI for Defense (GUARD) Act: Codifies a portion of President Trump’s AI Action Plan and enables the Department of War (DoW) to establish and lead a National Security and Defense AI Institute to advance defense innovation, workforce development, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) readiness.

Disinterment of Fernando V. Cota from Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery: Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to disinter Fernando V. Cota, an alleged serial murderer and convicted rapist, from Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery at the request of the son of one of his alleged victims.

Provisions to modernize the U.S. nuclear security enterprise by directing a focused effort on the safety and security of U.S. nuclear infrastructure through the upgrading of aging facilities.

Provisions to enhance U.S. military recruiters’ access to secondary schools to ensure military recruiters have as equal access to high schools as colleges and employers do, ensuring prospective recruits understand the benefits of military service.

Other Texas-Specific Provisions Include:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-touts-working-families-tax-cuts-will-make-life-more-affordable-for-texans/,Cornyn Touts Working Families Tax Cuts: Will Make ‘Life More Affordable’ for Texans,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) touted the benefits of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, also known as the Working Families Tax Cuts, which will put money back into the pockets of hardworking Texans and help ease the financial burden facing Americans after 40-year high inflation under the Biden administration. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.

“In November, the American people delivered a clear message that the Biden administration, who presided over 40-year high inflation, was taking the country in the wrong direction.”

“Everything cost more than 20% more from the time President Biden took office to the time he left.”

“The good news is Republicans have taken important steps that will help ease the affordability crunch for all Americans, particularly when it comes time to file their taxes next year.”

“This legislation will help Americans keep more of what they earn by lowering taxes across the board, and not a single Senate Democrat voted for it. Essentially, by voting against it, they voted for a $3,000 tax increase on most families back in Texas.”

“Twelve million Texas families who claim the standard deduction each year would have had to pay an additional $7,450 in taxes next spring without that legislation having passed. The lower rates from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act from 2017 were set to expire at the end of this year, but the Working Families Tax Cuts made these lower rates permanent.”

“If you’ve only been listening to our Democratic colleagues, you’d be forgiven for thinking Republicans have done nothing to address the cost of health care in this country, but that’s not true. In the Working Families Tax Cuts, we expanded access to Health Savings Accounts, also known as HSAs.”

“There’s a lot more work that needs to be done, and I look forward to working with all of our colleagues next year to continuing to develop policy solutions that will lower costs for patients and families, but one of the things that we should not, and we must not, and we will not do is expand the fraud-riddled Obamacare enhanced subsidies that were provided during the Biden administration.”

“Employees and self-employed individuals can now deduct up to $25,000 on qualified tip income through 2028. Next time you go to a restaurant or a bar, why don’t you ask the wait staff what they think about President Trump’s No Tax on Tips and No Tax on Overtime? I’ve done that, and it’s no surprise, they welcome that with open arms.”

“There’s still more work to be done, but I believe Republicans have delivered an important first step toward making life more affordable for the people we represent.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-cruz-senate-passage-of-rotor-act-a-key-step-for-aviation-safety,Sen. Cruz: Senate Passage of ROTOR Act a Key Step for Aviation Safety,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee, praised the passage of the bipartisan ROTOR Act as a step forward for aviation safety and a measure that honors the victims of the January 29th fatal crash near DCA. Almost a year after the accident, the ROTOR Act – which the Senate passed by unanimous consent Wednesday – tightens the rules for military aircraft, requiring them to transmit precise location information to avert future collisions. Senator Cruz also announced the ROTOR Act now has the backing of the White House, and the administration committed to help work with House colleagues to see that the ROTOR Act is passed into law.

Upon passage, Sen. Cruz said, “This bill will be a fitting way to honor the lives of those lost nearly one year ago over the Potomac River. The goal of the victims’ families is to ensure no one else endures a similar avoidable, completely unnecessary, tragedy. The ROTOR Act will save lives.”

The families of Flight 5342 said, “Today, the Senate passed the bipartisan ROTOR Act unanimously, marking an important step toward improving air travel safety. We extend our deepest gratitude to Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz and Ranking Member Maria Cantwell, in addition to Senate Aviation Subcommittee Chairman Jerry Moran and Ranking Member Tammy Duckworth, for their leadership and commitment to making our skies safer for all. We now call upon the House of Representatives to swiftly pass this legislation and deliver it to the President’s desk to be signed into law before January 29, 2026 – the one-year anniversary of our loved ones’ passing.”

Tim and Sheri Lilley, parents of the First Officer of Flight 5342 said, “We are deeply appreciative of the bipartisan effort that led to today’s Senate passage of the ROTOR Act. We are grateful for the leadership and tireless efforts of Senators Cruz and Cantwell to achieve this important milestone. We thank President Trump for his support of aviation safety and for recognizing the urgency of this moment. With this important action, Senators across the aisle honored the 67 lives lost on January 29, including our son Sam. While no legislation can bring Sam back, today’s action acknowledges the magnitude of that loss and affirms that meaningful change can come from it. We urge the House to act promptly and ensure these safety measures advance without delay. The flying public and all who rely on our national airspace deserve nothing less.”

BACKGROUND

The ROTOR Act requires all aircraft, civil and military, to equip and receive ADS-B broadcasting signals. The bill also directs the FAA to comprehensively evaluate the safety of airspaces around airports across the country so that no other airspace has the same risk of collisions as DCA did on January 29, 2025, and it improves aviation safety information sharing between the FAA and the military. Finally, the updated ROTOR Act strips section 373(a) from the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which would have widened the loophole that allows military helicopters to operate in DC airspace without broadcasting their location.

On January 29, 2025, American Airlines Flight 5342 and a Black Hawk military helicopter collided midair near DCA, tragically claiming 67 lives. Since then, there have been discoveries of known safety gaps.

In July 2025, Sen. Cruz introduced the ROTOR Act along with Sens. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation, Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Shelly Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-bill-to-vet-unaccompanied-alien-children-prevent-placement-of-uacs-with-criminal-sponsors-passes-house/,Cornyn Bill to Vet Unaccompanied Alien Children & Prevent Placement of UACs with Criminal Sponsors Passes House,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after his Kayla Hamilton Act, which would require the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct thorough background and criminal record checks on unaccompanied alien children (UACs) and potential sponsors prior to their placement, passed the U.S House of Representatives. This legislation is named in honor of Kayla Hamilton, a young woman who was sexually assaulted and brutally murdered by a 17-year-old MS-13 gang member and UAC who illegally entered the country through the southern border and was released by the Biden administration to a sponsor.

“The Biden-Harris border crisis allowed for countless unvetted aliens to flood into the country and harm innocent Americans, and I am glad the House has passed my legislation named in honor of Kayla Hamilton to fix this vetting loophole,” said Sen. Cornyn. “We owe it to Kayla and other victims of senseless tragedies to ensure comprehensive background and criminal record checks are conducted on unaccompanied alien children and potential sponsors prior to their placement, and I am glad we are one step closer to ensuring more thorough vetting is the law of the land.”

Additional cosponsors include Sens. Ted Cruz (R-TX), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), and Thom Tillis (R-NC). Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) introduced this legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Background:

The Kayla Hamilton Act would require thorough background and criminal record checks on UACs prior to their release to a sponsor and prohibit the release of any UAC into the custody of criminals or illegal aliens. The bar to placement applies not only to individuals seeking to sponsor a UAC, but also any adult living in the household of the potential sponsor who has a criminal history.

The bill also requires the federal government to:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-blumenthal-lee-kennedy-bill-to-prosecute-ai-generated-csam-passes-senate-unanimously/,"Cornyn, Blumenthal, Lee, Kennedy Bill to Prosecute AI-Generated CSAM Passes Senate Unanimously",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mike Lee (R-UT), and John Kennedy (R-LA) released the following statements after their Enhancing Necessary Federal Offenses Regarding Child Exploitation (ENFORCE) Act, which would hold those who use generative AI to create or distribute Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) and obscenity accountable by ensuring they are subject to the same statutory penalties as those who create or distribute other forms of child pornography, passed the Senate unanimously:

“Outdated laws are no excuse for letting vile child abusers off the hook,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would update current law to hold those who use AI to create and distribute CSAM accountable, and I’m glad to see it pass the Senate unanimously.”

“This bill is deeply important to protecting our children from child sexual abuse material, which is rampant on the internet. As technology advances, we know that the methods of abuse also change,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “I’m glad this important bill has moved through the Senate today. I hope our colleagues in the House of Representatives will stand with us and adopt the ENFORCE Act so we can take effective law enforcement action against these hideous abusers of children. There is no excuse for delay or inaction. The lives of our children are at stake.”

“Online predators victimize children through AI-generated imagery,” said Sen. Lee. “Such filth is not protected speech, and I am proud to cosponsor the ENFORCE Act to empower federal prosecutors to defend our kids against AI exploitation and hold predators fully accountable. This bipartisan effort strengthens the TAKE IT DOWN Act signed by President Trump to protect America’s children from explicit deepfakes.”

“Child predators are resorting to more advanced technology than ever to escape justice, so Congress must work to close every legal loophole that these criminals exploit. I’m proud that the U.S. Senate is doing just that by passing the ENFORCE Act, which would help law enforcement fight the animals creating deepfake content of America’s kids,” said Sen. Kennedy.

Background:

In recent years, child safety researchers have noted a rise in the use of visual generative machine learning models to create highly realistic CSAM and obscenity. And while there is legislation to protect victims from this growing online threat, more must be done to hold offenders accountable to the fullest extent of the law. The ENFORCE Act would ensure offenders who use generative AI to produce and distribute CSAM and obscenity are subject to the same statutory penalties as those who create or distribute other forms of child pornography by making the following changes to the U.S. criminal code:

Clarifying and updating the definition of “modified” CSAM;

And equating the collateral consequences of the child obscenity statute with the CSAM statute.

This legislation is endorsed by The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), Raven, Thorn, the National Children’s Alliance, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), Rights 4 Girls, and the National District Attorneys Association (NDAA).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-sounds-alarm-to-hhs-on-california-companys-embryonic-gene-editing-technology/,Cornyn Sounds Alarm to HHS on California Company’s Embryonic Gene-Editing Technology,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. raising concerns over reports of the gene-editing company Preventive working on technology that would allow them to create a child born from a gene-edited embryo, raising serious ethical and legal concerns:

Sen. Cornyn wrote, “While some will argue that the goal of genetically editing embryos is only to prevent genetic diseases in babies before they are even born, we must also acknowledge the real risk that such a technology will lead to ‘designer children,’ where parents, or others, can select their preferred traits for their children.”

“Scientific advancement cannot devolve into evil and immoral eugenic practices. Efforts to improve embryos will also lead to the impulse to destroy embryos, human life, who do not possess the full measure of these preferred traits,” he continued.

“All parents want their children to live the healthiest lives possible, but advancing this type of technology would come with grave consequences, intentional or not. Some of life’s questions must be left up to our Creator, not Silicon Valley elites,” he concluded.

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

The Honorable Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.

Secretary

Department of Health and Human Services

200 Independence Ave S.W.

Washington, D.C. 20201

Dear Secretary Kennedy:

I am writing to you to express my deep concern regarding recent news about a company, Preventive, which was first reported in a Wall Street Journal article on November 8, 2025. Preventive is reportedly working on technology that will allow them to create a child born from a gene-edited embryo. This raises serious ethical and legal questions.

Gene therapy technology has the potential to open doors to life-changing and life-saving measures for children and adults otherwise suffering from terrible conditions, like sickle cell disease, neuromuscular diseases, and certain cancers. However, these types of therapies must be differentiated from embryonic gene editing.

While some will argue that the goal of genetically editing embryos is only to prevent genetic diseases in babies before they are even born, we must also acknowledge the real risk that such a technology will lead to “designer children,” where parents, or others, can select their preferred traits for their children. Scientific advancement cannot devolve into evil and immoral eugenic practices. Efforts to improve embryos will also lead to the impulse to destroy embryos, human life, who do not possess the full measure of these preferred traits.

Congress has made clear that federal research funding must not be used for genetically modifying human embryos, and the Food and Drug Administration cannot review applications for human trials if they involve embryo editing. This is also in line with the policy of our counterparts around the world, including in the European Union, Mexico, and Canada. I ask that you use your authority and work with the Department of Justice to ensure any companies operating in the U.S. and using human gene-editing technology are following all applicable laws.

All parents want their children to live the healthiest lives possible, but advancing this type of technology would come with grave consequences, intentional or not. Some of life’s questions must be left up to our Creator, not Silicon Valley elites.

Can you confirm that Preventive is following all Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) regulation relating to gene-editing technology?

What steps is HHS taking to ensure companies in this field are fully complying with the law?

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter, and please do not hesitate to contact my office if we can support your efforts in this area.

Sincerely,

U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX)",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/on-fox-cornyn-praises-trump-admins-venezuela-boat-strikes-condemns-rise-in-antisemitism-slams-dems-unaffordable-care-act/,"On Fox, Cornyn Praises Trump Admin’s Venezuela Boat Strikes, Condemns Rise in Antisemitism, Slams Dems’ Unaffordable Care Act",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today on Fox News’ The Faulkner Focus, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) praised the Trump administration, including Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, for its handling of the Venezuela boat strikes following a Senate-wide briefing, condemned the Australia terror attack and rise in antisemitism, and blasted Democrats for trying to deflect blame for the abject failures of Obamacare. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.

On Administration’s Briefing on Venezuela Boat Strikes:

“The briefers, Secretary Rubio, Secretary Hegseth, and others did a good job of explaining the careful planning that went into these strikes and the legal justification, which is consistent, as Senator Graham has said, with other previous interventions by other administrations in the region. Cocaine, fentanyl – these are weapons of mass destruction being trafficked by designated terrorist organizations.”

“I was satisfied with what I heard and I’m glad President Trump is doing what needs to be done in order to save American lives.”

On Australia Terror Attack:

“Tragically, this is another horrible reminder there are sleeper cells of basically terrorists that have either been radicalized overseas or have been radicalized in place, who are willing to kill innocent people, and of course, in this instance, targeting the Jewish community.”

“There has been a rise of antisemitism that needs to be rebuked by the Left and the Right because it is unacceptable.”

“This is a very sad, sad occasion, but it unfortunately means we need to maintain our vigilance. Thank goodness here in the United States, the FBI and the Department of Justice are doing a good job disrupting terrorist plots, but this could happen anywhere.”

On Democrats’ Health Care Lies:

“Democrats are trying to deflect the blame. They are the ones that created this situation, where the premiums and the Affordable Care Act or Obamacare exchanges are going up 18% this next year. That’s unsustainable.”

“President Trump is correct to say let’s send the money to the consumer and not to the insurance companies.”

“We need to continue to hold the Democrats’ feet to the fire because they created this mess in the first place, but now we’re all obligated to try to fix it.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-cruz-releases-statement-on-guilty-verdict-against-jimmy-lai,Sen. Cruz Releases Statement On Guilty Verdict Against Jimmy Lai,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement after the announcement of a guilty verdict by the Hong Kong High Court against Jimmy Lai.

In 2019, Sen. Cruz was in Hong Kong and met Jimmy Lai and other pro-democracy dissidents, before he was arrested. Earlier this month, Sen. Cruz met with the family of Jimmy Lai, where he discussed the persecution by the Chinese Communist Party and his ongoing wrongful detention.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-sens-cruz-ossoff-bill-to-extend-civil-rights-cold-case-review-board-term,"Senate Unanimously Passes Sens. Cruz, Ossoff Bill to Extend Civil Rights Cold Case Review Board Term",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), a member of the Judiciary Committee, and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) released the following statement after their Civil Rights Cold Cases Records Collection Reauthorization Act passed the Senate.

Sen. Cruz said, “Civil rights cold case victims and their families deserve justice. Giving the review board more time to investigate these unsolved cases is essential to delivering long-overdue accountability. I am thankful to my colleagues in the Senate for passing this important bipartisan measure, and I call on my colleagues in the House to move quickly to pass this bill so the review board can continue its work.”

Sen. Ossoff said, “We must continue working for justice for these victims, for these survivors, for these families, especially the families of those who were killed, and continue our work to safeguard civil and human rights in the United States.”

Read the full text of the bill here.

BACKGROUND

This bill would extend the term of the Civil Rights Cold Case Review Board by four years. The board is tasked with investigating criminal investigations from the Civil Rights Era, led by a panel of private citizens appointed by the President.

In 2022, Sens. Cruz and Ossoff wrote and passed into law the Civil Rights Cold Case Investigations Support Act of 2022, which extended the board.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-carter-colleagues-call-for-investigation-into-mishandling-of-army-physician-allegations/,"Cornyn, Carter, Colleagues Call For Investigation into Mishandling of Army Physician Allegations",2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Last week, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and Congressman John Carter (TX-31) led a letter calling for the Department of the Army Inspector General and the Department of War Inspector General to conduct independent investigations into the mishandling of allegations of sexual misconduct involving Major Blaine McGraw and requesting information about what resources are being provided to the victims and what steps the Army intends to take moving forward to prevent an incident like this from happening again:

“The Army and Department of War Inspector Generals must conduct an investigation into the systemic failures that allowed Major Blaine McGraw to continue in his capacity amidst multiple accusations of egregious sexual misconduct,” said Sen. Cornyn. “The allegations made against Major McGraw and how they were mishandled warrant a thorough investigation, and I implore the Army and the Department to promptly look into this matter, bring justice to his countless victims, and work to prevent another failing in the future.”

Additional signatories include Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Representative August Pfluger (TX-11). A copy of the letter can be found here and below.

Lieutenant General Gregory D. Brady

The Inspector General Department of the Army

1700 Army Pentagon, Room 3E588

Washington, D.C. 20310-1700

December 11, 2025

Dear Lieutenant General Brady,

I am writing to request immediate and comprehensive action regarding the deeply disturbing allegations involving Major McGraw, a former Army physician in Texas. The reports indicating widespread misconduct toward service members and military families raise profound concerns about clinical oversight, command accountability, and the integrity of the military health system.

These accusations do not reflect isolated lapses; they point to potential long-term failures. Because the alleged conduct may have occurred over an extended period and across multiple duty stations, it is imperative that any review extends far beyond a routine internal inquiry.

I urge you to ensure that the Department of War initiates an independent, thorough investigation into both Major McGraw’s actions and the Army’s handling of prior complaints or warning signs. This review must safeguard patient privacy, protect potential victims, and evaluate whether pathways for reporting medical misconduct were available and effective.

In addition, I request that the Department of War Office of Inspector General promptly examine how clinical, command, and Defense Health Agency oversight structures failed to identify and intervene in this case. A transparent assessment of systemic shortcomings, and actionable recommendations to strengthen standards of care and accountability will be essential to restoring trust within the military community.

To support the Department’s review and to ensure transparency for those affected, I request answers to the following questions:

Will the Department ensure a comprehensive investigation into all allegations involving Major McGraw, including an assessment of the Army command climate, supervisory actions, and compliance with applicable medical and reporting policies at each installation where he served?

What trauma-informed resources, victim assistance programs, and behavioral health services will the Department and the Army make available to former patients and their families during the investigative process?

Has the Department notified the Texas Medical Board or other relevant state licensing authorities of Major McGraw’s suspension and the ongoing criminal investigation? If not, when will such notification occur?

Will the Department commit to identifying any systemic or oversight failures that enabled this alleged misconduct, and provide a plan for implementing corrective actions to prevent similar breakdowns in the future?

Will the Department review oversight, supervision, and reporting requirements within Defense Health Agency Graduate Medical Education programs to ensure trainees are appropriately monitored and patient safety is protected?

Will the Department review the conduct and reporting actions of medical supervisors and personnel who worked with Major McGraw to determine whether they fulfilled their obligations under Army and DoW policy?

What policies, reporting pathways, and oversight mechanisms will the Department and the DoW Inspector General review to ensure that patients who experience misconduct by military medical providers can report concerns safely and with confidence that their complaints will be addressed.

The men and women served by the military health system deserve confidence that their care is provided in an environment that prioritizes safety, accountability, and professionalism. I appreciate your attention to this urgent matter and request to be kept informed of the Department’s findings and next steps.

Sincerely,

/s/",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-colleagues-bill-to-help-adjust-military-life-insurance-for-inflation-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Colleagues’ Bill to Help Adjust Military Life Insurance for Inflation Signed into Law",2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Angus King (I-ME) and Representatives Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Keith Self (TX-03) released the following statements after their Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act, which will help ensure life insurance packages for service members and veterans account for increases in cost of living and inflation, was signed into law by President Trump:

“We need to make sure service members, veterans, and their families have the financial support they need and deserve,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I’m grateful to President Trump for his unwavering support of our brave men and women in uniform and for signing this bill into law, which will help ensure the Veterans Affairs Department can offer competitive life insurance packages that keep pace with the current cost of living.”

“While we can never fully repay the debt that we owe to those who serve our country, we should work each and every day to get them the benefits that they deserve,” said Sen. Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation will help ensure that the life insurance offered for our veterans and servicemembers is keeping pace with real-world costs to help protect the financial security of the families of those who serve.”

“We owe our servicemembers and their families a debt we can never repay, and we have a straightforward obligation to ensure they are financially secure,” said Sen. Cruz. “This bill brings us one step closer to fulfilling that goal, and I’m thankful to President Trump for signing into law.”

“Our servicemembers, veterans and their families make countless sacrifices every day to protect our nation, and we are indebted to their selfless service,” said Sen. King. “With the bipartisan Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act, we can ensure life insurance packages for military members adjust with the rising cost of living — giving more peace of mind to military families as they increasingly face the difficulties of an unstable economy. I’m grateful to my colleagues, and the President for signing a bill into law that honors our commitment to the brave men and women who have given so much to our country.”

“Our servicemembers put their lives on the line for their country and we must protect the well-being of their families in the event of a tragedy,” said Rep. Strickland. “This new law makes it clear that our nation will always stand by our military families.”

“I’m grateful to President Trump for standing with our military families and signing the Fairness for Servicemembers and Their Families Act into law,” said Rep. Self. “This commonsense bill ensures our veterans and their families receive the full value of the benefits they’ve earned by requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs to regularly review and adjust the maximum coverage for servicemembers’ and Veterans’ Group Life Insurance programs to keep pace with inflation—so these hard-earned benefits never lose value to rising costs.”

This legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI).

Background:

The Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act will help ensure the maximum group insurance available to service members and veterans account for increases in cost of living. From 2006 to 2023, the maximum insurance value available for service members and veterans remained static, lagging far behind inflation rates. This law will strengthen the financial safety net for veterans, service members, and their families by requiring a report to the U.S. Veterans Affairs Department, the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs regarding cost of living increases and inflation rates every five years to ensure they don’t go years without assessing inflation rates.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-del-valle-isd-to-receive-1m-to-boost-evidence-backed-mental-health-services-for-students/,Cornyn: Del Valle ISD to Receive $1M to Boost Evidence-Backed Mental Health Services for Students,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Education announced that Del Valle Independent School District was awarded a federal grant of $1,151,269 through the Mental Health Service Professional (MHSP) Demonstration Grant Program, which helps recruit, train, and employ mental health service providers in schools to address the mental health crisis affecting our youth and implement evidence-backed mental health services for students:

“Schools remain one of the most consistent and accessible places for students to receive mental health support, yet they often lack the appropriate staffing or resources necessary to adequately respond to the growing complexity of students’ needs,” said Sen. Cornyn. “These critical resources will help close this gap by increasing the recruitment, training, and retention of mental health professionals in schools, ensuring they are better equipped to identify signs of crisis.”

A significant portion of MHSP funding was authorized by Sen. Cornyn’s school safety and mental health legislation, which was signed into law in 2022 and is the largest investment in community-based mental health care in U.S. history. This award is one of 65 grant recipients that the Trump administration is encouraging to focus on “merit-based personnel hiring and evidence-based student services.” The purpose of the grants is to hire more school psychologists and to build the necessary infrastructure so the mental health resources can continue after the grant.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-region-one-to-receive-nearly-2m-to-boost-evidence-backed-mental-health-services-for-students/,Cornyn: Region One to Receive Nearly $2M to Boost Evidence-Backed Mental Health Services for Students,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Education announced that Region One Education Service Center was awarded a federal grant of $1,198,055 through the Mental Health Service Professional (MHSP) Demonstration Grant Program, which helps recruit, train, and employ mental health service providers in schools to address the mental health crisis affecting our youth and implement evidence-backed mental health services for students:

“Schools remain one of the most consistent and accessible places for students to receive mental health support, yet they often lack the appropriate staffing or resources necessary to adequately respond to the growing complexity of students’ needs,” said Sen. Cornyn. “These critical resources will help close this gap by increasing the recruitment, training, and retention of mental health professionals in schools, ensuring they are better equipped to identify signs of crisis.”

A significant portion of MHSP funding was authorized by Sen. Cornyn’s school safety and mental health legislation, which was signed into law in 2022 and is the largest investment in community-based mental health care in U.S. history. This award is one of 65 grant recipients that the Trump administration is encouraging to focus on “merit-based personnel hiring and evidence-based student services.” The purpose of the grants is to hire more school psychologists and to build the necessary infrastructure so the mental health resources can continue after the grant.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-san-antonio-schools-to-receive-more-than-600k-to-boost-evidence-backed-mental-health-services-for-students/,Cornyn: San Antonio Schools to Receive More Than $600K to Boost Evidence-Backed Mental Health Services for Students,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Education announced that Education Service Center, Region 20, which covers Bexar County and surrounding areas, was awarded a federal grant of $647,156 through the Mental Health Service Professional (MHSP) Demonstration Grant Program, which helps recruit, train, and employ mental health service providers in schools to address the mental health crisis affecting our youth and implement evidence-backed mental health services for students:

“Schools remain one of the most consistent and accessible places for students to receive mental health support, yet they often lack the appropriate staffing or resources necessary to adequately respond to the growing complexity of students’ needs,” said Sen. Cornyn. “These critical resources will help close this gap by increasing the recruitment, training, and retention of mental health professionals in schools, ensuring they are better equipped to identify signs of crisis.”

A significant portion of MHSP funding was authorized by Sen. Cornyn’s school safety and mental health legislation, which was signed into law in 2022 and is the largest investment in community-based mental health care in U.S. history. This award is one of 65 grant recipients that the Trump administration is encouraging to focus on “merit-based personnel hiring and evidence-based student services.” The purpose of the grants is to hire more school psychologists and to build the necessary infrastructure so the mental health resources can continue after the grant.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-cruz-cornyn-bipartisan-bill-to-modernize-military-life-insurance-signed-into-law,"Sens. Cruz, Cornyn Bipartisan Bill to Modernize Military Life Insurance Signed into Law",2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), and Angus King (I-Maine), and U.S. Reps. Keith Self (R-Texas-03) and Marilyn Strickland (D-Wash.-10) released the following statements after their bipartisan Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act was signed into law by President Trump. Law will ensure life insurance packages for servicemembers and veterans account for increases in cost of living.

Sen. Cruz said, “We owe our servicemembers and their families a debt we can never repay, and we have a straightforward obligation to ensure they are financially secure. This bill brings us one step closer to fulfilling that goal, and I’m thankful to President Trump for signing it into law.”

Sen. Cornyn said, “We need to make sure service members, veterans, and their families have the financial support they need and deserve. I’m grateful to President Trump for his unwavering support of our brave men and women in uniform and for signing this bill into law, which will help ensure the Veterans Affairs Department can offer competitive life insurance packages that keep pace with the current cost of living.”

Sen. Hassan said, “While we can never fully repay the debt that we owe to those who serve our country, we should work each and every day to get them the benefits that they deserve. This bipartisan legislation will help ensure that the life insurance offered for our veterans and servicemembers is keeping pace with real-world costs to help protect the financial security of the families of those who serve.”

Sen. King said, “Our servicemembers, veterans and their families make countless sacrifices every day to protect our nation, and we are indebted to their selfless service. With the bipartisan Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act, we can ensure life insurance packages for military members adjust with the rising cost of living — giving more peace of mind to military families as they increasingly face the difficulties of an unstable economy. I’m grateful to my colleagues, and the President for signing a bill into law that honors our commitment to the brave men and women who have given so much to our country.”

Rep. Keith Self said, “I’m grateful to President Trump for standing with our military families and signing the Fairness for Servicemembers and Their Families Act into law. This commonsense bill ensures our veterans and their families receive the full value of the benefits they’ve earned by requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs to regularly review and adjust the maximum coverage for servicemembers’ and Veterans’ Group Life Insurance programs to keep pace with inflation—so these hard-earned benefits never lose value to rising costs.”

Rep. Strickland said, “Our servicemembers put their lives on the line for their country and we must protect the well-being of their families in the event of a tragedy. This new law makes it clear that our nation will always stand by our military families.”

This legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii).

Click here to read the full bill text.

BACKGROUND

The Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act will help ensure the maximum group insurance available to servicemembers and veterans account for increases in cost of living. From 2006 to 2023, the maximum insurance value available for servicemembers and veterans remained static, lagging far behind inflation rates.

This law strengthens the financial security of veterans, servicemembers, and their families by requiring the U.S. Veterans Affairs Department to report to the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs regarding increased costs of living every five years.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-introduces-bill-to-advance-defense-innovation-artificial-intelligence/,"Cornyn, Cruz Introduce Bill to Advance Defense Innovation & Artificial Intelligence",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) introduced the Growing University AI for Defense (GUARD) Act, which would codify a portion of President Trump’s AI Action Plan and enable the Department of War (DoW) to establish and lead a National Security and Defense AI Institute to advance defense innovation, workforce development, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) readiness:

“Our Senior Military Colleges already excel at preparing the next generation in warfighting capabilities, and now is the time to build on that success by answering President Trump’s call to create a hub for AI research, development, and talent acquisition at one of these prestigious institutions,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would empower the Department of War to establish and lead a cutting-edge AI Institute so we can streamline integration of emerging technologies in our defense sector and maintain America’s decision-making advantage over foreign adversaries.”

“The Chinese Communist Party poses the most significant national security risk to the United States over the next century, and allowing the CCP to win the race to AI would be catastrophic for American interests. Winning that race requires developing a skilled AI workforce here in the United States, which in turn requires teaching core AI skills to students and strengthening U.S.-oriented AI capabilities. This legislation will deepen those efforts by expanding AI research and talent development at our senior military colleges and DoW research universities. I’m proud to join Sen. Cornyn in this effort and urge our colleagues to advance it expeditiously,” said Sen. Cruz.

Congressman Ronny Jackson (TX-13) is leading companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives, which passed earlier this week as part of the National Defense Authorization Act.

Background:

Under the first Trump administration, Congress passed the National AI Initiative, which authorized $500 million to develop new AI institutes. Building on these efforts, President Trump released an AI Action Plan in 2025 that included a renewed focus on developing AI talent for the Department of War (DoW), specifically calling to “Grow our Senior Military Colleges into hubs of AI research, development, and talent building, teaching core AI skills and literacy to future generations. Foster AI-specific curriculum, including in AI use, development, and infrastructure management, in the Senior Military Colleges throughout majors.”

Sen. Cornyn’s legislation would codify this provision in President Trump’s AI Action Plan by enabling the DoW to establish and lead a National Security and Defense AI Institute at a Senior Military College (SMC) in the United States.

The new AI Institute would bridge academic and government industry divides to streamline integration of advanced technologies for defense systems and intelligence services responses. Specifically, the National Security AI Institute will host testbeds for defense-related AI data management, reliable AI, and AI readiness that give the United States an enduring decision-making advantage. Senior Military Colleges play a central role in developing a skilled workforce capable of implementing these emerging technologies to strengthen national security and defense capabilities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cruz-cornyn-introduce-legislation-to-advance-defense-innovation-and-artificial-intelligence,"Sens. Cruz, Cornyn Introduce Legislation to Advance Defense Innovation and Artificial Intelligence",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) introduced the Growing University AI for Defense (GUARD) Act. The bill would codify a portion of President Trump’s AI Action Plan and enable the Department of War (DoW) to establish and lead a National Security and Defense AI Institute to advance defense innovation, workforce development, and artificial intelligence (AI) readiness.

Sen Cruz said, “The Chinese Communist Party poses the most significant national security risk to the United States over the next century, and allowing the CCP to win the race to AI would be catastrophic for American interests. Winning that race requires developing a skilled AI workforce here in the United States, which in turn requires teaching core AI skills to students and strengthening U.S.-oriented AI capabilities. This legislation will deepen those efforts by expanding AI research and talent development at our senior military colleges and DoW research universities. I’m proud to join Sen. Cornyn in this effort and urge our colleagues to advance it expeditiously.”

Sen Cornyn said, “Our Senior Military Colleges already excel at preparing the next generation in warfighting capabilities, and now is the time to build on that success by answering President Trump’s call to create a hub for AI research, development, and talent acquisition at one of these prestigious institutions. This legislation would empower the Department of War to establish and lead a cutting-edge AI Institute so we can streamline integration of emerging technologies in our defense sector and maintain America’s decision-making advantage over foreign adversaries.”

Congressman Ronny Jackson (R-Texas-13) is leading companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives, which passed earlier this week as part of the National Defense Authorization Act.

BACKGROUND

Under the first Trump administration, Congress passed the National AI Initiative, which authorized $500 million to develop new AI institutes.

Building on these efforts, President Trump released an AI Action Plan in 2025 that included a renewed focus on developing AI talent for the Department of War (DoW), specifically calling to “Grow our Senior Military Colleges into hubs of AI research, development, and talent building, teaching core AI skills and literacy to future generations. Foster AI-specific curriculum, including in AI use, development, and infrastructure management, in the Senior Military Colleges throughout majors.”

The new AI Institute would bridge academia, government, and industry, enabling faster and more effective integration of advanced AI technologies into defense systems and intelligence operations. The National Security AI Institute would host testbeds focused on defense-related AI data management, reliable and trustworthy AI, and operational AI readiness. These efforts would provide the United States with a decision-making advantage. Senior Military Colleges would play a central role by preparing a skilled workforce capable of deploying and maintaining these technologies in support of national security and defense missions.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-cruz-files-amicus-brief-defending-second-amendment-pushes-for-interstate-recognition-of-firearm-permits,"Sen. Cruz Files Amicus Brief Defending Second Amendment, Pushes for Interstate Recognition of Firearm Permits",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Federal Courts, Oversight, Agency Action, and Federal Rights, filed an amicus brief urging the Supreme Court to grant certiorari in Gardner v. Maryland. The brief advocates for expanding reciprocity for interstate firearm permit holders in keeping with the Second Amendment.

Excerpts from the amicus brief are below, and the full text of the brief can be viewed here.

“If the Second Amendment means anything, it must protect Americans who act in lawful self-defense while simply traveling on the public roads of the United States.

“This case presents an enormously important Second Amendment question about the self-defense rights of interstate travelers, one that has been given short shrift by federal and state courts. The right to self-defense means little if it ends a short distance from your door.

“The United States has long recognized the need to exempt travelers from gun control laws. The need for an exemption could not be clearer than for permitting schemes like Maryland’s that are outside the American historical tradition. This Court should reaffirm the analysis it required in Bruen and restore the right of the People to self-defense in interstate travel.”

Sen. Cruz was joined in filing the amicus brief by Sens. Jim Justice (R-W.V.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), and Ted Budd (R-N.C.).

BACKGROUND

In January 2021, Eva Marie Gardner, a Virginian with a valid concealed-carry permit, was driving through Maryland to her mother’s home in Pennsylvania when another driver rammed her car twice and forced her off the highway using a PIT maneuver. The driver approached Gardner’s vehicle, putting Gardner in fear of an imminent attack, and in response she displayed her handgun in an attempt to make him back away. When police arrived, they released the aggressor and arrested Gardner for possessing a loaded handgun in Maryland without a Maryland permit. The court rejected her self-defense and Second Amendment arguments and convicted her under Maryland law.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-cruz-kennedy-colleagues-introduce-pure-act,"Sens. Cruz, Kennedy, Colleagues Introduce PURE Act",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), John Kenned (R-La.), and colleagues introduced the Preventing Unnecessary Resource Expenditures (PURE) Act. The legislation gives law enforcement stronger, cleaner tools to combat meth trafficking by eliminating the obsolete legal distinction between pure and impure methamphetamine.

Upon introduction, Sen. Cruz said, “The distinction between pure and impure methamphetamine complicates enforcement and hampers justice. The PURE Act updates outdated rules so our criminal laws reflect modern science, strengthens the ability of law enforcement to pursue drug traffickers, and ensures the American legal system remains fair and clear. I am proud to join Senator Kennedy in introducing this legislation.”

Sen. Kennedy said, “Meth addiction is tearing families apart in Louisiana and across America. Our law enforcement officers should be able to fight this poison without having to jump through pointless, burdensome and expensive hoops. The PURE Act scraps outdated rules that waste precious time, burn through millions of taxpayer dollars and keep our communities less safe. I urge my colleagues to support this common-sense measure—it’s long overdue.”

This legislation was cosponsored by Sens. Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.).

Sen. Hagerty said, “The drug overdose epidemic is devastating communities across the United States. The PURE Act closes an antiquated loophole that burdens drug testing laboratories and delays justice. I’m pleased to support this effort to empower our prosecutors and hold methamphetamine dealers accountable.”

Sen. Graham said, “It should be easier for law enforcement to go after the people who bring dangerous drugs like meth into our communities – not harder. Meth is responsible for the destruction of countless lives, families and entire communities across the country, and it contributes to numerous other crimes. This legislation removes outdated standards and empowers law enforcement to adequately hold meth traffickers accountable. I’m glad to work with Senators Kennedy, Cruz and Hagerty on this necessary bill.”

Read the bill text here.

BACKGROUND

The PURE Act would:

Create a single, straightforward legal standard for methamphetamine—“meth mixture”—instead of separate standards for pure and impure meth.

Eliminate an outdated rule that wastes law enforcement resources and slows down prosecutions.

Ensure equal treatment under the law by removing a distinction that no longer reflects the reality of modern meth trafficking and replaces it with one standard that reflects the danger meth poses.

Reduce the burden on prosecutors and crime labs, freeing them to focus on building cases and protecting our communities.

The PURE Act brings federal law in line with today’s drug trafficking landscape, cuts unnecessary bureaucracy and strengthens law enforcement’s ability to take dangerous drug dealers off the streets.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-blumenthal-colleagues-bill-to-aid-recovery-of-nazi-confiscated-art-passes-senate/,"Cornyn, Blumenthal, Colleagues’ Bill to Aid Recovery of Nazi-Confiscated Art Passes Senate",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), John Fetterman (D-PA), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), and Katie Britt (R-AL) released the following statements after their Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery (HEAR) Act, which would aid in the recovery of Nazi-looted art and deliver justice for Holocaust survivors and their families, passed the Senate unanimously:

“The thousands of missing pieces of art looted from Jewish families by Hitler’s regime during the Holocaust are a painful reminder of a time when cruelty and hatred reigned,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation renews our commitment to Holocaust survivors and their families by ensuring cases are heard on their merit, offering a path to restitution and assurance that such injustices are never forgotten.”

“The theft of art by the Nazi regime was more than a pilfering of property—it was an act of inhumanity,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “Our bipartisan effort seeks to strengthen measures to bring long overdue justice to families whose cherished art was brazenly stolen by the Nazis.”

“This legislation helps to right a historic wrong committed during one of the darkest chapters in history,” said Sen. Tillis. “By eliminating unnecessary legal obstacles, the HEAR Act establishes a clear path to restitution for Holocaust survivors and their families, ensuring that art and cultural property stolen by the Nazis can finally be returned to their rightful owners.”

“Despite decades’ long efforts by the United States and allies to return Nazi-looted art to Holocaust victims and their heirs, over 100,000 works of art have yet to be recovered and returned to their rightful owners,” said Sen. Booker. “I’m pleased that the Senate has passed this important bill that updates federal law to ensure that survivors and their heirs finally regain possession of their stolen art.”

“Hundreds of thousands of pieces of artwork were taken from the Jewish people during the Holocaust, and survivors in the United States should not be unfairly barred from claiming artwork that is theirs,” said Sen. Blackburn. “The Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery (HEAR) Act would ensure Holocaust survivors and their heirs have a fair opportunity to recover artwork stolen from them by resolving claims based on merits.”

“There is no denying the pure evil of the Holocaust and the lasting trauma endured by millions of survivors. We have a moral responsibility to do right by the victims of these atrocities, including working together to restore personal and meaningful possessions,” said Sen. Fetterman. “I’m proud to join my colleagues on the HEAR Act and I’m glad to see it advance. Updating the federal law is a commonsense move so survivors and their heirs have an opportunity to recover artwork stolen by the Nazis.”

“The theft of artwork by the Nazi regime is yet another atrocity in the long list of injustices committed against victims of the Holocaust and their families,” said Sen. Schmitt. “This legislation seeks to right that historic wrong by facilitating the return of stolen art to its rightful owners by extending an already existing law.”

“The HEAR Act of 2025 empowers Holocaust survivors and their families to continue to be heard in court and to reclaim their part of history,” said Sen. Britt. “I’m proud to see our bipartisan bill pass the Senate as we continue to work to honor and dignify the families of individuals whose property was stolen or sold by the Nazi regime over 80 years ago.”

U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Peter Welch (D-VT), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Chris Coons (D-DE), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Rick Scott (R-FL), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) are also cosponsors of this legislation.

Background:

Nazi Germany’s campaign of annihilation and genocide against the Jewish people in the Holocaust included massive theft of property, including hundreds of thousands of works of art. Despite post-war efforts by the United States and allies to return Nazi-looted art and renewed efforts since the late 1990s, more than 100,000 works of art have not been returned to their rightful owners.

In 2016, Congress unanimously passed the Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery (HEAR) Act, spearheaded in the Senate by Senator Cornyn, to ensure Holocaust survivors and their heirs could access U.S. courts to pursue claims for the recovery of Nazi-looted art, allowing cases to be decided on their factual merits rather than dismissed on time-based technical defenses. Congress found that the circumstances of the Holocaust imposed extraordinary obstacles to survivors and heirs to locate and recover stolen art, necessitating a national six-year statute of limitations that only begins when the owner actually discovers the location of the stolen artwork.

Unfortunately, many museums, governments, and institutions have contradicted Congress’ intent and obstructed justice by stonewalling legitimate claims, obscuring provenance, and employing aggressive legal tactics designed to exhaust and outlast survivors and their families. Rather than embracing transparency and reconciliation, too many have chosen to entrench and litigate, effectively preserving possession of stolen works rather than returning them to their rightful owners. Moreover, some court cases have interpreted the law narrowly, leaving survivors without recourse.

The original HEAR Act includes a sunset provision and is set to expire December 31, 2026. This legislation would amend and reauthorize the original law to ensure victims of the Holocaust are not denied justice by legal loopholes, institutional intransigence, or the mere passage of time. As another insidious wave of antisemitism hits society, this legislation would reaffirm our commitment to the Jewish people and Holocaust survivors by sending a clear message that the United States will not allow looting to be legitimized, justice to be denied, or Holocaust profiteering to be tolerated.

The HEAR Act would:

Eliminate the sunset date, recognizing that the challenges of restitution remain urgent and unresolved;

Clarify and strengthen procedural protections to ensure that claims are considered on their merits and not dismissed due to time-based technical defenses or other non-merits discretionary defenses; and

Fortify victims’ remedies and access to the courts.

The legislation is endorsed by Art Ashes, Agudath Israel of America, American Jewish Committee (AJC), Anti-Defamation League (ADL), Bet Tzedek, House of Justice, Christians United for Israel (CUFI Action Fund), Creative Community for Peace (CCFP), Holocaust Survivors Foundation USA, Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), Jewish Women International (JWI), Justice for Atrocities Clinic, LMU Loyola Law School, Simon Wiesenthal Center, StandWithUs, The 1939 Society, Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, and World Jewish Congress.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-cruz-praise-committee-passage-of-nicholas-ganjei-to-be-district-judge-for-the-southern-district-of-texas/,"Cornyn, Cruz Praise Committee Passage of Nicholas Ganjei to be District Judge for the Southern District of Texas",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) released the following statements after the Senate Judiciary Committee approved President Trump’s nomination of Nicholas Ganjei to be the District Judge for the Southern District of Texas – Houston Division:

“Texas deserves highly qualified individuals who will uphold our nation’s principles in the courtroom, and Nick is exactly that,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I was proud to join my colleagues on the Senate Judiciary Committee to advance Nick’s nomination to the full Senate for consideration, and I urge his swift confirmation.”

“Nick served as my Chief Counsel for three years, during which he oversaw vital initiatives on criminal justice, border security, judicial nominations, antitrust issues, intellectual property, and religious liberty,” said Sen. Cruz. “I am confident he will make an excellent District Judge, and I look forward to his swift confirmation.”

The Senators recommended the nominee to President Trump following an extensive review and interview process of the candidate pool by the bipartisan Federal Judicial Evaluation Committee (FJEC). Sen. Cornyn and Sen. Cruz established the FJEC, a bipartisan panel of leading attorneys in Texas, to help identify the most qualified candidates to fill judicial vacancies. The panel reviewed applications, interviewed candidates, and made recommendations to the Senators, who interviewed individuals before making their recommendations to the President.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-klobuchar-bill-to-permanently-extend-criminal-penalties-for-human-traffickers-passes-senate/,"Cornyn, Klobuchar Bill to Permanently Extend Criminal Penalties for Human Traffickers Passes Senate",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statements after their Enduring Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, which would correct a technical error in existing statute and permanently extend a criminal penalty requiring certain offenders found guilty of human trafficking and abuse to pay a special assessment fine that would go towards the Domestic Trafficking Victims Fund operated by the Department of Justice (DOJ), passed the Senate:

“It is only right and just for vile predators who are guilty of trafficking, abuse, and exploitation to be penalized and held accountable for the unimaginable pain they inflicted on innocent victims,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I was proud to author the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act a decade ago, and I’m looking forward to building on its successes by permanently codifying into law this criminal penalty requiring offenders to pay a fine that benefits survivors on their path to healing.”

“For over a decade, we have been working across the aisle to strengthen and reauthorize our Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act. Our work has helped curb trafficking in Minnesota and around the country,” said Sen. Klobuchar. “This bill ensures critical programs that help support survivors and improve the tools available to federal, state, and local law enforcement will remain available in the future.”

Background:

Sen. Cornyn authored the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, signed into law in 2015, with a goal to protect our most vulnerable and target the predators who seek to exploit them. The law mandated the collection of a $5,000 special assessment from persons convicted of certain federal offenses related to human trafficking and sexual exploitation, but the provision was subject to sunset.

The Enduring Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act would strike the sunset in the law to solve the problem permanently and ensure the special assessment criminal penalty is enshrined.

Payments from guilty offenders are deposited to the Department of Justice’s Domestic Trafficking Victims’ Fund, which provides survivors with restorative services and assists law enforcement with anti-trafficking operations. It is estimated that the fund has accumulated more than $100 million in total deposits for survivors since its inception. In 2024 alone, it raised nearly $9 million.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-cruz-introduces-bill-to-increase-affordable-health-coverage-options-for-americans,Sen. Cruz Introduces Bill to Increase Affordable Health Coverage Options for Americans,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Ted Budd (R-N.C.) introduced the Competition and Openness in Markets to Promote Efficiency, Transparency, and Enhanced Affordability (COMPETE) Act. The bill would amend the Public Health Service Act to extend the maximum duration of short-term, limited-duration insurance (STLDI), and includes a renewal guarantee provision that allows for consumers to purchase STLDI plans for an extended period of time.

Upon introduction, Sen. Cruz said, “Obamacare reduced health insurance options and caused premiums to skyrocket. This legislation will promote more competition, provide consumers with more choices, and allow Americans to choose the healthcare coverage that fits their needs and budgets. I urge my colleagues to pass this legislation expeditiously.”

Sen. Budd said, “Americans overwhelmingly agree that we need access to high-quality healthcare at a reasonable price. Healthcare costs have climbed to unsustainable rates because of bad policies, like Obamacare, that have propped up insurance companies at the cost of eliminating consumer choice. I am proud to be working with Senator Cruz to provide a common-sense solution for short-term health plans by enhancing access to lower premiums and transparently making healthcare more affordable and flexible for individuals and their families.”

This bill is supported by Americans for Prosperity, Foundation for Government Accountability, and Heritage Action.

Tarren Bragdon, President and CEO of the Foundation for Government Accountability said, “The Biden administration stripped away affordable short-term plans that gave families real health coverage at a fraction of the cost. Senator Cruz’s bill restores the freedom President Trump gave Americans to choose plans that actually work for them, not force them into ObamaCare’s one-size-fits-all mess. Instead of continuing to prop up a failing government system with heavy subsidies, this bill unleashes free markets and real competition to give families better, cheaper coverage options.”

Read the bill text here.

BACKGROUND

Since the law took effect in 2014, premiums for Affordable Care Act (ACA) benchmark plans increased 129 percent for a typical 50-year-old enrollee —nearly double the rate of employer-sponsored insurance (68 percent) and more than three times the increase in the consumer price index (39 percent).

As a result, in 2018, President Trump issued a rule to allow STLDI to cover longer time periods to shield consumers in the individual market from soaring premiums and restricted care options.

STLDI is a type of health insurance coverage that was primarily designed to fill gaps in coverage that may occur when an individual is transitioning from one plan or coverage to another plan or coverage.

Short Term Limited Duration Insurance:

Promotes Greater Freedom: Individuals are free to select the optimal amount of health coverage for their needs without being coerced into paying for additional coverage they’d never use.

Makes Healthcare More Affordable: According to the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), following the Trump administration’s expansion of short-term plans in 2018, these policies were priced at approximately 54% less than comparable ACA-compliant plans.

Helps Uninsured: STLDI plans can provide affordable, flexible coverage that expands access to insurance. STLDI gives individuals a realistic path to coverage at a smaller cost—helping ensure that more people are protected from soaring healthcare costs.

Faster Coverage: Unlike most individual market plans, which limit enrollment to specific periods or qualifying life events, short-term plans can be purchased at any time. Coverage typically begins within just a few days, compared to the several weeks it may take for other health plans to start.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/ahead-of-house-passage-cornyn-praises-long-awaited-outbound-investment-measures-included-in-annual-defense-bill/,"Ahead of House Passage, Cornyn Praises Long-Awaited Outbound Investment Measures Included in Annual Defense Bill",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Yesterday on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) praised the inclusion of his long-awaited outbound investment measures in the conferenced National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that is expected to pass the House this week and underscored the critical role outbound investment plays in preserving the United States’ national security against threats from countries of concern like China, Russia, and Iran. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.

“This year’s NDAA, the defense authorization bill, includes numerous important policies to strengthen our national defense, but perhaps the biggest success in this year’s annual authorization bill is a significant win against the Chinese Communist Party.”

“I tell people that the most important lesson I’ve learned here in the United States Senate is perseverance: If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. And that’s what we did here.”

“Every dollar invested in China by a United States investor into a Chinese company is a dollar that’s going toward the potential production of weapons and technology that one day may be used to kill Americans.”

“Those who’ve thrown up roadblocks against this provision over the last three years are working directly, whether they know it or not, in the interest of the Chinese Communist Party, and directly, whether they know it or not, against the interests of the people they represent, the American people.”

“But now, after nearly five years of work from members in both chambers, I’m proud to say the language that we proposed to address outbound investment transparency is in the final version of this year’s National Defense Authorization Act.”

“This has been a marathon, and I’m thankful to the Majority Leader, Senator Thune… the Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson. I would add a number of other names – Senator Tim Scott, Senator Cortez Masto, Senator Dan Sullivan, and Representative Andy Barr in the House of Representatives – all of whom have contributed to this success when we passed the bill.”

“The Chinese Communist Party may have successfully evaded our scrutiny for the past few years, but this is the year we will finally put the nail in the coffin.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-shaheen-bill-to-counter-foreign-cyber-scams-passes-senate/,"Cornyn, Shaheen Bill to Counter Foreign Cyber Scams Passes Senate",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) released the following statements after their Scam Compound Accountability and Mobilization (SCAM) Act, which would counter foreign cyber scams and hold transnational criminal organizations accountable for human trafficking, forced criminality, and cyber-enabled fraud schemes targeting Americans, passed the Senate:

“Transnational criminal organizations who are ensnaring innocent victims and coercing them into defrauding Americans must be held accountable,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would take strategic steps to combat the growing threat of cyber scams posed by criminals connected to China and other bad actors and safeguard Americans and their pocketbooks.”

“Criminal operations overseas are trafficking people to into forced criminality in scam centers and draining billions from Americans every year,” said Sen. Shaheen. “I’m proud the Senate passed my bill with Senator Cornyn to ensure a comprehensive, whole-of-government response to hold these international criminal actors accountable and protect Americans’ hard-earned money.”

This legislation is also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Rick Scott (R-FL), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), James Lankford (R-OK), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Tim Kaine (D-VA).

Background:

Transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) across the globe – many of which are based in Southeast Asia and affiliated with the People’s Republic of China (PRC) – are increasingly conducting large-scale cyber scam operations against Americans. By deceptively luring victims under false pretenses to a secure facility, also known as a scam compound, TCOs are then forcing these trafficked captives to commit cybercrimes under duress and swindle Americans out of billions of dollars annually.

In 2024, the FBI reported that there were nearly $14 billion in losses in the United States due to cyber-enabled fraud. While the Chinese Communist Party has been known to selectively crack down on compounds targeting Chinese citizens, they are otherwise turning a blind eye to those that defraud Americans, allowing them to proliferate at an alarming rate.

Sen. Cornyn’s SCAM Act would counter foreign cyber scams and hold transnational criminal organizations accountable for employing human trafficking and forced criminality to commit cyber-enabled fraud schemes on Americans by:

Requiring the U.S. Secretary of State, in consultation with the U.S. Attorney General, U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, and other relevant departments and agencies, to submit to Congress a comprehensive strategy to counter scam compounds by preventing recruitment fraud, enhancing the capabilities of partner governments and law enforcement agencies to stop scam compounds and associated money laundering, supporting survivors of human trafficking, and holding accountable countries that enable or permit scam compound operations;

Establishing a task force to implement the strategy over a six-year period, evaluate its progress, and submit an annual report to Congress detailing its effectiveness;

Allowing the President to use International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) sanctions against foreign persons who support or enable international scam compound operations; and

Requesting a report from the Department of Justice on recommendations for a potential mechanism to provide financial redress to United States citizen victims of scam operations.

In September 2025, the U.S. Department of the Treasury imposed significant sanctions on a network of Southeast Asian scam centers. In November 2025, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced the creation of a Scam Center Strike Force to further crack down on this illegal activity. This legislation aims to build on The Trump administration’s effort to address this growing threat.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-smith-colleagues-introduce-ensuring-excellence-in-mental-health-act/,"Cornyn, Smith, Colleagues Introduce Ensuring Excellence in Mental Health Act",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Tina Smith (D-MN), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) today introduced the Ensuring Excellence in Mental Health Act, which would improve access to Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) by establishing a formal funding structure and allowing for coverage of the services they provide under Medicare:

“Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics have a proven record of providing lifesaving mental health and addiction treatment to anyone who walks through their doors,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would ensure CCBHCs have a reliable and permanent funding structure under Medicare so they can improve workforce sustainability and increase Texans’ access to care.”

“Everybody deserves access to mental health care, regardless of their zip code,”said Sen. Smith. “Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers know the importance of treating the whole patient, and we need to do more to make this model of mental health care accessible and sustainable. I’m grateful to my former colleagues Senator Stabenow and Senator Blunt for laying the groundwork for this initiative. It’s an honor to be its new champion in the Senate.”

“Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics have proven they can deliver timely, high-quality care for Americans facing mental health and substance use challenges, and it is time to make this model permanently available in every state,” said Sen. Tillis. “As co-chair of the Senate Mental Health Caucus, I am committed to expanding access to comprehensive treatment, and this bipartisan legislation strengthens our behavioral health system, improves access to lifesaving services, and ensures communities, including those in rural areas, have the tools they need to respond effectively to mental health and addiction crises.”

“It’s critical that while we work to keep expanding access to high-quality health care, we make sure mental health care is included,” said Sen. Cortez Masto. “I’m proud to support the Ensuring Excellence in Mental Health Act. It’s past time to expand mental health care access in our communities.”

Background:

Texas currently operates 39 Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs), which were established by Congress in 2014 to provide a range of mental health, substance use, and crisis care services to vulnerable populations in need of care. The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024 codified a permanent CCBHC option for states under the Medicaid program, but further action is now needed to establish CCBHCs in Medicare to allow comparable status and designated payment as other health care providers. While CCBHCs serve Medicare beneficiaries, establishing designated payment for CCBHCs under Medicare would improve workforce sustainability and foster the same outcome quality measures as demonstrated under CCBHCs in Medicaid. The Ensuring Excellence in Mental Health Act would:

Establish Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) under the Medicare program;

Authorize CCBHC expansion grants at a level that allows current grantees to continue their efforts and ensure availability of technical assistance to help the grantee clinics succeed;

Create opportunities to better integrate physical and behavioral health care by giving CCBHCs the option to offer primary care services within their Prospective Payment System (PPS);

Provide guidance for organizations primarily serving distinct populations, including youth, veterans, and our most vulnerable, to understand how they can meet CCBHC requirements while continuing to provide appropriate, high-quality care;

And further enhance accountability measures for CCBHCs by establishing a national data infrastructure and repository that would expand the ability of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and Congress to track program progress and outcomes.

This legislation is endorsed by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing and Texas Council of Community Centers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-supports-bill-to-help-college-athletes-save-for-the-future-by-investing-nil-earnings-curtail-abuse-by-agents/,"Cornyn Supports Bill to Help College Athletes Save for the Future by Investing NIL Earnings, Curtail Abuse by Agents",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) cosponsored the Helping Undergraduate Students Thrive with Long-Term Earnings (HUSTLE) Act, which would create first-of-its kind name, image, and likeness (NIL) tax-advantaged investment accounts for student athletes, require trustees to provide financial education, and establish regulations to prevent abuse by athlete agents:

“Since the Supreme Court’s decision in 2021, college athletics has rapidly evolved into a complex industry that gives students unprecedented earning power but lacks the guardrails to prepare them for financial success after graduation,” said Sen. Cornyn. “The HUSTLE Act would optimize investment opportunities and modernize current law to ensure student athletes can save for their futures and have agents and advisors who act in their best financial interests.”

The legislation is led by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA).

Background:

Since the Supreme Court affirmed in 2021 that college athletes have a right to profit from their name, image, and likeness, (NIL) college athletics has turned into a multibillion-dollar marketplace. NIL deals generated more than $1.2 billion in the 2023-2024 period, with projections to exceed $2.5 billion by 2025-2026 if revenue sharing is fully implemented. While this new environment gives athletes unprecedented earning power, these athletes can often lack the financial tools, institutional support, or regulatory safeguards to navigate such a complex market. This mismatch—significant income paired with limited guidance—shows that student-athletes must be further empowered to invest in their financial futures and protect their long-term financial well-being.

The Helping Undergraduate Students Thrive with Long-Term Earnings (HUSTLE) Act would:

Allow student-athletes to contribute their NIL income up to the annual gift-tax exclusion amount to an NIL Investment Account, with the funds growing tax-free;

Allow up to $35,000 of unused NIL account funds to be rolled over into an IRA or other retirement vehicle once the athlete has been out of college sports for at least a year;

Require trustees to provide financial education to ensure athletes understand and manage their NIL savings responsibly;

And direct the U.S. Department of the Treasury to issue regulations to prevent abuse, ensure proper reporting, track contribution limits, and define additional qualified expenses.

The HUSTLE Act would also modernize the Sports Agent Responsibility and Trust Act by:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-cruz-cornyn-rep-pfluger-texas-delegation-members-urge-cms-to-prioritize-funding-for-texas-from-rural-health-transformation-program,"Sens. Cruz, Cornyn, Rep. Pfluger, Texas Delegation Members Urge CMS to Prioritize Funding for Texas from Rural Health Transformation Program",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Rep. August Pfluger (R-Texas-11) led a letter with members of the Texas delegation urging U.S. Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Dr. Mehmet Oz to support Texas’s application for funding from the Rural Health Transformation Program. The $50 billion fund was authorized earlier this year by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Read the full letter here or excerpts below:

""As you know, Congress approved a historic investment in rural health care earlier this year by creating this program and ensuring that states can work with CMS to determine how to use these funds most effectively to meet the needs of their rural communities. Specifically, Congress provided $50 billion for state grants, with half being distributed by CMS ‘equally among all states with approved application.’

“Under this directive, each state could receive the same amount from the pool regardless of the number of rural hospitals and providers or the size of its rural population. For example, Connecticut, which has three rural hospitals, could receive the same amount as Texas, which has 155 rural hospitals. Texas hospitals and clinics will be clearly disadvantaged under this model, while facilities in more urban states will see an unearned windfall.

“Texas is ready and more than able to meet this critical moment for improving health care access and outcomes in our rural communities. Texas will collaborate with rural hospitals, Federally Qualified Health Centers, and other providers across the state, using the funding from this program ‘to reach residents in 100% of Texas’s rural counties and make rural Texans healthy again.’

“As you consider state applications, we ask that you ensure an appropriate balance in funding distribution and consider the increased need of a large, rural state like Texas to ensure we can make critical improvements in health care for rural Texas communities. Thank you for your careful attention to these concerns.”

The letter is co-signed by Reps. Pete Sessions (R-Texas-17), John Carter (R-Texas-31), Michael McCaul (R-Texas-10), Randy Weber (R-Texas-14), Roger Williams (R-Texas-25), Brian Babin (R-Texas-36), Jodey Arrington (R-Texas-19), Michael Cloud (R-Texas-27), Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas-02), Lance Gooden (R-Texas-05), Pat Fallon (R-Texas-04), Ronny Jackson (R-Texas-13), Beth Van Duyne (R-Texas-24), Jake Ellzey (R-Texas-06), Monica De La Cruz (R-Texas-15), Wesley Hunt (R-Texas-38), Morgan Luttrell (R-Texas-08), Nathaniel Moran (R-Texas-01), Keith Self (R-Texas-03), Tony Gonzales (R-Texas-23), and Craig Goldman (R-Texas-12).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-colleagues-urge-review-of-biden-administrations-failed-vetting-process-for-afghan-parolees/,"Cornyn, Colleagues Urge Review of Biden Administration’s Failed Vetting Process for Afghan Parolees",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), along with his Senate Select Committee on Intelligence colleagues led by Chairman Tom Cotton (R-AR), sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of State and National Security Advisor Marco Rubio, urging a review of the Biden administration’s failed vetting process for Afghan nationals through Biden-era immigration parole program Operation Allies Welcome, which allowed an Afghan citizen living in Fort Worth, Texas, who was recently charged by the U.S. Department of Justice for threatening to kill Americans as well as the shooter in last month’s ambush on two National Guard soldiers in Washington, D.C., into the country:

“It is past time for the United States to revisit the deficiencies of the Biden administration’s vetting process for Afghan nationals and remedy the resulting egregious security threats such a process created in the United States after the disastrous August 2021 withdrawal. We urge you to take immediate action to prevent future attacks on American servicemen and citizens,” wrote the Senators.

The full text of the letter is available here and below.

December 4, 2025

The Honorable Marco Rubio

National Security Advisor

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Ave, NW

Washington, D.C. 20500

Dear Secretary Rubio:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for your prompt attention to this request, and we look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

/s/",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-pfluger-colleagues-urge-cms-to-prioritize-funding-for-texas-from-rural-health-transformation-program/,"Cornyn, Pfluger, Colleagues Urge CMS to Prioritize Funding for Texas from Rural Health Transformation Program",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) led a letter with members of the Texas congressional delegation to Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Dr. Mehmet Oz, urging him to prioritize funding from the Working Families Tax Cuts’ $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program for the State of Texas:

The lawmakers wrote: “We are writing in strong support of Texas’s application for funding through the Rural Health Transformation Program.”

“Texas is ready and more than able to meet this critical moment for improving health care access and outcomes in our rural communities,” they wrote.

“As you consider state applications, we ask that you ensure an appropriate balance in funding distribution and consider the increased need of a large, rural state like Texas to ensure we can make critical improvements in health care for rural Texas communities. Thank you for your careful attention to these concerns,” the lawmakers concluded.

Text of the letter is available here and below. Additional signatories include Senator Ted Cruz and Reps. Pete Sessions (TX-17), John Carter (TX-31), Michael McCaul (TX-10), Randy Weber (TX-14), Roger Williams (TX-25), Brian Babin (TX-36), Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Lance Gooden (TX-05), Pat Fallon (TX-04), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Jake Ellzey (TX-06), Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Morgan Luttrell (TX-08), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Keith Self (TX-03), Tony Gonzales (TX-23), and Craig Goldman (TX-12).

December 5, 2025

The Honorable Dr. Mehmet Oz

Administrator

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

200 Independence Avenue SW

Washington, DC 20201

Dear Dr. Oz:

We are writing in strong support of Texas’s application for funding through the Rural Health Transformation Program, authorized by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

As you know, Congress approved a historic investment in rural health care earlier this year by creating this program and ensuring that states can work with CMS to determine how to use these funds most effectively to meet the needs of their rural communities.

Specifically, Congress provided $50 billion for state grants, with half being distributed by CMS “equally among all states with approved application.” Under this directive, each state could receive the same amount from the pool regardless of the number of rural hospitals and providers or the size of its rural population. For example, Connecticut, which has three rural hospitals, could receive the same amount as Texas, which has 155 rural hospitals. Texas hospitals and clinics will be clearly disadvantaged under this model, while facilities in more urban states will see an unearned windfall.

For the remaining $25 billion, CMS has broad discretion to consider a range of factors in allocating funds and is not required to distribute additional funding to all states that receive baseline awards. We respectfully ask CMS to carefully consider this dynamic and exercise this discretionary authority when determining the criteria and allocations for the second tranche so that the program’s intent is preserved. We emphasize the following points:

Texas has 4.3 million rural residents, more than any other state, while also being the second-largest state by geographic area. These residents are spread across 202 rural counties covering over 260,000 square miles of rural territory.

Texas has more rural hospitals and clinics than any other state, four times the national average.

Since 2005, Texas has had more rural hospital closures than any other state, ten times the national average, and continues to have more vulnerable rural hospitals than any other state. The financial crisis facing these facilities is severe with 77% of rural Texas hospitals having negative net income from patient services in 2025, while 40% are operating with negative margins and fewer than 20 days cash on hand. Additionally, 48 hospitals currently have fewer than 10 days cash on hand. In comparison, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Utah have zero hospitals at risk of closure.

Over 500,000 Texas residents must travel an hour or more to reach urban areas for health care services, with rural residents averaging 59 miles to the nearest referral center and some West Texas patients having to travel up to 109 miles. Women may travel more than 70 miles to reach the nearest labor and delivery hospital, as 96 rural hospitals no longer provide obstetric services, creating maternal health deserts larger than the combined land mass of Connecticut, Delaware and Rhode Island.

Almost all rural Texas counties are designated as health provider shortage areas (HPSA) and every rural county in Texas is designated as a HPSA for mental health providers. Nearly one in five rural Texas counties lacks a licensed primary care physician, and rural areas have 60% fewer primary care physicians per capita than urban areas. The workforce crisis extends beyond physicians, as rural communities have nearly three times fewer community health workers per capita than urban areas, while one-third of the existing rural healthcare workforce is nearing retirement.

This rural health care crisis imposes a staggering economic burden, with excess medical spending and productivity loss due to preventable health conditions costing the Texas economy $7 billion annually, while rural Texans continue to experience higher mortality rates and increased incidence of chronic diseases.

Texas is ready and more than able to meet this critical moment for improving health care access and outcomes in our rural communities. Texas will collaborate with rural hospitals, Federally Qualified Health Centers, and other providers across the state, using the funding from this program “to reach residents in 100% of Texas’s rural counties and make rural Texans healthy again.” In its application, “Rural Texas Strong: Supporting Health and Wellness,” Texas is prioritizing the following areas:

Reducing chronic disease;

Increasing remote patient monitoring;

Deploying artificial intelligence and telehealth services to bridge service gaps;

Recruiting and retaining rural health care workers;

Improving cybersecurity to protect patient data; and

Upgrading equipment in rural hospitals and clinics.

These are worthy and significant goals that closely align with the strategic goals laid out by CMS, and they can be achieved with the necessary funding.

As you consider state applications, we ask that you ensure an appropriate balance in funding distribution and consider the increased need of a large, rural state like Texas to ensure we can make critical improvements in health care for rural Texas communities. Thank you for your careful attention to these concerns.

Sincerely,

/s/",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/in-the-news/sens-cruz-cornyn-colleagues-introduce-back-the-blue-act,"Sens. Cruz, Cornyn, Colleagues Introduce Back the Blue Act",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) joined Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) and 35 Senate Republican colleagues in introducing the Back the Blue Act. This legislation would increase penalties for criminals who target law enforcement officers and provide new tools for officers to protect themselves.

Upon introduction, Sen. Cruz said, “Law enforcement officers dutifully and heroically protect our communities across Texas and across the country. We cannot and should not tolerate criminals who kill or attempt to kill law enforcement officers. They should face the full force of the law. I am proud to stand with my colleagues in support of the Back the Blue Act, and I urge Congress to pass this bill without delay.”

Sen. Cornyn said, “Our law enforcement officers bravely risk their lives daily to protect our communities, and anyone who targets them should be met with the full force of the law, including the death penalty. America was built on the principles of law and order, and this legislation sends a clear message that targeted attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated, dangerous criminals will be held accountable, and our men and women in blue have our full and unwavering support.”

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

This legislation is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition (NNOAC), Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), and the Sergeants Benevolent Association NYPD.

Read the bill text here.

BACKGROUND

The Back the Blue Act would:

Strengthen existing laws to protect police officers

Create a specific aggravating factor for federal death penalty prosecutions

Limits federal habeas relief for murders of law enforcement officers

Limits recovery of certain damages and fees for individuals engaged in felonies

Expands self-defense and second amendment rights for law enforcement officers",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-cruz-lee-colleagues-call-on-epa-to-halt-changes-increasing-refinery-compliance-costs,"Sens. Cruz, Lee, Colleagues Call on EPA to Halt Changes Increasing Refinery Compliance Costs",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), and their colleagues sent a letter to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin calling on the EPA not to move forward with proposals to reallocate exempted renewable volume obligations. The proposals would shift compliance costs onto oil refineries across the country and undermine President Trump’s American energy dominance agenda.

Read the full letter here or excerpts below.

“We write to express our strong opposition to the proposal to reallocate exempted renewable volume obligations (RVO). Reallocating exempted volumes, whether at 100% or at 50%, poses a serious threat for smaller market and independent refiners that are ineligible for SREs but not large enough to absorb the dramatic increase in costs posed by the updated RVO and newly proposed reallocation costs. Reallocation costs would likely impose tens of millions of dollars of additional Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) compliance burdens on each refiner. This proposal is an existential threat to many refiners and will certainly result in price hikes for American families.

“Furthermore, Congress has not authorized the reallocation of exempted volumes. As the EPA itself conceded, ‘the statute does not specifically require EPA to redistribute exempted volumes,’ instead relying solely on its ‘authority under Chevron’ due to alleged ambiguity. As you know, the Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo decision expressly overturned Chevron deference in 2024, completely removing the statutory justification for the proposal.

“The reallocation proposal is a relic of the Biden- and Chevron-era. It is contrary to President Trump’s energy dominance and regulatory agenda, including his Executive Order ‘Directing the Repeal of Unlawful Regulations.’ Any regulation that relies on Chevron must be repealed or not implemented. We respectfully request that EPA not move forward with any proposal to reallocate exempted volumes.”

The letter was co-signed by Sens. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.).

BACKGROUND

Earlier this year, Cruz joined Sen. Lee in introducing the Protect Consumers from Reallocation Costs Act to block the EPA from forcing refineries to shoulder forgiven volumes from other refineries that do not meet the EPA’s environmental standards.

Currently, the EPA requires refineries in the U.S. to include a minimum volume of renewable fuel (e.g., ethanol, biodiesel, etc.) in all fuel sold, or pay to make up for any level of noncompliance. Small refineries may be granted exemptions if complying would cause “disproportionate economic hardship.” The EPA is currently considering whether to reallocate forgiven obligations over to non-exempt refineries, forcing compliant producers to shoulder even more costs despite no authorization from the Clean Air Act to do so.

By the EPA’s own calculation, the proposed rule would impose compliance costs of approximately $6.7 billion per year, while returning benefits of only $200 million per year. The American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) estimates that compliance costs are closer to $70 billion.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-op-ed-the-energy-capital-of-the-world-needs-the-coastal-texas-project/,Cornyn Op-Ed: The Energy Capital of the World Needs the Coastal Texas Project,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) authored the following op-ed in the Houston Chronicle on the importance of the Texas Coastal Spine Project for securing America’s energy from the threat of hurricanes along the Texas Gulf Coast.

The Energy Capital of the World Needs the Coastal Texas Project

Senator John Cornyn

The Houston Chronicle

December 5, 2025

https://www.houstonchronicle.com/opinion/outlook/article/cornyn-energy-capital-world-needs-coastal-texas-21221940.php

It’s well-known that Houston is the Energy Capital of the World — home to a vast and dense concentration of refineries, petrochemical plants, and energy infrastructure stretching along the Houston Ship Channel. This industrial corridor is critical to producing and transporting the fuels, chemicals, and materials that power our nation and support economies across the globe. But with so much essential infrastructure concentrated in a single region, we must confront a sobering truth: The Bayou City is just one major hurricane away from a potential energy and ecological crisis.

A direct hit from a powerful storm — particularly one pushing a significant storm surge up Galveston Bay and into the Ship Channel — could not only disrupt national and global energy supplies, but also trigger an ecological disaster. Floodwaters from such a surge could damage industrial facilities and overwhelm containment systems, releasing an unimaginable cascade of hazardous materials into the surrounding environment, threatening both public health and fragile ecosystems. This dual risk underscores the urgent need to accelerate resilience planning, environmental safeguards, and infrastructure protection before the next storm arrives.

A report from the Severe Storm Prediction, Education and Evacuation from Disasters, or SSPEED, Center at Rice University concluded that a Category 4 or 5 hurricane could result in a severe storm surge slamming into petrochemical facilities and thousands of above ground tanks that dot the Houston area, wiping out billions of dollars of refineries and more. This would be devastating to Houston’s energy production and would send the price of gasoline soaring nationwide.

The Houston-Galveston region has long been susceptible to hurricanes, but recent storms still loom large for Southeast Texans: Hurricane Ike in 2008, Harvey in 2017, and Beryl last year. This reality is something that Texans accept, but there is a way we can make these storms less devastating.

The good news is that we are already taking steps to protect coastal Texas from the storms of tomorrow through the creation of what is referred to as the Coastal Texas Project, often referred to as the Ike Dike. While progress on this takes time, funding, and multiple acts of Congress, we know that Texas families, the U.S. energy industry, and the entire globe will reap lasting rewards. Building a coastal storm barrier to protect at-risk petrochemical infrastructure and the Texas Gulf Coast is urgent not just for Houston and its residents, but for our entire nation and all who source their energy from the free world.

This is an ambitious project, but we are already on the path toward protecting Texas communities from the whims of Mother Nature. I successfully fought to fund for the Coastal Texas Study, a critical first step in identifying the scope of the project. Three years ago, I helped secure congressional authorization of the project through the Water Resources and Development Act, or WRDA. The only remaining hurdle before construction begins is funding.

The Army Corps of Engineers estimates that the Coastal Texas Project would require up to $34.4 billion to build, and once funded, the construction could take up to two decades. I secured some of the initial funding in the Army Corps of Engineers 2024 Work Plan, and the State of Texas has already allocated $950 million.

However, there is much more to be done.

Due to the sheer scale of the project, it will take years of consistent funding from Congress to fully pay for the storm barrier. The project will have to compete with others for resources during the appropriations process. I was pleased that my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives secured an additional $5 million, and I have secured language in the Senate’s Energy & Water Development appropriations bill that encourages the Army Corps to prioritize funding of the coastal storm barrier. While this may feel like a drop in the bucket, it is an important step toward securing our energy supply.

This will require a whole of government effort from Texas’ congressional delegation. I’m proud to lead the charge, and I’d encourage you to reach out to your congressional representatives and urge them to join this fight. There are naysayers who think this is impossible, but here’s my message to them: Since when did Texas quit when the going got tough? The repercussions of failing to bring the Coastal Texas Project to the finish would be costly both financially and in loss of precious Texans’ lives.

This storm barrier system is imperative, not just for Houston and the surrounding areas, but for our entire country and all who rely on American energy. Fortifying the Energy Capital of the World will come at a price, but we cannot afford to fail.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-senate-gop-introduce-back-the-blue-act-2/,"Cornyn, Senate GOP Introduce Back the Blue Act",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and 35 of his Senate Republican colleagues today introduced the Back the Blue Act, which would increase penalties for criminals who target law enforcement officers and provide new tools for officers to protect themselves:

“Our law enforcement officers bravely risk their lives daily to protect our communities, and anyone who targets them should be met with the full force of the law, including the death penalty,” said Sen. Cornyn. “America was built on the principles of law and order, and this legislation sends a clear message that targeted attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated, dangerous criminals will be held accountable, and our men and women in blue have our full and unwavering support.”

The legislation is cosponsored by Senators Jim Banks (R-IN), Marsha Blackburn, (R-TN), John Boozman (R-AR), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Jim Justice (R-WV), John Kennedy (R-LA), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), John Barrasso (R-WY), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Todd Young (R-IN), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), James Lankford (R-OK), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tim Scott (R-SC), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL).

Background on the Back the Blue Act:

Strengthens Laws to Protect Police Officers

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

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

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

Creates a Specific Aggravating Factor for Federal Death Penalty Prosecutions

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

Limits Federal Habeas Relief for Murders of Law Enforcement Officers

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

Limits Recovery of Certain Damages and Fees for Individuals Engaged in Felonies

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

Expands Self-Defense and Second Amendment Rights for Law Enforcement Officers

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

This legislation is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition (NNOAC), Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), and the Sergeants Benevolent Association NYPD.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/senators-cornyn-cruz-speaker-johnson-rep-roy-lead-effort-to-defend-ten-commandments-displays-in-public-schools/,"Senators Cornyn, Cruz, Speaker Johnson, Rep. Roy Lead Effort to Defend Ten Commandments Displays in Public Schools",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. John Cornyn (R-TX), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA-04), and Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX-21) filed an amicus brief defending the display of the Ten Commandments in public schools. The brief argues that the Ten Commandments are part of the United States’s historical foundation, and contends that displaying the Commandments is consistent with longstanding national traditions and with the First Amendment. The brief further maintains that the government may acknowledge religion’s role in American life without establishing a state religion or coercing religious observance.

“I’m proud to stand with Senator Cruz in supporting Texas’ law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in public schools across the Lone Star State. The Ten Commandments ensure students are reminded of the Judeo-Christian values that have shaped our state and nation,” said Sen. Cornyn.

“As the Supreme Court has repeatedly acknowledged, the Ten Commandments were foundational to Western legal tradition, including the common-law system that shaped American law, and this case is critical to reaffirming our commitment to the principles that have guided America since our founding. I was proud to represent Texas in successfully defending the Texas Ten Commandments Capitol monument in Van Orden v. Perry (2005). Public displays of the Ten Commandments reinforce the founding principles for current and future generations, and are crucial to shaping a shared civic culture. I hope the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals will uphold the ruling,” said Sen. Cruz.

“While some states have sought to erase American history and the motivations that have undergirded our Republic, others, like Louisiana and Texas, took bold action to ensure schoolchildren are taught the history and traditions of the United States. The Ten Commandments – adorned both inside and outside the U.S. Supreme Court – served as essential building blocks for Western Civilization and are deeply embedded in the history of this country. I am grateful to my colleagues for joining me in filing this amicus brief, and we hope the Court follows well-established precedent and affirms the importance of teaching the fundamental foundations of our country,” said Speaker Johnson.

“America was founded as a nation grounded in a distinctly Christian understanding, and the Ten Commandments are intertwined with America’s legal, moral, and historical heritage. Christianity and the rule of law have been under attack by radical progressives who dare to upend Western civilization and steer America’s youth away from the morals that made our country great. Placing the Ten Commandments in every classroom in Texas affirms that we are a Judeo-Christian nation, upholding our historical and moral heritage and proclaiming the Ten Commandments as a guiding path for a righteous way of life,” said Rep. Roy.

Read the amicus brief text here.

Joining Sens. Cornyn, Cruz, Speaker Johnson, and Rep. Roy were Sens. Ted Budd (R-NC), Mike Lee (R-UT), Tim Scott (R-SC), and Reps. Brian Babin (R-TX-36), Andy Biggs (R-AZ-05), Sheri Biggs (R-SC-03), Lauren Boebert (R-CO-04), Josh Brecheen (R-OK-02), Eric Burlison (R-MO-07), Ben Cline (R-VA-06), Michael Cloud (R-TX-27), Andrew Clyde (R-GX-09), Eli Crane (R-AZ-02), Dan Crenshaw (R-TX-02), Monica De La Cruz (R-TX-15), Byron Donalds (R-FL-19), Pat Fallon (R-TX-04), Russ Fulcher (R-ID-01), Brandon Gill (R-TX-26), Tony Gonzales (R-TX-23), Lance Gooden (R-TX-05), Paul Gosar (R-AZ-09), Morgan Griffith (R-VA-09), Harriet Hageman (R-WY), Andy Harris (R-MD-01), Mark Harris (R-NC-08), and Diana Harshbarger (R-TN-01).

Background:

This Senate amicus brief is in support of Texas’s S.B. 10 in Rabbi Nathan v. Alamo Heights Independent School District, now before the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.

The Texas law directs public schools to display a copy of the Ten Commandments in each classroom—using the same text upheld by the Supreme Court in Van Orden v. Perry.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-cruz-cornyn-speaker-johnson-rep-roy-lead-effort-to-defend-ten-commandments-displays-in-public-schools,"Senators Cruz, Cornyn, Speaker Johnson, Rep. Roy Lead Effort to Defend Ten Commandments Displays in Public Schools",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Federal Courts, Oversight, Agency Action, and Federal Rights, John Cornyn (R-Texas), Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.-04), and Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas-21) filed an amicus brief defending the display of the Ten Commandments in public schools. The brief argues that the Ten Commandments are part of the United States’s historical foundation, and contends that displaying the Commandments is consistent with longstanding national traditions and with the First Amendment. The brief further maintains that the government may acknowledge religion’s role in American life without establishing a state religion or coercing religious observance.

Upon filing, Sen. Cruz said, “As the Supreme Court has repeatedly acknowledged, the Ten Commandments were foundational to Western legal tradition, including the common-law system that shaped American law, and this case is critical to reaffirming our commitment to the principles that have guided America since our founding. I was proud to represent Texas in successfully defending the Texas Ten Commandments Capitol monument in Van Orden v. Perry (2005). Public displays of the Ten Commandments reinforce the founding principles for current and future generations, and are crucial to shaping a shared civic culture. I hope the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals will uphold the ruling.”

Sen. Cornyn said, “I’m proud to stand with Senator Cruz in supporting Texas’ law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in public schools across the Lone Star State. The Ten Commandments ensure students are reminded of the Judeo-Christian values that have shaped our state and nation.”

Speaker Johnson said, “While some states have sought to erase American history and the motivations that have undergirded our Republic, others, like Louisiana and Texas, took bold action to ensure schoolchildren are taught the history and traditions of the United States. The Ten Commandments – adorned both inside and outside the U.S. Supreme Court – served as essential building blocks for Western Civilization and are deeply embedded in the history of this country. I am grateful to my colleagues for joining me in filing this amicus brief, and we hope the Court follows well-established precedent and affirms the importance of teaching the fundamental foundations of our country.”

Rep. Roy said, “America was founded as a nation grounded in a distinctly Christian understanding, and the Ten Commandments are intertwined with America’s legal, moral, and historical heritage. Christianity and the rule of law have been under attack by radical progressives who dare to upend Western civilization and steer America’s youth away from the morals that made our country great. Placing the Ten Commandments in every classroom in Texas affirms that we are a Judeo-Christian nation, upholding our historical and moral heritage and proclaiming the Ten Commandments as a guiding path for a righteous way of life.”

Read the amicus brief text here.

Joining Sens. Cruz, Cornyn, Speaker Johnson, and Rep. Roy were Sens. Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), and Reps. Brian Babin (R-Texas-36), Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.-05), Sheri Biggs (R-S.C.-03), Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.-04), Josh Brecheen (R-Okla.-02), Eric Burlison (R-Mo.-07), Ben Cline (R-VA-06), Michael Cloud (R-Texas-27), Andrew Clyde (R-Ga.-09), Eli Crane (R-Ariz.-02), Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas-02), Monica De La Cruz (R-Texas-15), Byron Donalds (R-Fla.-19), Pat Fallon (R-Texas-04), Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho-01), Brandon Gill (R-Texas-26), Tony Gonzales (R-Texas-23), Lance Gooden (R-Texas-05), Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.-09), Morgan Griffith (R-Va.-09), Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.), Andy Harris (R-Md.-01), Mark Harris (R-N.C.-08), and Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.-01).

BACKGROUND

Senator Cruz is leading the Senate amicus brief in support of Texas’s S.B. 10 in Rabbi Nathan v. Alamo Heights Independent School District, now before the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.

The Texas law directs public schools to display a copy of the Ten Commandments in each classroom—using the same text upheld by the Supreme Court in Van Orden v. Perry.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-bennet-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-increase-housing-availability-and-affordability/,"Cornyn, Bennet, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Increase Housing Availability and Affordability",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Steve Daines (R-MT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), John Barrasso (R-WY), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) today introduced the More Homes on the Market Act, which would make housing more available and affordable by amending the tax code to allow sellers to exclude additional funds from capital gains taxes, incentivizing homeowners to sell their homes and increasing market supply:

“The American dream is rooted in owning a home and raising a family, but an outdated tax code not only prevents the next generation from being able to afford a home, but it also prevents seniors seeking to downsize from selling theirs,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would update the tax code to incentivize sellers and make homes more affordable, and I’m glad to support it.”

“Too many families in Colorado struggle to find affordable homes in their communities that meet their needs. At the same time, seniors are struggling to sell their homes for fear of a massive tax bill,” said Sen. Bennet. “This bill addresses this problem and updates outdated tax rules so more homes can come on the market and more Coloradans can find a place to call their own.”

“As Montanans grapple with historically high housing prices, the last thing families should have to deal with is enormous tax burdens when they decide to move. The More Homes on the Market Act will provide much-needed tax relief for Montana families, especially our seniors who have been living in their homes for years,” said Sen. Daines.

“California is facing a significant housing shortage and in order to address this crisis we need to use every tool at our disposal to increase housing availability. This legislation is one such solution, easing the financial burden homeowners face when selling their homes in order to make more homes available for younger home buyers. The More Homes on the Market Act would allow homeowners to downsize without penalty, free up existing housing stock, and help bring the dream of homeownership within reach for more Americans,” said Sen. Schiff.

“Wyoming families who have spent decades in their homes shouldn’t be punished with enormous tax bills when they decide to move,” said Sen. Barrasso. “The More Homes on the Market Act is a commonsense solution that provides long-overdue tax relief. This will allow Americans to keep more of their hard-earned money while increasing the housing supply for the next generation of homebuyers.”

“Arizona families feel the housing squeeze every day. Homeowners who want to move or downsize are worried they’ll get hit with a big tax bill,” said Sen. Kelly. “Updating this cap will make it easier for Arizonans to sell and keep more of their savings, while opening up homes for young families.”

Background:

The current tax code allows homeowners who sell their primary home to exclude $250,000 in gains from capital gains taxes, or $500,000 in the case of a couple filing jointly. However, this exclusion has not been updated since 1997 nor is it indexed for inflation. Because of this, millions of homeowners in Texas and across the country face overly burdensome taxes from the sale of their homes, leading many homeowners – especially seniors who have lived in their home for decades – to choose not to sell. The More Homes on the Market Act would increase the exclusion to $500,000 for single filers and $1 million for joint filers, making it more financially desirable for homeowners to sell and increasing housing turnover.

The legislation is endorsed by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and AARP.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-blasts-biden-parole-programs-for-letting-terrorists-into-u-s-commends-trump-for-freezing-afghan-asylum-visa-applications/,"Cornyn Blasts Biden Parole Programs for Letting Terrorists into U.S., Commends Trump for Freezing Afghan Asylum, Visa Applications",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) detailed the abject failures of the Biden administration’s parole programs, including Operation Allies Welcome, which allowed an Afghan citizen living in Fort Worth, Texas, who was recently charged by the U.S. Department of Justice for threatening to kill Americans as well as the shooter in last week’s ambush on two National Guard soldiers in Washington, D.C., into the country. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.

“The man who committed this crime was a 29-year-old Afghan national by the name of Rahmanullah Lakanwal. The Biden administration paroled him into the United States in 2021, as part of Operation Allies Welcome. He was not the recipient of any Special Immigrant Visa.”

“Parole is a provision under the United States law that allows the Secretary of Homeland Security to allow certain aliens – and that would be foreigners – on a case-by-case basis.”

“This shooter was not admitted to the United States as a result of any legislation that Congress passed or any of us voted for. It was solely done by the Biden administration and by the Department of Homeland Security, during his administration.”

“These sort of categorical paroles that the Biden administration issued, including the parole which resulted in this shooter being in Washington, D.C., and attacking these two National Guard members, was illegitimate.”

“Now, what I’ve learned about this abuse of parole authority within Operation Allies Welcome, I raised the alarm bell. In October 2024, I co-led a letter, along with my colleagues on the Judiciary Committee, to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, back in the Biden administration.”

“We sent this letter back in 2024 because of our concern that another foreign extremist might make their way into our country via this parole process and commit some act of violence, and it became increasingly clear during Thanksgiving week that our concerns were not unwarranted.”

“We simply cannot ignore the importance of thoroughly vetting for each and every person who enters our country to make sure we’re keeping out radicals who may want to harm Americans, or criminals, or other people who have no business being in the United States in the first place.”

“I commend President Trump for freezing processing of asylum and visa applications from Afghan nationals while we figure out what happened and figure out how to fix it.”

“We have to get to the bottom of this in order to make sure that such a tragedy never happens again.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-coons-bill-to-strengthen-state-departments-taiwan-strategy-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Coons’ Bill to Strengthen State Department’s Taiwan Strategy Signed into Law",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Chris Coons (D-DE) released the following statements after their Taiwan Assurance Implementation Act, which requires the U.S. Department of State to review and update its policy guidance regarding Taiwan no less than every five years and deliver a report to Congress within 90 days in light of the rapidly changing geopolitical landscape and threats of an invasion by China, was signed into law:

“America’s diplomatic guidance must be able to keep up with the ever-evolving threat China poses to the Indo-Pacific, including our friend and ally Taiwan,” said Sen. Cornyn. “Our legislation will reinstate a strong Taiwan strategy at the State Department at a time when we need it most, and I’m glad it is now the law of the land thanks to President Trump.”

“When I traveled to Taiwan earlier this year, I saw firsthand its importance for securing a free and open Indo-Pacific,” said Sen. Coons. “With the passage of the Taiwan Assurance Implementation Act, Congress has reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to a strong United States-Taiwan partnership. This legislation will strengthen our shared values and reinforce stability across the region. I’m proud to see this bill become a reality.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/photo-cornyn-meets-with-port-of-corpus-christi-leadership-2/,PHOTO: Cornyn Meets with Port of Corpus Christi Leadership,2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) met today with Port of Corpus Christi leadership to discuss bolstering the Port’s operations, permitting challenges, and energy exports to our allies. Those in attendance included the Port Commission’s Chairman, David Engel, the Port’s CEO, Kent Britton, the Port’s Commissioner, Michael Pedrotti, and others. See photo attached and below.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-bills-to-combat-fentanyl-crisis-signed-into-law/,Cornyn Bills to Combat Fentanyl Crisis Signed into Law,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after his Halting the Epidemic of Addiction and Loss (HEAL) Act, which would expand access to new opioid overdose reversal agents in addition to naloxone by updating guidance and grant language from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and his Improving Access to Addiction Medicine Providers Act, which would add addiction medicine as an eligible medical field for fellowships under the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), were signed into law by President Trump:

“The opioid crisis continues to ravage communities across our nation, but there are effective and evidence-based solutions we can implement to curb its virulence,” said Sen. Cornyn. “These bills will help save lives by expanding access to overdose reversal agents and providers in the field of addiction medicine, and I am grateful to President Trump for signing them into law.”

Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-NH) is a cosponsor of the Halting the Epidemic of Addiction and Loss (HEAL) Act, and Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) is a cosponsor of the Improving Access to Addiction Medicine Providers Act.

Background:

For the first time in years, new data revealed overdose deaths decreased nearly 30% from the previous year to more than 80,000 deaths in 2024, with 60% of those deaths involving synthetic opioids like fentanyl. As the U.S. continues to grapple with the opioid crisis, access to overdose reversal agents like naloxone is essential to preventing overdoses and deaths. Current HHS guidance and grant language has inadvertently created a monopoly by limiting regulations, guidance, and grants to naloxone, which restricts access to other FDA-approved and potential “next-generation” overdose reversal agents.

Sen. Cornyn has long spearheaded the fight in the Senate to combat the fentanyl crisis and has held half a dozen events across Texas to raise awareness of the perils of this drug, including in Dallas, Austin, Carrollton, DFW, and San Antonio. He has also introduced legislation aimed at combatting illegal pill presses. Sen. Cornyn serves as chair of the U.S. Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control for the 119th Congress.

Sen. Cornyn’s HEAL Act will:

Ensure that whenever HHS issues a regulation or guidance for any grant program addressing opioid misuse and use disorders, any reference to an opioid overdose reversal agent, such as naloxone, is inclusive of any opioid overdose reversal agent that has been approved or otherwise authorized for use by the FDA.

Update naloxone-specific references to be “molecule agnostic” in regulation, guidance, and specific grant programs, including the State Opioid Response Grant (SOR) and the Tribal Opioid Response Grant (TOR).

Provide states, local governments, tribes, and nonprofits that receive HHS and SAMHSA grant funding or guidance the opportunity to use the product that best meets the needs of their communities.

Sen. Cornyn’s Improving Access to Addiction Medicine Providers Act will add addiction medicine as an eligible medical field for fellowships under the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

The HEAL Act is endorsed by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Addiction Policy Forum, Association of Prosecuting Attorneys, Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO), Association for Addiction Professionals, National Association for Children Impacted by Addiction, National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Agency Directors (NASADAD), National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors, Office of Recovery & Reentry, and 30 others. The Improving Access to Addiction Medicine Providers Act is endorsed by The National Alliance on Mental Illness and the American Society of Addiction Medicine.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-introduces-bill-to-reauthorize-critical-state-and-local-cybersecurity-grant-program/,Cornyn Introduces Bill to Reauthorize Critical State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), along with Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), introduced the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program Reauthorization Act, which would reauthorize the state and local cybersecurity grant program that Sen. Cornyn helped create in 2021 and ensure recipients can continue building on the important cybersecurity work already underway with these resources:

“As the digital threat landscape continues to evolve and grow more perilous, it’s imperative that Texans are able to defend against harmful attacks online,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I am proud to have created this program, which has provided nearly $40 million in resources for Texas, and this legislation will continue to ensure communities across the Lone Star State are equipped with the tools necessary to maintain vigilance and improve cybersecurity.”

Background:

The State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program, administered by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), has provided $1 billion to help state, local, and tribal governments prioritize cybersecurity investments and protect the critical systems and services that citizens rely on. The reauthorization would allow this successful program to continue supporting these investments.

The program provides funding to support various cybersecurity improvements, including new staff, service enhancements, planning, and exercises. Funding from the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) and the Tribal Cybersecurity Grant Program (TCGP) helps eligible entities address cybersecurity risks and threats to information systems owned or operated by or on behalf of state, local, tribal, and territorial governments.

In FY24, Texas received nearly $13 million through this program, which was the most out of any state. Furthermore, Texas has received the most funding nationwide every year since this program was established, totaling roughly $40 million over three years.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-praises-law-enforcement-for-arresting-charging-afghan-citizen-living-in-texas-who-threatened-to-build-bomb-kill-americans/,"Cornyn Praises Law Enforcement for Arresting, Charging Afghan Citizen Living in Texas Who Threatened to Build Bomb, Kill Americans",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today released the following statement praising the U.S. Department of Justice and federal and state law enforcement for arresting and charging Mohammad Dawood Alokozay, a citizen of Afghanistan residing in Fort Worth, Texas, for threatening to build a bomb, conduct a suicide attack, and kill Americans in a video posted on multiple social media platforms. Sen. Cornyn also slammed the Biden administration’s Operation Allies Welcome parole program, which he has long raised concerns about, for allowing Alokozay as well as the shooter in last week’s attack on two National Guard soldiers in Washington, D.C., into the country:

“I commend Attorney General Bondi and the entire Department of Justice and FBI, as well as our brave law enforcement officers on the ground in Dallas and Fort Worth, for keeping Texans safe by arresting and charging this evil individual for his despicable threats and preventing yet another potential terrorist attack on U.S. soil. I look forward to seeing him held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

“Under Joe Biden’s Operation Allies Welcome program, 77,000 Afghans were paroled into the U.S. with insufficient vetting and minimal oversight. This sick person, who was living in Fort Worth while posting heinous videos threatening to kill Americans, is the latest example of the abject failures of this program, which also allowed the shooter in last week’s ambush on our National Guard soldiers in Washington, D.C., to roam our streets. I have long been concerned about the woefully insufficient vetting protocols of this Biden-era program, and now we are seeing the risks – and in last week’s case, grave consequences – play out in real time.”

“Let me be clear: If you seek to do this great country or its citizens harm, you are not welcome. And if you are already here thanks to the lax policies of the Biden administration, know that under President Trump, we will find you and make sure justice is served.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-cruz-statement-following-president-trump-signing-the-medal-act-into-law,Sen. Cruz Statement Following President Trump Signing the MEDAL Act into Law,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement after President Donald Trump signed the House version of his Monetary Enhancement for Distinguished Active Legends (MEDAL) Act into law. This legislation increases the monthly pension for living Medal of Honor recipients to $67,500 annually. It unanimously passed the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives

Sen. Cruz said, “The Medal of Honor is our nation’s highest military honor, reserved only for those who have distinguished themselves through acts of valor that go above and beyond the call of duty. While we will never be able to repay the debt we owe to the men and women whose actions earned them this medal, we can continue to honor them by ensuring they are cared for, respected, and supported. I’m deeply thankful to President Trump for signing the MEDAL Act into law.”

The legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Troy Nehls (R-Texas-22).

Rep. Nehls said, “Medal of Honor recipients embody the best of our nation. They never ask for special recognition or demand special treatment. Many of them spend most of their time traveling our country, telling their stories, inspiring the next generation of America’s heroes. My bill, H.R. 695, the Medal of Honor Act, eases the financial burden of our nation’s highest decorated Veterans by increasing their special pension—ensuring they know America is grateful for all they’ve done to serve our country and defend our freedoms. After five years of fighting for this bill to become law, I thank Senator Ted Cruz for pushing my bill through the Senate, and I’m beyond grateful to President Trump for making my legislation the law of the land.”

Read the Medal of Honor Act here.

BACKGROUND

The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration bestowed by the United States. There are only 61 living Medal of Honor recipients.

Medal of Honor recipients are often not retired from the U.S. military and often receive no compensation for the costs of their public engagements. Through these appearances, they share stories of heroism that inspire Americans, strengthen national pride, and support military recruiting and retention. Increasing their monthly pensions is essential to easing the financial burden on their families and ensuring they can continue representing the best of our nation’s values.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-cruz-booker-urge-fortune-1000-ceos-to-back-trump-accounts,"Sens. Cruz, Booker Urge Fortune 1000 CEOs to Back Trump Accounts",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) sent a letter to the CEOs of Fortune 1000 companies urging them to support Trump Accounts. The accounts, established by a law authored by Sen. Cruz and passed as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill, are private, tax-advantaged accounts for every American child at birth, seeded with a $1,000 investment from the federal government.

Read the full letter here or below:

“Next year, millions of American children will open a “Trump Account” a groundbreaking new investment vehicle enacted as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) Act. These accounts will launch a once-in-a-generation expansion of economic opportunity and prosperity for every American child, helping millions of families realize the American dream through homeownership, education, or entrepreneurship. As champions of the policies that ground the Invest America Act, which created the $1,000 seeded account for every child born in the United States and allows for additional private investment to grow with our capital markets, we write to encourage you to join us in delivering on this promise for our country.

“These tax-advantaged accounts ensure that every American child is an immediate shareholder in America’s largest companies and will experience the miracle of compound growth through their lifetime. We believe these accounts—much like 401(k)s—represent a transformative tool for building long-term financial security, expanding economic prosperity, and fundamentally restoring confidence in American capitalism.

“This initiative was deliberately designed to allow contributions not only from family, friends, and philanthropists, but also from employers who wish to invest in the future of their employees’ children. This structure creates a unique opportunity for corporate America to lead with action. Many companies have already pledged support, and we encourage your company to explore how you might contribute at a level aligned with your mission and capacity. By matching contributions for employees’ families, investing in the communities where you operate, or integrating these accounts into your philanthropic strategy, you can significantly enhance the impact of this historic initiative.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-honors-heroism-of-attacked-national-guardsmen-slams-notorious-biden-afghan-parole-program/,"Cornyn Honors Heroism of Attacked National Guardsmen, Slams ‘Notorious’ Biden Afghan Parole Program",2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) honored the heroism and sacrifice of two National Guard soldiers who were attacked last week in Washington, D.C., by an Afghan national who came into our country not through a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) but through one of the Biden administration’s parole programs, which Sen. Cornyn opposed and raised alarm bells about last year after another Afghan national was arrested in connection with a plot to commit a violent attack on behalf of ISIS in the U.S. on Election Day. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.

“On Wednesday, two of our National Guard servicemembers stationed near the White House were shot in a targeted ambush.”

“The perpetrator was an Afghan parolee – that has special significance – who entered the country under the Biden administration’s Operation Allies Welcome program, which was notorious for insufficient vetting of Afghan refugees.”

“I raised alarm bells about this mass parole of Afghan refugees back in 2024, when I co-led a letter to the Department of Homeland Security Mayorkas, pressing the Biden administration for their inadequate screening processes for Afghan refugees, including some who were later found to have had ties to ISIS.”

“This risk and the threat of these kind of deadly results was something that many of us were concerned about and raised with the Biden administration a long time before the tragic incidents of this Thanksgiving season.”

“Unfortunately, that prediction of this massive parole of 77,000 Afghans into the United States under the Biden administration’s Operation Allies Welcome program – that prediction proved to be true and come to pass.”

“Our prayers continue to go out to the family of Sarah Beckstrom, an American hero, who gave and made the ultimate sacrifice for her country, and we continue to pray for the full recovery of Andrew Wolfe.”

“I’m grateful to President Trump, to FBI Director Patel, for their swift response and for their commitment to bring the perpetrator of this heinous event to justice. But even more than that, we need to make sure that it does not reoccur through other paroled, poorly or insufficiently vetted Afghan parolees.”

“Unfortunately, this is part of the legacy of the Biden administration’s open borders and immigration policies.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-meets-with-nasa-administrator-nominee-jared-isaacman-2/,Cornyn Meets with NASA Administrator Nominee Jared Isaacman,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"Background:

Sen. Cornyn spearheaded the Bring the Space Shuttle Home Act to move the Space Shuttle Discovery from Virginia to its rightful home near NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. This provision was included and passed in the One Big Beautiful Bill, now law.

Mission Control at NASA’s Johnson Space Center led all of the space shuttle flights throughout the program’s history, and the astronauts who flew aboard the shuttles lived and trained in the area Houston. Four space shuttles were retired from NASA in 2010, and one of them was expected to go on display in the Space City. Congress stated in the NASA Authorization Act of 2010 that the four space shuttles were to be given to states with a “historical relationship with either the launch, flight operations, or processing of the Space Shuttle orbiters or the retrieval of NASA-manned space vehicles, or significant contributions to human space flight.” Unfortunately, this directive was unlawfully ignored by the Obama administration, who played politics to keep Houston from getting one of the shuttles. Notably, the administration gave one of the four shuttles to New York City, which has not made any major contributions to the nation’s history of space exploration and is not home to a NASA center—unlike Houston.

Furthermore, provisions led by Sen. Cornyn, including the Mission to Modernize Astronautic Resources for Space (MARS) Act, as well as funding for National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) Artemis program and resources to support the International Space Station (ISS) were also included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Last month, Sen. Cornyn introduced the Space Research And Continuing Exploration (RACE) Act to bolster America’s space exploration and research capabilities through the creation of a National Institute for Space Research and ensure the nation is equipped to lead in the next space race. As the International Space Station (ISS) approaches retirement, there is an urgent need to ensure uninterrupted access to microgravity research capabilities that underpin advances in national defense, biotechnology, and space manufacturing.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-calls-on-senate-appropriators-to-prevent-taxpayer-funded-abortions-maintain-hyde-protections-in-fy26-funding-process/,"Cornyn Calls on Senate Appropriators to Prevent Taxpayer-Funded Abortions, Maintain Hyde Protections in FY26 Funding Process",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) sent a letter to Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies, urging them to ensure any Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations package maintains critical provisions that protect against federal funding of elective abortions:

“Since 1976, the Hyde Amendment has been included in the annual Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies bill to prevent taxpayer funding from being used for elective abortions, saving more than 2,646,000 lives in the five decades since,” wrote Sen. Cornyn.

“Following the Biden Administration’s unprecedented attacks on the unborn, Congressional Republicans and President Trump took a critical step in the fight for life by passing legislation in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to defund the big abortion industry, including Planned Parenthood. By halting taxpayer funding of abortion through the Medicaid program, Republicans showed that even in the wake of the historic Dobbs decision, our fight is not over, and we reasserted our commitment to protecting the most vulnerable in our communities,” he continued.

“I urge appropriators to hold the line against any Democratic efforts to subvert the Hyde amendment; we must maintain all current protections against taxpayer-funded abortions,” he concluded.

The full text of the letter is available here and below.

November 24, 2025

Dear Chairwoman Collins and Subcommittee Chairwoman Capito:

Thank you for your ongoing work towards completing the appropriations process for Fiscal Year 2026. As negotiations with your Democratic counterparts continue, I urge you to maintain all provisions that protect against federal funding of elective abortions in any potential conference agreement or appropriations package.

Since 1976, the Hyde Amendment has been included in the annual Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies bill to prevent taxpayer funding from being used for elective abortions, saving more than 2,646,000 lives in the five decades since.

Following the Biden Administration’s unprecedented attacks on the unborn, Congressional Republicans and President Trump took a critical step in the fight for life by passing legislation in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to defund the big abortion industry, including Planned Parenthood. By halting taxpayer funding of abortion through the Medicaid program, Republicans showed that even in the wake of the historic Dobbs decision, our fight is not over, and we reasserted our commitment to protecting the most vulnerable in our communities. The ongoing legal fight over this provision highlights the continued threat of the big abortion industry and the need for pro-life lawmakers to remain vigilant.

Democrats shut down the government for 43 days in an unsuccessful attempt to undue the work Republicans accomplished in the OBBBA, including the progress we made to stop forced taxpayer funding of abortion. Now is not the time to give an inch on our pro-life values. As you work towards securing further funding agreements for Fiscal Year 2026, I urge appropriators to hold the line against any Democratic efforts to subvert the Hyde amendment; we must maintain all current protections against taxpayer-funded abortions. Lives, and futures, are at stake.

Thank you for your continued work and attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

/s/",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-cruz-file-amicus-brief-backing-texas-emergency-application-to-implement-new-congressional-map/,"Cornyn, Cruz File Amicus Brief Backing Texas’ Emergency Application to Implement New Congressional Map",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) yesterday filed an amicus brief in support of the State of Texas’ emergency application to the U.S. Supreme Court for a stay of the district court injunction that barred Texas from implementing its new congressional district map. The Senators did so in part on the basis of the Purcell principle, which holds that courts should not change election rules shortly before an election.

“The Texas legislature holds the authority to redraw the state’s congressional districts, and as we quickly approach the 2026 election, it is critical for both voters and candidates that the State’s new map be in place,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I’m proud to file this amicus brief in support of Texas’ emergency application to the U.S. Supreme Court to help ensure Texans get a fair election next year using the congressional district map passed by the Texas legislature.”

“The Constitution entrusts redistricting matters to the states and to state legislators,” said Sen. Cruz. “The federal district court’s preliminary injunction was not made on the merits of the case, runs counter to precedent and to principles of federalism, and undermines the prerogatives of Texas lawmakers and the will of Texas voters. The Supreme Court should stay that preliminary injunction, and do so expeditiously in order to provide certainty in our election maps and rules as we approach deadlines for the 2026 election.”

Excerpts from the amicus brief are below, and the full text of the brief can be viewed here.

The Senators wrote: “On November 18, 2025, a split, three-judge district court of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas threw caution to the wind and held that a group of six advocacy groups (collectively, ‘Plaintiffs’) were entitled to a preliminary injunction because it believed the Texas Legislature’s new congressional district maps, enacted in August 2025, ‘racially gerrymandered’ eight (out of thirty eight) districts in violation of the Fourteenth Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause.”

“To remedy this perceived violation, the district court ordered Texas to revert to its 2021 congressional map. By granting the injunction, the district court violated the Purcell principle, a ‘bedrock tenet of election law,’ which prohibits federal judges from altering State election rules and procedures shortly before such elections are held,” the lawmakers continued.

“By failing to apply Purcell, the court caused massive disruption, chaos and confusion within the State itself, as well as for political parties, candidates, local election officials, and Texas voters. Consequently, the district court’s preliminary injunction must be stayed pending further order of this Court,” they continued.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-lee-introduce-bill-to-prevent-criminal-non-citizens-from-skipping-bail-or-fleeing-u-s/,"Cornyn, Lee Introduce Bill to Prevent Criminal Non-Citizens From Skipping Bail or Fleeing U.S.",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Flight Risk Reduction Act, which would prevent criminal defendants who are not U.S. citizens from fleeing or failing to appear for trial:

“This legislation would alter current law to help ensure criminal defendants who are not U.S. citizens are held pending trial rather than being granted bail and potentially skipping bail or fleeing the country before facing justice for their crimes, and I’m glad to support it,” said Sen. Cornyn.

“Our communities are unsafe when non-US citizens exploit loopholes to escape our justice system and continually break our laws,” said Sen. Lee. “Just this week in Salt Lake, a suspected rapist told our police he plans to return to Peru after his assault of a local university student. Under President Biden, more than 150,000 illegal aliens skipped their criminal hearings in 2023. That is eight times the rate from before he took office. The Flight Risk Reduction Act ensures courts have the necessary power to detain non-citizen criminals before trial, unless they can prove they are not a flight risk.”

The legislation is also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Jim Banks (R-IN), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Ashley Moody (R-FL), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and Thom Tillis (R-NC).

Background:

Currently, detention hearings are automatically triggered for certain cases to assess whether a criminal defendant might flee. The Flight Risk Reduction Act would add non-U.S. citizenship as an automatic trigger for such hearings. Additionally, it would:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-cruz-introduces-bill-to-stop-abuse-of_federal-retirement-funds-for-dei-and-esg,Sen. Cruz Introduces Bill to Stop Abuse of  Federal Retirement Funds for DEI and ESG,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the Stop TSP ESG Act. The legislation would prevent professional asset managers who manage federal employee retirement funds from using those taxpayer dollars to push Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies through corporate shareholder votes. The retirement savings program for U.S. government employees is the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), which holds over $1 trillion in assets and in which the core mutual funds are managed primarily by BlackRock Capital Advisers and State Street Global Advisors, which use their TSP holdings to exert proxy voting power to push ESG and DEI policies.

Sen. Cruz said, “Americans deserve assurance that their retirement savings are being invested in the most fiscally responsible ways. Instead investment fund managers are using the retirement savings of federal employees to push ESG and DEI agendas that conflict with their investors’ interests. The Stop TSP ESG Act would end that practice and restore accountability, and I urge my colleagues to pass it expeditiously.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-cruz-cornyn-file-amicus-brief-backing-texas-emergency-application-to-implement-new-congressional-map,"Sens. Cruz, Cornyn File Amicus Brief Backing Texas’ Emergency Application to Implement New Congressional Map",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Federal Courts, Oversight, Agency Action, and Federal Rights, and John Cornyn (R-Texas) filed an amicus brief in support of the State of Texas’ emergency application to the U.S. Supreme Court for a stay of the district court injunction that barred Texas from implementing its new congressional district map. The Senators did so in part on the basis of the Purcell principle, which holds that courts should not change election rules shortly before an election.

Sen. Cruz said, “The Constitution entrusts redistricting matters to the states and to state legislators. The federal district court’s preliminary injunction was not made on the merits of the case, runs counter to precedent and to principles of federalism, and undermines the prerogatives of Texas lawmakers and the will of Texas voters. The Supreme Court should stay that preliminary injunction, and do so expeditiously in order to provide certainty in our election maps and rules as we approach deadlines for the 2026 election.”

Sen. Cornyn said, “The Texas legislature holds the authority to redraw the state’s congressional districts, and as we quickly approach the 2026 election, it is critical for both voters and candidates that the State’s new map be in place. I’m proud to file this amicus brief in support of Texas’ emergency application to the U.S. Supreme Court to help ensure Texans get a fair election next year using the congressional district map passed by the Texas legislature.”

Excerpts from the amicus brief are below, and the full text of the brief can be viewed here.

“On November 18, 2025, a split, three-judge district court of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas threw caution to the wind and held that a group of six advocacy groups (collectively, ‘Plaintiffs’) were entitled to a preliminary injunction because it believed the Texas Legislature’s new congressional district maps, enacted in August 2025, ‘racially gerrymandered’ eight (out of thirty eight) districts in violation of the Fourteenth Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause.

“To remedy this perceived violation, the district court ordered Texas to revert to its 2021 congressional map. By granting the injunction, the district court violated the Purcell principle, a ‘bedrock tenet of election law,’ which prohibits federal judges from altering State election rules and procedures shortly before such elections are held.

“By failing to apply Purcell, the court caused massive disruption, chaos and confusion within the State itself, as well as for political parties, candidates, local election officials, and Texas voters. Consequently, the district court’s preliminary injunction must be stayed pending further order of this Court.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-protect-medical-residents-from-coercive-abortion-training/,"Cornyn, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Protect Medical Residents from Coercive Abortion Training",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), along with Senator James Lankford (R-OK) and a group of their Senate GOP colleagues, introduced the Conscience Protections for Medical Residents Act, which would ensure medical students and residents are never pressured or coerced into abortion training that violates their moral or religious beliefs and establishes clear federal protections so residents are not forced to choose between their conscience and their careers:

“The first rule of medicine is to do no harm, yet for many aspiring doctors, coerced abortion training not only contradicts that oath but also violates their moral and religious beliefs,” said Sen. Cornyn. “By allowing medical residents to opt-in rather than opt-out of abortion training, this legislation would protect health care professionals’ convictions and give them the freedom to practice medicine without fear of retaliation.”

The Conscience Protections for Medical Residents Act, led by Senator James Lankford (R-OK), was cosponsored by Sens. Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Jim Banks (R-IN), Steve Daines (R-MT), Katie Britt (R-AL), Rick Scott (R-FL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Todd Young (R-IN).

Background:

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

The Conscience Protections for Medical Residents Act replaces the opt-out system with an opt-in system. It ensures residents can choose whether to participate in abortion training and protects them from discrimination or retaliation if they decline.

This legislation is endorsed by AAPLOG Action, SBA, ADF, AUL, NRLC, CURE, CatholicVote, Vitae Foundation, Human Coalition, March for Life Action, Heartbeat International, SFLA Action, CWALAC, ERLC, Live Action, Heritage Action, FPA, Liberty Counsel, FRC, and Liberty Counsel Action.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-urges-olympic-committee-to-finalize-ban-on-men-competing-in-womens-sports/,Cornyn Urges Olympic Committee to Finalize Ban on Men Competing in Women’s Sports,2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today sent a letter to the newly elected President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Kirsty Coventry, urging the IOC to finalize and implement a ban on biological males competing in female categories at the Olympic Games to ensure fairness, safety, and integrity in women’s sports:

“Reports indicate the working group is moving towards a complete ban on biological males competing in female events, but that decision is not yet confirmed. I urge the IOC to move swiftly toward a clear and decisive policy that protects fair and safe competition for women and prohibits biological males from competing in female categories,” wrote Sen. Cornyn.

“With the Winter Games rapidly approaching in February and preparation well underway for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, timely action is essential. As the IOC continues its deliberations, this issue has become a global policy concern and a question of athletic integrity. In the United States, President Trump honored his unwavering commitment to women and girls with the issuance of Executive Order 14201: Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports. His action reaffirmed the longstanding belief that women’s sports must be preserved for biological females,” he continued.

“I applaud your commitment to addressing this issue and respectfully urge the International Olympic Committee to finalize the ban on biological males competing in female sports, without delay,” he concluded.

The full text of the letter is available here and below.

November 24, 2025

Ms. Kirsty Coventry

President, International Olympic Committee

Route de Vidy

1007 Lausanne, Switzerland

Dear President Coventry,

Congratulations on your historic election victory as the first female and first African President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Your remarkable career as a seven-time Olympic medalist reflects a deep personal commitment to excellence, integrity, and fair competition. I commend you for immediately demonstrating that commitment by establishing a working group dedicated to evaluating eligibility policies in women’s sports, an issue of profound importance to athletes here in the United States and around the world.

Reports indicate the working group is moving towards a complete ban on biological males competing in female events, but that decision is not yet confirmed. I urge the IOC to move swiftly toward a clear and decisive policy that protects fair and safe competition for women and prohibits biological males from competing in female categories. Scientific evidence demonstrates that biological males, even after hormone therapy, retain significant physiological advantages over biological females. These advantages include greater bone density, enhanced muscle mass, improved aerobic capacity, and increased cardiac output. Any policy designed to protect fairness in women’s athletics must reflect these empirical realities. The IOC’s announcement is not expected until next year, and it remains unclear if the new guidance will apply to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. With the Winter Games rapidly approaching in February and preparation well underway for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, timely action is essential.

As the IOC continues its deliberations, this issue has become a global policy concern and a question of athletic integrity. In the United States, President Trump honored his unwavering commitment to women and girls with the issuance of Executive Order 14201: Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports. His action reaffirmed the longstanding belief that women’s sports must be preserved for biological females and declared that “it is the policy of the United States to rescind all funds from educational programs that deprive women and girls of fair athletic opportunities, which results in the endangerment, humiliation, and silencing of women and girls and deprives them of privacy.” President Trump’s leadership encouraged both the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee to update their policies to ensure that only athletes assigned female at birth may compete in women’s sports. On the international stage, the World Boxing Organization declared that all athletes will be subject to mandatory chromosomal testing to guarantee that athletes compete in the category of their sex at birth. In the United Kingdom, the Football Association (FA) recently determined that biological males will no longer be permitted to compete in women’s football. These policies reflect the understanding that fairness, safety, and equal opportunity for women are compromised when biological males are permitted to compete in female sports.

I applaud your commitment to addressing this issue and respectfully urge the International Olympic Committee to finalize the ban on biological males competing in female sports, without delay. Thank you for your attention and dedication to protecting women’s athletics.

Sincerely,

/s/",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-cruz-statement-on-president-trumps-executive-order-on-muslim-brotherhood-terrorism-designations,Sen. Cruz Statement on President Trump’s Executive Order on Muslim Brotherhood Terrorism Designations,2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement after President Donald Trump announced that the United States will begin a process to designate Muslim Brotherhood branches as terrorist organizations.

Sen. Cruz said,“I applaud President Trump for his leadership in advancing and announcing today’s Executive Order, which is critical to American national security and to the safety of Americans. This battle has been over a decade in the making, and it faced fierce resistance from supporters of the Muslim Brotherhood abroad and from deeply embedded bureaucrats across the U.S. government. The Muslim Brotherhood and its branches encourage, facilitate, and provide resources for conducting jihadist terrorism across the world. They are committed to overthrowing the United States and the governments of our allies. I have been leading the fight in Congress to secure designations for my entire tenure in the Senate. The process will now advance purposefully within the administration under President Trump, and now is the time to build on today’s decision in Congress. I call on the Senate to expeditiously advance my Muslim Brotherhood Terrorist Designation Act of 2025, which will lock in designations, provide additional resources for protecting Americans from the Brotherhood and its branches, and has bipartisan support and momentum in both the House and the Senate.”

BACKGROUND",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-budd-introduce-bill-to-ban-terrorist-sympathizers-from-u-s/,"Cornyn, Budd Introduce Bill to Ban Terrorist Sympathizers from U.S.",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Budd (R-NC) introduced the Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act, which would expand a provision in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to make any member of or person who publicly endorses the terrorist activities of Hamas, Hezbollah, Al-Qaeda, ISIS, and Palestine Islamic Jihad, or any successor or affiliate group inadmissible to the United States:

“In the aftermath of Hamas’ unprovoked attack on Israel two years ago, we’ve seen an alarming wave of antisemitic, pro-terrorist advocacy by foreign visa holders present in the U.S. who seek to do Americans harm,” said Sen. Cornyn. “By broadening the Immigration and Nationality Act, this commonsense legislation would ensure those who support or sympathize with terrorist groups and their affiliates are inadmissible to the United States, and I’m proud to support it.”

“Ever since the horrific terrorist attacks of October 7, we have seen a dramatic rise in pro-Hamas rhetoric across our country, including from international students here on visas. This needs to stop,” said Sen. Budd. “Those seeking to come to the U.S., whether for school, work, or otherwise, and who publicly endorse Foreign Terrorist Organizations, must face consequences for their actions. The Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act will close ambiguous loopholes in our immigration law by prohibiting them from entering our borders.”

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Steve Daines (R-MT), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and Rick Scott (R-FL) also cosponsored the legislation. U.S. Representative August Pfluger (TX-11) previously introduced the legislation in the House of Representatives.

Background:

Following Hamas’ unprovoked attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, there has been a wave of anti-Israel, antisemitic, and pro-Hamas advocacy by foreign visa holders present in the United States, as well as visa applicants seeking to enter the country. The Trump administration has revoked the visas of individuals who engaged in pro-Hamas advocacy and tightened the vetting process to detect such advocacy conducted by visa applicants.

Currently, the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) states that “an alien who is an officer, official, representative, or spokesman of the Palestine Liberation Organization” is considered to be “engaged in a terrorist activity” and therefore inadmissible to the United States. The Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act would expand this provision to include a “spokesperson, or member of the Palestine Liberation Organization, Hamas, Hezbollah, Al-Qaeda, ISIS, Palestine Islamic Jihad, or any successor or affiliate group” or someone “who endorses or espouses terrorist activities conducted by any of the aforementioned groups.” It would also close potential loopholes by making this ban explicit in statute rather than relying on agencies to make these terrorism designations on a case-by-case basis.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-colleagues-bill-to-help-adjust-military-life-insurance-for-inflation-heads-to-presidents-desk/,"Cornyn, Colleagues’ Bill to Help Adjust Military Life Insurance for Inflation Heads to President’s Desk",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Angus King (I-ME) released the following statements after their Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act, which would help ensure life insurance packages for service members and veterans account for increases in cost of living and inflation, passed the Senate and now heads to the President’s desk:

“We need to make sure service members, veterans, and their families have the financial support they need and deserve,” said Sen. Cornyn. “Our bill will help ensure the Veterans Affairs Department can offer competitive life insurance packages that keep pace with the current cost of living.”

“While we can never fully repay the debt that we owe to those who serve our country, we should work each and every day to get them the benefits that they deserve,” said Sen. Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation will help ensure that the life insurance offered for our veterans and servicemembers is keeping pace with real-world costs to help protect the financial security of the families of those who serve.”

“Our nation’s service members and veterans put their lives on the line to protect America and defend our freedom,” said Sen. Cruz. “I am proud to partner with my colleagues to honor and provide for those who bravely sacrificed to serve the United States of America. Adjusting the value of the life insurance policies of servicemembers and veterans in line with inflation will ensure that America rightly honors their memory and cares for their loved ones after they are gone.”

“Abraham Lincoln himself said that America ‘must care for him who shall have borne the battle;’ 150 years later we must keep that promise to the brave men and women who served out country in uniform,” said Sen. King. “Our servicemembers, veterans, and their families make incredible sacrifices every day to protect our nation, and it is our responsibility to support them. I am proud to see the bipartisan Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act pass the Senate, ensuring that life insurance packages for military members keep up with the rising cost of living. This legislation will give more peace of mind to military families in the midst of turbulent economic times, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law.”

This legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI). Representatives Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Keith Self (TX-03) are leading the legislation in the House.

Background:

The Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act would help ensure the maximum group insurance available to service members and veterans account for increases in cost of living. From 2006 to 2023, the maximum insurance value available for service members and veterans remained static, lagging far behind inflation rates. This bill would strengthen the financial safety net for veterans, service members, and their families by requiring a report to the U.S. Veterans Affairs Department, the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs regarding cost of living increases and inflation rates every five years to ensure they don’t go years without assessing inflation rates.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-coons-colleagues-bill-to-protect-state-and-local-judges-passes-senate-2/,"Cornyn, Coons, Colleagues’ Bill to Protect State and Local Judges Passes Senate",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Chris Coons (D-DE), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) released the following statements after their Countering Threats and Attacks on Our Judges Act, which would establish a State Judicial Threat Intelligence and Resource Center to provide technical assistance, training, and threat monitoring for state and local judges and court personnel, passed the Senate:

“With threats against judges and their families increasing at an alarming rate, more must be done to protect them,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would establish a much-needed resource center to identify and respond to bad actors, ensuring our nation’s courts and the Americans who work in them every day are safe.”

“Every public servant, including the members of our state and local judiciary, should be able to do their jobs free from threats to themselves, their families, or their livelihoods,” said Sen. Coons. “That’s why this bipartisan bill has seen such broad support in the Senate and from state judges and court officials across the country. I urge the House to swiftly pass this bill into law to protect the free and fair courts on which our nation relies and the people who keep them running.”

“Judges perform a critical community service at every level of our justice system,” said Sen. Moran. “Regardless of how a judge rules on a case, any form of harassment or intimidation is unacceptable. In response to growing threats and attacks against members of the judiciary, this legislation would provide needed resources and support to local law enforcement tasked with protecting judges and courthouses.”

“Online mobs have increasingly lobbed violent threats against judges, including in Rhode Island, for ruling against the Trump administration. Judges and court officials must be able to conduct their work without fearing for their lives or their family’s safety,” said Sen. Whitehouse. “This timely bipartisan bill would bolster security at courthouses and judges’ homes to help protect the integrity of our judicial system. We also need to make sure that orchestration of threats is properly investigated.”

“We’re seeing an alarming surge of dangerous threats and actions targeting judges across this nation – stoking the flames of violence towards public servants and their families,” said Sen. Shaheen. “I’m proud our bipartisan, commonsense solution to this troubling trend passed the Senate, establishing a State Judicial Threat Intelligence and Resource Center to implement enhanced security measures to keep judges, their families and their staff out of harm’s way.”

U.S. Senators Josh Hawley (R-MO), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), John Barrasso (R-WY), Raphael Warnock (R-GA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Todd Young (R-IN), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), also cosponsored the legislation. U.S. Representatives Michael McCaul (TX-10) and Lucy McBath (GA-06) led companion legislation in the House.

Background:

The Countering Threats and Attacks on Our Judges Act would create a State Judicial Threat Intelligence and Resource Center to:

Provide technical assistance to state and local judges and court personnel around judicial security;

Provide physical security assessments for courts, homes, and other facilities where judicial officers and staff conduct court-related business;

Conduct research to identify, examine, and advance best practices around judicial security;

And be housed within the existing State Justice Institute, a private nonprofit and nonpartisan corporation established by Congress in 1984.

The legislation is supported by the Conference of Chief Justices (CCJ), Conference of State Court Administrators (COSCA), Council of Chief Judges of the State Courts of Appeal (CCJSCA), National Association for Presiding Judges and Court Executive Officers (NAPCO), National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ), National Center for State Courts (NCSC), American Judges Association (AJA), National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ), and National Center for State Courts (NCSC).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cruz-cornyn-and-colleagues-bipartisan-bill-updating-life-insurance-for-servicemembers-and-veterans-to-be-signed-into-law,"Cruz, Cornyn, and Colleagues’ Bipartisan Bill Updating Life Insurance for Servicemembers and Veterans to Be Signed into Law",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), and Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statements after their bipartisan Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act passed the Senate. This bill would help ensure that life insurance packages for service members and veterans account for increases in the cost of living and inflation. The legislation now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

Sen Cruz said, “Our nation’s servicemembers and veterans put their lives on the line to protect America and defend our freedom. I am proud to partner with my colleagues to honor and provide for those who bravely sacrificed to serve the United States of America. Adjusting the value of life insurance policies for servicemembers and veterans in line with inflation will ensure that America rightly honors their memory and cares for their loved ones after they are gone.”

Sen. Hassan said, “While we can never fully repay the debt that we owe to those who serve our country, we should work each and every day to get them the benefits that they deserve. This bipartisan legislation will help ensure that the life insurance offered for our veterans and servicemembers is keeping pace with real-world costs to help protect the financial security of the families of those who serve.”

Sen. Cornyn said, “We need to make sure service members, veterans, and their families have the financial support they need and deserve. Our bill will help ensure the Veterans Affairs Department can offer competitive life insurance packages that keep pace with the current cost of living.”

Sen. King said, “Abraham Lincoln himself said that America ‘must care for him who shall have borne the battle;’ 150 years later we must keep that promise to the brave men and women who served our country in uniform. Our servicemembers, veterans, and their families make incredible sacrifices every day to protect our nation, and it is our responsibility to support them. I am proud to see the bipartisan Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act pass the Senate, ensuring that life insurance packages for military members keep up with the rising cost of living. This legislation will give more peace of mind to military families in the midst of turbulent economic times, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law.”

This legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii). Representatives Marilyn Strickland (D-Wash.-10) and Keith Self (R-Texas-03) are leading the legislation in the House.

BACKGROUND

The Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act would help ensure the maximum group insurance available to service members and veterans accounts for increases in the cost of living. From 2006 to 2023, the maximum insurance value available for service members and veterans remained static, lagging far behind inflation rates. This bill would strengthen the financial safety net for veterans, service members, and their families by requiring a report to the U.S. Veterans Affairs Department, the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs regarding cost-of-living increases and inflation rates every five years to ensure they don’t go years without assessing inflation rates.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-cruz-over-12-billion-in-bead-funding-to-texas-will-boost-connection,Sen. Cruz: Over $1.2 billion in BEAD Funding to Texas Will Boost Connection,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. – The Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced the approval of Texas’ proposal to use over $1.2 billion of funding to deliver universal high-speed internet access through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program.

Chairman Cruz’s oversight of the program under the Biden administration saved billions of taxpayer dollars, while ensuring states were not saddled with onerous mandates that prevented unserved communities from obtaining internet access.

Sen. Cruz said,“My work on the Commerce Committee to hold the BEAD program accountable has spared taxpayers from paying for internet to mansions and vacation islands while still securing over $1 billion in funding for Texas. By refocusing the program on its core mission of digital connection, instead of the Biden administration’s costly and burdensome regulation, we have freed states like Texas to responsibly use this money to expand internet access to rural communities.”

BACKGROUND:

This push for a refocused program, realized under the Trump administration, reduced regulatory burdens, drove down costs, and ensured all solutions were considered. The over $1.2 billion in BEAD funding for Texas will close the state’s connectivity gap, giving almost every location in the state on the Federal Communications Commission’s National Broadband Map to connect to high-speed internet for the first time. The funding is projected to connect almost 243,000 unserved and underserved homes and businesses across Texas. It will enable fiber connections for about 123,000 locations, low-earth orbit satellite service for approximately 66,000, and fixed wireless for about 54,000 sites.

In 2024, U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Ranking Member Ted Cruz (R-Texas) called on NTIA to pause the Biden administration’s unlawful BEAD activities. He argued that Biden’s NTIA’s renegade actions were saddling states with unnecessary mandates that were hindering efforts to expand internet access to unserved communities.

Cruz’s letter came in response to NTIA Administrator Alan Davidson’s admission that the Biden-Harris administration had spent $250 million in BEAD funding to hire government employees and contractors to administer a program that had failed to connect a single American to the internet. Cruz also published a 2023 report showing the program was wasting billions of dollars in duplicative subsidies and diverting funds away from truly unserved rural areas.

As incoming Chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee, Sen. Cruz committed to investigate the BEAD program, including NTIA’s extreme technology bias, imposition of rate regulation, union workforce and DEI requirements, climate change assessments, and other centralized planning directives.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-cruz-merkley-colleagues-send-letter-calling-for-pressure-on-china-to-release-zion-church-members,"Sens. Cruz, Merkley, Colleagues Send Letter Calling For Pressure on China to Release Zion Church Members",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) led a bipartisan letter urging U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to increase pressure on Chinese authorities to immediately release Pastor “Ezra” Jin Mingri and dozens of other Zion Church leaders who were wrongfully detained for their beliefs.

Excerpts and highlights from the letter:

“Pastor Jin, the 56-year-old founder and senior pastor of Beijing’s Zion Church, was detained on October 10, 2025, along with nearly thirty other church leaders, on allegations of ‘illegal dissemination of information online.

“Public reports indicate that formal indictments may soon follow, making this a critical moment for U.S. engagement on their cases. Strong and visible advocacy from the United States can help sustain international pressure, support efforts to secure their release, and show Chinese authorities that the world is watching. We urge you to seize this moment.

“The October 10 detentions represent the largest coordinated crackdown on an urban house church in four decades and underscore a troubling reality: the Chinese government is targeting people of faith simply for worshiping freely.

“We commend your statement in support of Pastor Jin and the other detained Zion Church leaders on October 12. We urge you to follow up that statement with continued diplomatic engagement, to press your PRC counterparts to release Pastor Jin and the other detained church leaders, and to make clear that the United States will continue to speak out for freedom of belief and worship.”

The letter is co-signed by Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Jim Justice (R-W.Va.).

Click here to read the full letter.

BACKGROUND

On October 10, 2025, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) conducted the largest coordinated, nationwide crackdown against a Christian urban house church in over four decades. At least 22 pastors and church members from Zion Church, one of China’s largest underground congregations, were arrested, including a prominent pastor and the founder of Zion Church, Pastor “Ezra” Jin Mingri.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-exempt-trafficking-survivors-restitution-from-federal-taxes-2/,"Cornyn, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Exempt Trafficking Survivors’ Restitution from Federal Taxes",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Ron Wyden (D-OR), James Lankford (R-OK) and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and U.S. Representatives Jodey Arrington (TX-19) and Brad Schneider (IL-10) today introduced the Human Trafficking Survivor Tax Relief Act, which would exempt civil damages, restitution, and other monetary awards given to human trafficking survivors from federal income taxes. It would also codify current Internal Revenue Service (IRS) guidance that makes restitution payments made to survivors in criminal cases free from federal income taxes:

“Texans who have been exploited, coerced, or forced into involuntary sexual acts or labor should not have to pay taxes on the payments awarded to them after enduring such a horrific crime,” said Sen. Cornyn. “Providing these survivors with tax-relief is one small step we can take to alleviate some of the burden on their journey to healing.”

“The survivors of human trafficking have been to hell and back, and the last thing they need as they rebuild their lives is a giant tax bill,” said Sen. Wyden. “Our legislation is about providing basic fairness for survivors of trafficking and ensuring that our tax code isn’t penalizing them for pursuing justice through what’s often the only means available.”

“Human trafficking survivors often face a long path to getting the closure and justice they deserve,” said Sen. Lankford. “As they heal, they shouldn’t be punished by the US tax code. This bill will support survivors by making sure that damages awarded, whether through civil or criminal cases, are exempt from federal income tax. This lets those who suffered at the hands of traffickers focus on recovery instead of bureaucracy.”

“Human trafficking is one of the most horrendous and inhumane things we continue to face in modern society,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “I am proud join this legislation to ease the lifelong financial burdens that so many of these victims face. Although money cannot return what has already been taken, it can usher in new opportunities for victims of these heinous crimes.”

“There is no amount of compensation that can remedy the many horrors that victims of human trafficking have to endure. As we work to eradicate this heinous crime, we should ensure these victims aren’t burdened with tax penalties and reporting requirements when they receive civil damages or restitution,” said Chairman Arrington. “The bipartisan Human Trafficking Survivor Tax Relief Act will solve this injustice and help survivors of modern-day slavery rebuild their lives.”

“We must do everything in our power to help survivors of human trafficking reclaim their lives,” said Rep. Schneider. “This is why I am proud to help lead the Human Trafficking Survivor Tax Relief Act, which would eliminate deferral income tax on restitution payments to human trafficking survivors and end the discrepancy that treats criminal and civil payments to trafficking survivors differently. No survivor should be burdened for seeking justice. Our compassion, and our action, must have no limits.”

Background:

Under the Internal Revenue Code, civil damages awarded to human trafficking victims are considered taxable income. This legislation would exempt civil damages from federal income taxes, allowing survivors to file their taxes without worry of penalties or fees for not reporting awarded damages as income. It also would provide parity between criminal restitution, which is tax-exempt through IRS Notice 2012-12, and civil damages, which are not. Often, human trafficking survivors’ only recourse to pursue justice against traffickers is through civil litigation. Finally, the bill codifies IRS Notice 2012-12, ensuring that restitution payments made in criminal case remain tax-free.

The Human Trafficking Survivor Tax Relief Act is endorsed by the Freedom Network USA and Rights4Girls.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-op-ed-antisemitisms-rise-is-intolerable/,Cornyn Op-Ed: Antisemitism’s Rise is Intolerable,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) authored the following op-ed in the Dallas Morning News condemning the dangerous rise of antisemitism on the right and calling for moral clarity within the conservative movement to defend the dignity of every person.

Antisemitism’s rise is intolerable

Senator John Cornyn

The Dallas Morning News

November 20, 2025

https://www.dallasnews.com/opinion/commentary/2025/11/23/cornyn-antisemitisms-rise-is-intolerable/

The United States of America was founded on universal principles, chief among them that we are all created equal with certain unalienable rights. This serves as the foundation for all of the other rights and freedoms we enjoy as Americans, including freedom of speech, freedom of religion, the protection of private property, and the rule of law. The recent resurgence of antisemitism, the world’s oldest form of hate, is an existential threat to the values that we hold dear. Judging a person by their race, ethnicity, or religion runs directly counter to what the founders of our country intended and undermines the very foundation of our constitutional republic.

Antisemitism is on the rise in our country. In the past year, four in 10 American Jews between the ages of 18 and 29 said they experienced antisemitism at least once. A recent FBI report determined there’s been a nearly 6% increase in religiously motivated incidents against Jewish Americans from 2023 to 2024. Furthermore, 70% of religiously motivated hate crimes last year were targeting Jews, who make up just 2% of the population. That is shocking and unacceptable.

Many of the most vivid examples of this dreadful phenomenon are on the political left. In the wake of Hamas’ unprovoked attack on Israel two years ago, college campuses have become hotbeds for hate, synagogues have become canvases for vandalism, and Jewish Americans have become targets for ridicule, prejudice, and physical harm. Of course, it is natural to feel sympathy towards the suffering of innocent Palestinians trapped in Israel’s war against Hamas, but we cannot forget that the responsibility rests with the terrorists themselves, who use Palestinians as human shields. Moreover, we cannot let our sympathy borne out of tragedy excuse racial or religious hate.

Support for the Jewish people and for Israel was once a bipartisan consensus, but as the left has increasingly turned its back on our Jewish friends, Republicans have taken on the mantle of defending Israel and the Jews against the rising tide of hatred. While these fringe ideas first began to find a home in the progressive left, there is an alarming emergence among self-styled conservatives as well.

In recent years, words like “white supremacist” and “neo-Nazi” have been thrown around carelessly, often as a caricature for anyone who disagrees with the Democrat Party dogma. But they describe Nick Fuentes, an influencer who has positioned himself as an alternative to mainstream conservatism, publicly praised Hitler, denied the Holocaust, and called a white nationalist rally “incredible.” Fuentes has also made vile racist comments about the vice president and his wife. It doesn’t take an expert in constitutional law to know these comments run afoul of the core principles for which conservatives, and Americans, stand. And, exercising the right to free speech that all Americans enjoy, we should denounce these heinous ideas for what they are: evil.

Some prominent voices in our conservative movement have shied from condemning the evil ideology that this young podcaster is promoting. Tucker Carlson hosted Fuentes on his show, giving him a broader platform to push his abhorrent views with minimal resistance. It is disappointing to see even storied institutions like the Heritage Foundation, which has long been a strong supporter of Israel and the Jewish people, waver in their condemnation of those who openly promote antisemitism and racism. Now is not the time to waver. Now is the time to speak the truth with clarity and conviction, and to condemn these un-American and anti-conservative ideas for what they are.

Our Jewish friends are facing increasingly hostile environments around the world, and sadly, now, in America as well. Many in the Democrat Party have remained silent or openly embraced those who profess antisemitism within their ranks. The Republicans cannot and will not do the same. There are times in politics that require moral clarity, and defending the inherent dignity of every human person is one of them.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/photo-cornyn-meets-with-texas-farm-bureau/,PHOTO: Cornyn Meets with Texas Farm Bureau,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) met yesterday with Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) President Russell Boening and TFB board members to discuss efforts to prevent the spread of New World screwworm (NWS) and the historic wins included in the One Big Beautiful Bill, now law, which will bolster the agriculture economy and ensure Texas farmers and ranchers are able to thrive. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) also stopped by to greet Texas farmers. See photo attached and below.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-backs-lawsuit-to-remove-illegal-voters-from-harris-county-voter-rolls/,Cornyn Backs Lawsuit to Remove Illegal Voters from Harris County Voter Rolls,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today released the following statement in support of Hotze v. Bennett, Steven Hotze’s lawsuit against Harris County for failing to remove tens of thousands of ineligible voters, including potential illegal immigrants, felons, non-residents of Harris County, and deceased individuals, from the voter rolls by the National Voter Registration Act’s 90-day deadline:

“Under the National Voter Registration Act, it is appropriate and necessary for jurisdictions to maintain the integrity of voter registration rolls. This includes removing ineligible voters and those who have left the area or passed away. The potential presence of illegal aliens is particularly concerning, as they should never have been added to the rolls in the first place,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I encourage swift consideration of this case and look forward to Houston rectifying these egregious errors and following our election laws.”

Background:

Under the National Voter Registration Act of 1993, states must remove ineligible names from voter rolls at least 90 days before the date of a federal election.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-chairs-hearing-on-the-radical-lefts-crusade-against-immigration-enforcement/,Cornyn Chairs Hearing on the Radical Left’s Crusade Against Immigration Enforcement,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today delivered the following opening remarks during the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Border Security and Immigration hearing he chaired entitled, “ICE Under Fire: The Radical Left’s Crusade Against Immigration Enforcement.” Excerpts are below, and video can be found here.

“President Biden invited millions of unvetted illegal aliens into the United States. These included hundreds of thousands of criminal aliens, violent gang members, and even individuals on the terror watch list.”

“Ever since President Trump was sworn into office and began prioritizing immigration enforcement, assaults and attacks on immigration agents and officers have skyrocketed.”

“DHS has reported that currently more than 415,000 illegal aliens in the United States already have criminal convictions – 415,000. Of that number, nearly 400,000 aren’t even detained.”

“The only reason that ICE and CBP must go out in our streets and seek out and arrest criminal aliens is because sanctuary cities simply refuse to cooperate with law enforcement.”

“The mainstream media, unfortunately, has shown no willingness to educate the public. Instead of reporting these realities truthfully, mainstream media outlets like CNN, MSNBC, and ABC have ignored the real harm that these criminal aliens have caused in these communities, and instead directed their ire toward law enforcement.”

“Some of our Democratic colleagues have used incendiary rhetoric to fan the flames of public protests that are anything but mostly peaceful. The result has been widespread assaults on our law enforcement officers.”

“Protesters have made violent threats against ICE officers, comparing them to fascists and Nazis, inciting more violence against immigration officers, who are again simply doing the job that Congress has asked them to do.”

“Why is the Radical Left so intent on protecting illegal aliens over U.S. citizens who are suffering the consequences of violent crime? To me, that is the most important question that remains unanswered.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-bolster-american-space-research-and-exploration/,"Cornyn, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Bolster American Space Research and Exploration",2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) today introduced the Space Research And Continuing Exploration (RACE) Act to bolster America’s space exploration and research capabilities through the creation of a National Institute for Space Research and ensure the nation is equipped to lead in the next space race. As the International Space Station (ISS) approaches retirement, there is an urgent need to ensure uninterrupted access to microgravity research capabilities that underpin advances in national defense, biotechnology, and space manufacturing.

“As our foreign adversaries continue to make advancements in space research and exploration, it is critical for America to have every tool and competitive advantage at our disposal to launch into the next space race,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation to create the National Institute for Space Research, which will help strengthen our nation’s research capabilities and bolster our influence in the global space economy.”

“We can’t let the International Space Station’s retirement leave a gap in American research in outer space,” said Sen. Hickenlooper. “The Space RACE Act ensures our scientific research and innovation activities secure new opportunities on space stations of the future.”

“American won the first Space Race, and we will win the second. The National Institute for Space Research would help accomplish that mission,” said Sen. Wicker. “By combining the talents of industry leaders, government officials, and academic researchers, the Institute would extend the capabilities of U.S. space technology.”

“From my time on the International Space Station, I saw how the research our astronauts conduct drives innovation here on Earth and strengthens America’s long-term competitiveness,” said Sen. Kelly. “As China and other countries expand their space programs, the United States can’t afford to lose ground. Our bipartisan bill makes sure that when the ISS reaches the end of its service, we continue the groundbreaking work it began and maintain America’s leadership in space.”

“As China rapidly expands its space capabilities, the United States must harness its competitive edge and world-class research ecosystem by lowering barriers to entry in space research and development to ensure our nation leads in the emerging space economy,” said Sen. Luján. “New Mexico plays a key role in driving the nation’s space innovation, and this legislation will build on the research and technological advancements happening in our state.”

Background:

Reports indicate that China is launching new modules to its Tiangong space station to meet growing demands for science and to boost international cooperation and is developing a new-generation crew spacecraft with two variants: one for low Earth orbit (LEO) and one for crewed lunar missions. China has been actively promoting international cooperation through Tiangong, offering countries like Oman, Egypt, Pakistan, and others opportunities to participate in space research largely for free or at an extremely low cost. China has also offered to train foreign astronauts, garnering interest from countries like Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and the UAE to train engineers, scientists, and mission operators for satellite development, and to launch services in which Egypt, Algeria, and Argentina are actively involved. This is a part of China’s broader Belt and Road Initiative, where space cooperation is bundled with tech transfer, loans, development projects, and the like.

This underscores strategic and accelerating investment by foreign adversaries in space-based infrastructure, research, and exploration. China’s ability to offer space-based partnerships to other nations allows it to build soft power and potentially shift international norms in space governance and tech standards.

In response, the Space RACE Act would:

Create a National Institute for Space Research, a federally controlled but independently operated entity designed to coordinate and advance U.S. microgravity research in LEO using next-generation space platforms after the retirement of the ISS;

Support public-private partnerships and economic development by bridging government and commercial sector interests;

And bolster America’s geopolitical influence, strategic positioning, and leadership in the emerging space economy around the world.

The National Institute for Space Research will enhance U.S. competitiveness in the emerging trillion-dollar space economy, support small businesses, and lower barriers to entry into space research and development.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-coons-bill-to-strengthen-state-departments-taiwan-strategy-passes-senate/,"Cornyn, Coons’ Bill to Strengthen State Department’s Taiwan Strategy Passes Senate",2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Chris Coons (D-DE) released the following statements after the Taiwan Assurance Implementation Act, which would require the U.S. Department of State to review and update its policy guidance regarding Taiwan no less than every five years and deliver a report to Congress within 90 days in light of the rapidly changing geopolitical landscape and threats of an invasion by China, passed the Senate and now heads to the President’s desk:

“The threat China poses to the stability of the Indo-Pacific, including our friend and ally Taiwan, is ever-evolving, and our diplomatic guidance must be able to keep up,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would help reinstate a strong Taiwan strategy at the State Department at a time when we need it most, and I’m glad it is now headed to President Trump’s desk for signature.”

“When I traveled to Taiwan earlier this year, I saw first-hand its importance for securing a free and open Indo-Pacific,” said Sen. Coons. “Congress has long supported strong United States-Taiwan relations. The Taiwan Assurance Act continues that tradition by supporting our shared values and reinforcing stability in the region, and I’m glad to see the Senate take up and pass this crucial bill.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-exposes-expanded-obamacare-subsidies-fraud-scheme/,Cornyn Exposes Expanded Obamacare Subsidies Fraud Scheme,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today in the Senate Finance Committee, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed with Dr. Brian Blase, President of Paragon Health Institute, the rising cost of health care and exposed the rampant fraud behind President Biden’s temporary COVID-era “enhanced” Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits, where wealthy insurance companies are profiting off subsidized coverage of unaware or ineligible Obamacare enrollees at taxpayers’ expense. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.

CORNYN: “I hear proponents of the status quo – these very expensive ACA subsidies – saying we should just keep using more tax dollars to subsidize insurance companies and not look at reforms of the current system.”

“The incredible enrichment of insurance companies – I’m not sure people really have figured this out. So, the money from the federal government goes to the insurance company, and are they incentivized to sign up as many people as they possibly can?”

BLASE: “Yes, Senator. The subsidies almost entirely are payments directly from the Treasury to the health insurance companies, and they have been the beneficiaries of a lot of this significant fraud and improper enrollment because they’re enrolling people that many times don’t know they’re covered by the plan, that don’t use the insurance at all.”

CORNYN: “Wait a minute – so somebody could be covered by an ACA policy and not even know it? How does that happen?”

BLASE: “When these subsidy enhancements were put in place, they made the coverage fully taxpayer-subsidized for a share of the population. That set in place sort of a massive set of fraud schemes throughout the country to manipulate applications, to give people the appearance that they could get a cash gift card.”

“There’s a Bloomberg story from June that quotes one of the customer service agents. It says half of the people that we enrolled had no idea that they were signing up for health insurance, and they don’t pay any premium, so they don’t see the payment. The subsidy just goes directly from the Treasury to the insurance company, and we’ve been automatically re-enrolling people year after year through this system.”

CORNYN: “What I hear my Democratic colleagues saying is we need to stay the course in this system, but who’s paying the premiums for those people who don’t even know they’ve been signed up on ACA?”

BLASE: “The taxpayer’s paying the full premium, and the ACA overall, now 85% of the revenue that insurers collect comes from the federal taxpayer.”

CORNYN: “Is the fact that 40% of the enrollees in fully subsidized plans did not file a single claim – is that also an additional data point or piece of evidence indicating that people have been signed up by these insurance companies and these headhunters, I’ll call them, who get paid a commission, presumably, for as many people as they can sign up as possible, that all of those people or many of those people did not even know that they were enrolled in a plan and taxpayers are subsidizing it?”

BLASE: “Yes, Senator… In the ACA, it’s becoming more the norm with all of these subsidies going to insurers, that people aren’t aware that they’re enrolled in the coverage.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-pfluger-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-safeguard-against-chinese-influence-in-u-s-defense-sector/,"Cornyn, Pfluger, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Safeguard Against Chinese Influence in U.S. Defense Sector",2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) along with Congressmen August Pfluger (TX-11) and Don Davis (NC-01) today introduced the Restricting Ex-Vetted Officials from Knowledge Exploitation (REVOKE) Act, which would require the U.S. Secretary of Defense to suspend and revoke security clearances for any retired or separated member of the Armed Forces or civilian employee of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) who lobbies on behalf of entities associated with the People’s Republic of China (PRC):

“China seizes any and every opportunity to undermine American interests and cannot be trusted,” said Sen. Cornyn.“Any former service member or DOD employee who exploits their access to American intelligence on our defense strategy and warfighting capabilities to behoove China and their own pocketbooks should unquestionably have their security clearance revoked and be held to account for such treachery.”

“Blacklisted Chinese military companies routinely hire former American officials turned lobbyists to curry favor for them in Washington,” said Sen. Whitehouse. “Congress should make it clear that lobbyists working for an adversary’s military should no longer have access to America’s national security secrets.”

“It is the bare minimum expectation that U.S. government employees work for the betterment of America, both during their service and long after it. Yet far too often, we see individuals leave government only to lobby on behalf of foreign adversaries who wish to see America fail,” said Rep. Pfluger. “This is a dangerous flaw in the incentive structure for those serving at the highest levels of government, and we must fix it to prevent foreign entities from gaining influence from within. By stripping security clearances from any former DOW personnel who lobby for China, this commonsense, bipartisan, bicameral bill moves us one step closer to ensuring that those in Washington are here to serve America, not undermine it.”

“We must stop U.S. federal employees from engaging in lobbying on behalf of adversarial foreign actors,” said Rep. Davis. “It is crucial to protect our political system from harmful foreign influence that could jeopardize national security, economic stability, and our democracy.”

Background:

Sen. Cornyn’s REVOKE Act would require the U.S. Secretary of Defense to suspend and revoke security clearances for any retired or separated member of the Armed Forces or civilian employee of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) who lobbies on behalf of an entity that is listed on the report required per Section 1260H of FY21 NDAA as a Chinese military company, or included in the Non-SDN Chinese Military-Industrial Complex Companies list published by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

This legislation was included in the House’s version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-cruz-announces-new-chief-counsel,Sen. Cruz Announces New Chief Counsel,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) announced a key promotion in his Washington, D.C. office.

KEN LEE promoted to Chief Counsel. A member of Senator Cruz’s team since May 2024, Ken previously served Senator Cruz as Senior Counsel. Originally from Hawaii, Ken is a proud graduate of the University of Southern California and a law school graduate of the University of Chicago Law School. Prior to his time in Senator Cruz’s office, Ken clerked for the Fifth Circuit and practiced law in private practice.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/turkey-trotting-for-a-cause/,Turkey Trotting for a Cause,2025-11-17,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"When Texans think of Turkey Trots, we often think of early risers who get up on Thanksgiving morning to run a couple of miles before the day’s main event: the big meal, which serves as an expression of our gratitude for all of God’s many blessings. But the pilgrims’ story isn’t the only tale to be told on Thanksgiving day. Turkey Trots have their own lore, and it’s one worth examining.

The first-ever Turkey Trot race took place in Buffalo, New York, in 1896. However, around the same time that Turkey Trot races were gaining popularity across the country, a different kind of Turkey Trot was beginning to grip the nation: a dance. It wasn’t a hit with everyone, which could be why the Turkey Trot race took a few decades to waddle its way into the Texas lexicon.

During the early 1900s, there was a rise in animal-inspired dances, including the Grizzly Bear and the Bunny Hug. These were very popular at the time but were not approved of by religious and government officials. The Turkey Trot was a specific dance that originated in 1909 on the West Coast and was known for being one of the most scandalous of its time by early 20th century standards. In 1910, there were bans on the dance across the U.S. because many people viewed it as inappropriate.

The Turkey Trot dance was frowned upon by so many that even President-elect Woodrow Wilson refused to have an inaugural ball in 1913, fearing that his guests would do the Turkey Trot, and instead threw a public reception at the Capitol. The Vatican even condemned the dance.

The controversy surrounding the dance didn’t stop the parallel rise in popularity of the Turkey Trot race, but it took a while for Turkey Trots in Texas to adopt the moniker and to be run by people instead of actual turkeys. In 1912, a South Texas town created a novel tradition: the running of the turkeys in Cuero. On November 25, 1912, Cuero held its first Turkey Trot with more than 20,000 turkeys running down the town’s streets to market. Turkey drivers – like cattle drivers, but for poultry – would come from all corners of the state to parade and sell their birds. The race drew in many spectators, including the then-Governor Oscar Branch Colquitt.

For years, Texans would flock to Cuero to view the parade of turkeys. Towns all over Texas tried to replicate Cuero’s event beginning in the 1920s, including Sherman and Brady. Sherman created its own version of the parade that included a banquet of turkeys, geese, and ducks. Brady started its own Turkey Trot festival, complete with floats, entertainment, and a feast to honor the King and Queen of Turkeydom.

In 1967, Dallas held the kind of Turkey Trot you and I are familiar with that was more focused on people doing the running than the fowl. The first-ever Texas Turkey Trot race was hosted by the Dallas YMCA 58 years ago with only 107 runners participating in a three-mile course. The following year, the race was held around White Rock Lake in East Dallas and was eight miles long. Just ten years later, the race was moved downtown due to its rise in popularity and space constraints. The number of participants has grown steadily over the years, with 2011’s trot having a record-setting total of 36,820 entries. This year’s proceeds will go to the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas to promote youth programs, wellness, and efforts to strengthen the North Texas community.

Dallas is not the only city in Texas that has a large Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. Houston, Austin, Plano, Irving, Fort Worth, and many more cities big and small throughout the Lone Star State host their own races as well. Many cities work with their local YMCAs, and others partner with charities to put on their Thanksgiving events.

It is important to remember that Turkey Trot races are not just about burning a few hundred calories before packing on the pounds at Thanksgiving dinner; they are about joining with others to better your community while having a little fun along the way. I’ve had the pleasure of participating in multiple races that have ranged from a half marathon to shorter courses benefitting great causes like children’s health, local parks, and financial literacy education. During these races, I’ve learned that the distance you run doesn’t matter. It’s the act of raising awareness and resources for others that counts.

Whether you are racing in a Turkey Trot this year or cheering on family and friends from the sidelines, may we all do so remembering the greater cause we are serving and the impact each race has on our neighbors here in Texas. Turkey Trots are not just about getting some exercise before our Thanksgiving meal or about which family member had the fastest time – they are about making a difference and giving back to our community.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-cruzs-service-academy-board-finalizes-texas-military-academy-recommendations,Sen. Cruz’s Service Academy Board Finalizes Texas Military Academy Recommendations,2025-11-17,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"AUSTIN, TEXAS- U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) celebrated the work of his Service Academy Nominations Board after it concluded its annual meeting. The Board recommended the most qualified Texas candidates for nomination to our nation’s distinguished military service academies.

Following the annual meeting, Sen. Cruz said, “Texas has long produced remarkable military leaders who embody service, courage, and commitment to our nation’s values. I am thankful for the tireless work of my Service Academy Nominations Board to ensure that only the most extraordinary young Texans, who will honor their state and country, are nominated to our military academies.”

Sen. Cruz’s 2025 Service Academy Nominations Board members include:

Judge / LTC (Ret.) Ernest Aliseda, USA - McAllen, TX

TAMU Corps Commander John Andruss – College Station, TX

CDR Nick Breedlove, USNR – Fort Worth, TX

Dr. James A. Broaddus – Austin, TX

MG (Ret.) Kendall Cox, USA – Harker Heights, TX

Mr. Stephen Dement – Tyler, TX

CDR (Ret.) Ben Fay, USN – Brock, TX

LTC (Ret.) Lisa Jaster, USAR – New Braunfels, TX

Lt Gen (Ret.) Frank Kisner, USAF – Midland, TX

Col (Ret.) Travis Koch – Houston, TX

Evangelist Tim Lee – Rowlett, TX

Master Chief (Ret.) Matthew J. May, USN – Katy, TX

SGT (Ret.) Cody McGregor, USA – Houston, TX

Capt Erin Naranjo, USAF – Round Rock, TX

Mrs. Mary Owen – Lubbock, TX

Capt Laurianne Rodriguez, USAF – New Braunfels, TX

Lt Col (Ret.) Cleve Rodriguez, USAF – New Braunfels, TX

Capt Judith Schanno, USAF – Boerne, TX

Justice / LTC (Ret.) Jaime E. Tijerina, USA – McAllen, TX

MSgt (Ret.) Allison Wilson, USAF – Schertz, TX

Col (Ret.) Brian “Rowdy” Yates, USAF – Abilene, TX

CDR (Ret.) Coburn “Cobi” Yearian, USN – Euless, TX

BACKGROUND

Sen. Cruz established the Board in 2013 to advise him on military service academy nominations. The Board is comprised of service academy alumni, members of the National Guard and Reserves, additional active duty and retired military leaders, former senior civilian U.S. Department of Defense officials, and other proud leaders and supporters of our military from across Texas. The Board assesses hundreds of military service academy applicants each year. The service academies will announce their admissions decisions early next year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-cruz-cornyn-and-rep-pfluger-urge-doj-dhs-to-prioritize-11b-reimbursement-to-texas-for-border-security-costs,"Sens. Cruz, Cornyn, and Rep. Pfluger Urge DOJ, DHS to Prioritize $11B Reimbursement to Texas for Border Security Costs",2025-11-17,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Congressman August Pfluger (R-Texas-11) led a letter with members of the Texas congressional delegation to the U.S. Departments of Justice (DOJ) and Homeland Security (DHS) urging them to prioritize the release of funds set aside in the One Big Beautiful Bill to reimburse the State of Texas for the more than $11 billion spent on border security efforts during the disastrous Biden-Harris border crisis.

Excerpts and highlights from the letter:

“President Trump’s signature legislative accomplishment, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, created two funds totaling $13.5 billion for the purpose of reimbursing states for stepping up when President Biden willfully refused to enforce our immigration laws at the border. The State of Texas bore the heaviest burden, incurring $11.1 billion in costs over four years. We respectfully request that the Departments prioritize Texas in disbursing these funds.

“In March 2021, Texas Governor Abbott launched Operation Lone Star to help secure the border when the federal government would not. Through this whole-of-government approach, the State of Texas built miles of border wall and buoy barriers and deployed personnel to maintain border infrastructure and apprehend illegal aliens, gang members, and other criminals.

“Texas’s actions through Operation Lone Star were absolutely vital to ensuring the safety and security of Americans across our great country. However, our State should not have had to bear alone the costs of securing the border when former President Biden intentionally failed to do so. We therefore respectfully ask that, as the Departments prepare to disburse the funds set aside in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the State of Texas be fully reimbursed for the costs incurred to protect Americans from illegal immigration and drug trafficking under former President Biden’s disastrous leadership.”

Click here to read the full letter.

Additional signatories include Representatives Pete Sessions (R-Texas-17), John Carter (R-Texas -31), Michael McCaul (R-Texas -10), Randy Weber (R-Texas -14), Roger Williams (R-Texas -25), Brian Babin (R-Texas-36), Jodey Arrington (R-Texas-19), Michael Cloud (R-Texas-27), Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas-02), Lance Gooden (R-Texas-05), Chip Roy (R-Texas-21), Pat Fallon (R-Texas-04), Tony Gonzales (R-Texas-23), Ronny Jackson (R-Texas-13), Tory Nehls (R-Texas-22), Beth Van Duyne (R-Texas-24), Jake Ellzey (R-Texas-06), Monica De La Cruz (R-Texas-15), Wesley Hunt (R-Texas-38), Morgan Luttrell (R-Texas-08), Nathaniel Moran (R-Texas-01), Keith Self (R-Texas-03), Brandon Gill (R-Texas-26), and Craig Goldman (R-Texas-12).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-cruz-pfluger-urge-doj-dhs-to-prioritize-11b-reimbursement-to-texas-for-border-security-costs/,"Cornyn, Cruz, Pfluger Urge DOJ, DHS to Prioritize $11B Reimbursement to Texas for Border Security Costs",2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) today led a letter with members of the Texas congressional delegation to the U.S. Departments of Justice (DOJ) and Homeland Security (DHS) urging them to prioritize the release of funds set aside in the One Big Beautiful Bill to reimburse the State of Texas for the more than $11 billion spent on border security efforts during the disastrous Biden-Harris border crisis. This comes after Sen. Cornyn spearheaded the push for $13.5 billion in border security reimbursement funding to be included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, now law.

The lawmakers wrote: “President Trump’s signature legislative accomplishment, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, created two funds totaling $13.5 billion for the purpose of reimbursing states for stepping up when President Biden willfully refused to enforce our immigration laws at the border. The State of Texas bore the heaviest burden, incurring $11.1 billion in costs over four years. We respectfully request that the Departments prioritize Texas in disbursing these funds.”

“In March 2021, Texas Governor Abbott launched Operation Lone Star to help secure the border when the federal government would not. Through this whole-of-government approach, the State of Texas built miles of border wall and buoy barriers and deployed personnel to maintain border infrastructure and apprehend illegal aliens, gang members, and other criminals,” they wrote.

“Texas’s actions through Operation Lone Star were absolutely vital to ensuring the safety and security of Americans across our great country. However, our State should not have had to bear alone the costs of securing the border when former President Biden intentionally failed to do so. We therefore respectfully ask that, as the Departments prepare to disburse the funds set aside in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the State of Texas be fully reimbursed for the costs incurred to protect Americans from illegal immigration and drug trafficking under former President Biden’s disastrous leadership,” the lawmakers concluded.

Text of the letter is available here and below. Additional signatories include Representatives Pete Sessions (TX-17), John Carter (TX-31), Michael McCaul (TX-10), Randy Weber (TX-14), Roger Williams (TX-25), Brian Babin (TX-36), Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Lance Gooden (TX-05), Chip Roy (TX-21), Pat Fallon (TX-04), Tony Gonzales (TX-23), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Tory Nehls (TX-22), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Jake Ellzey (TX-06), Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Morgan Luttrell (TX-08), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Keith Self (TX-03), Brandon Gill (TX-26), and Craig Goldman (TX-12).

November 14, 2025

The Honorable Pam Bondi

Attorney General

United States Department of Justice

950 Pennsylvania Avenue

Washington DC 20530-0001

The Honorable Kristi Noem

Secretary

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

2707 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE

Washington, DC 20528-0525

Dear Attorney General Bondi and Secretary Noem,

We are writing as members of the Texas congressional delegation to request that the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security (“the Departments”) reimburse the State of Texas for the costs it incurred to secure the border throughout the disastrous Biden-Harris Administration. President Trump’s signature legislative accomplishment, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, created two funds totaling $13.5 billion for the purpose of reimbursing states for stepping up when President Biden willfully refused to enforce our immigration laws at the border. The State of Texas bore the heaviest burden, incurring $11.1 billion in costs over four years. We respectfully request that the Departments prioritize Texas in disbursing these funds.

When President Biden came into office, he immediately reversed the successful policies that President Trump put into place during his first term to secure our borders against illegal immigrants. Within the first two months of the Biden Administration, monthly apprehensions of illegal aliens rose by nearly 100,000, eventually peaking at over 300,000 in December 2024. Because Border Patrol agents were occupied processing those illegal aliens they were able to apprehend, an estimated 1.7 million additional illegal aliens evaded apprehension and made their way into our communities. President Biden’s open-border policies imposed a substantial cost on communities in Texas, through increased fentanyl trafficking, crime, and even stress on local emergency response services.

In March 2021, Texas Governor Abbott launched Operation Lone Star to help secure the border when the federal government would not. Through this whole-of-government approach, the State of Texas built miles of border wall and buoy barriers and deployed personnel to maintain border infrastructure and apprehend illegal aliens, gang members, and other criminals. The State also undertook a substantial effort to prosecute these illegal aliens for the crimes they committed on U.S. soil.

Operation Lone Star was a huge success. According to the State’s most recent figures, Texas apprehended over 535,724 illegal aliens since its launch, and decreased illegal crossings into Texas by 87 percent. Additionally, the State seized over 779 million lethal doses of fentanyl, protecting not just Texans but all Americans against this deadly scourge. However, Operation Lone Star came at a substantial cost of approximately $11.1 billion between 2021 and January 2025.

Texas’s actions through Operation Lone Star were absolutely vital to ensuring the safety and security of Americans across our great country. However, our State should not have had to bear alone the costs of securing the border when former President Biden intentionally failed to do so. We therefore respectfully ask that, as the Departments prepare to disburse the funds set aside in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the State of Texas be fully reimbursed for the costs incurred to protect Americans from illegal immigration and drug trafficking under former President Biden’s disastrous leadership.

Sincerely,

/s/",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-bill-to-disrupt-pipeline-of-illicit-chinese-vapes-tobacco-products-passes-senate/,"Cornyn Bill to Disrupt Pipeline of Illicit Chinese Vapes, Tobacco Products Passes Senate",2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after provisions from his Ensuring the Necessary Destruction of (END) Illicit Chinese Tobacco Act, which would give the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authority to destroy adulterated, misbranded, or counterfeit imported tobacco products, such as vapes and e-cigarettes that are flooding the U.S. market from China, passed the Senate Monday night as part of the Senate’s government funding legislation:

“China is raking in the dough at the expense of American teens and young adults by lining U.S. shelves with illegal vapes and e-cigarettes,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would crack down on China’s counterfeit cash cow that’s corroding our nation’s health and extend the FDA’s destruction authority to these dangerous imported tobacco products.”

U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM) is a cosponsor of the legislation in the Senate, and Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne (TX-24) is leading companion legislation in the House.

Background:

China is responsible for the lion’s share of counterfeit or illicit tobacco products pouring into the United States. However, the FDA is currently hamstrung in its ability to address this growing threat. Earlier this year, the FDA announced it had seized illicit vaping products worth a total of $34 million, nearly all from China. The 2024 National Youth Survey found that seven out of ten e-vapor brands that youth most commonly use are illegal. Congress has previously given FDA destruction authority for certain illicit drugs and medical devices, but FDA has not yet received this same authority for tobacco products.

The END Illicit Chinese Tobacco Act would extend this authority to tobacco products so the FDA can better combat the influx of illicit vapes and e-cigarettes in the United States and address the national security and public health threat posed by China. It passed as part of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Related Agencies Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2026, which was included in the Senate’s legislative package to fund and reopen the federal government.

This legislation is endorsed by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, American Heart Association, American Lung Association, National Association of Truck Stop Owners, Society of Independent Gasoline Marketers of America, and the National Association of Convenience Stores.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-celebrates-senate-passage-of-new-world-screwworm-readiness-response-legislation/,"Cornyn Celebrates Senate Passage of New World Screwworm Readiness, Response Legislation",2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today released the following statement after his Stop the Screwworms With Active Readiness and Mitigation (SWARM) Act passed the Senate Monday night as part of the government funding legislation. This bill would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to present details to Congress on the domestic readiness and response initiatives that it both plans to implement and is already executing to combat the New World screwworm.

“Agriculture and cattle communities in Texas deserve the best protection possible from the destructive New World screwworm, which is why I’m proud my legislation to require the USDA to give Congress a detailed strategy on our nation’s screwworm readiness and response plans has passed the Senate,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This bill will ensure the United States has implemented necessary safeguards to combat this pest and ensure the proper resources are available to stop the swarm.”

Background:

The Stop the Screwworms With Active Readiness and Mitigation (SWARM) Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to submit a report to Congress within 30 days detailing the government’s preparedness for potential New World screwworm outbreaks in the United States. The report must cover domestic readiness plans, including building production facilities and state and/or industry partnerships, sterile fly production technology and other eradication methods, and analysis of the advantages and challenges of domestic versus international sterile fly production.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-sens-cruz-cornyn-applaud-president-trump-nomination-of-nicholas-ganjei-for-district-judge-for-the-southern-district-of-texas,"Sens. Cruz, Cornyn Applaud President Trump Nomination of Nicholas Ganjei for District Judge for the Southern District of Texas",2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas), members of the Senate Committee on the Judiciary, released the following statements after President Trump announced that he is nominating Nicholas Ganjei to be the District Judge for the Southern District of Texas.

Sen. Cruz said, “Nick served as my Chief Counsel for three years, during which he oversaw vital initiatives on criminal justice, border security, judicial nominations, antitrust issues, intellectual property, and religious liberty. He will be tireless in advancing President Trump’s agenda, judicial integrity, and conservative principles. I am proud of Nick, and this nomination by President Trump is a strong testament to Nick’s values, integrity, and professionalism.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-cruz-resolution-demanding-that-china-release-pastor-ezra-jin-and-other-leaders-of-zion-church,Senate Passes Cruz Resolution Demanding That China Release Pastor Ezra Jin and Other Leaders of Zion Church,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Chris Coons (D-Del.), members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and their colleagues issued statements following Senate passage of their bipartisan resolution condemning the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) for the abduction of Pastor Ezra Jin and other leaders of the Zion Church and calling for their release.

Sen. Cruz said, “Christians are fighting daily for their religious freedom against the Chinese Communist Party. Last month, the CCP carried out its largest nationwide crackdown in over four decades against a Christian house church in China. I’m grateful to Senator Coons and my colleagues for standing with me to demand Pastor Jin and his congregation’s release and to make clear that any government that fears faith is tyrannical.”

Sen. Coons said, “Everyone deserves the right to practice their religion freely without fear. I’m glad the Senate passed this bipartisan resolution to call for the Chinese government to release Pastor Jin, Ekpar Asat, and all political and religious prisoners.”

Sens. Cruz and Coons were joined by cosponsors Sens. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Jim Justice (R-W. Va.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.).

Sen. Capito said, “The Chinese Communist Party’s campaign of repression against Christians, including the targeting of churches such as the Zion Church, is a violation of fundamental religious freedom rights. I am glad to see the resolution condemning the CCP for abducting leaders of the Christian leaders, which I co-sponsored, has passed the Senate. This sends a clear message: faith is not a crime, and the United States condemns the recent alarming arrests of church leaders by CCP authorities.”

Sen. Shaheen said, “The Chinese Communist Party’s persecution of religious minority groups, including Christians, Muslims and Buddhists is a violation of basic human rights. The detention of Pastor Ezra Jin and leaders of the Zion Church are another chilling reminder of the Chinese Communist Party’s relentless campaign to silence religious minorities. I’m proud to join this bipartisan resolution demanding their release and reaffirming America’s commitment to promote religious freedom and tolerance.”

Sen. Grassley said, “The abduction of Pastor Ezra Jin and the ongoing religious persecution against Christians in China is a tragedy and a violation to individual rights and freedoms. I strongly condemn the Chinese Communist Party’s continued religious persecution of Christians, as well as believers of other faiths, and will continue to advocate for those being unfairly silenced. I’m pleased the Senate passed our resolution unanimously.”

Sen. Kaine said, “In 1786, the Virginia General Assembly passed a statute that created the foundation for religious freedom in America. Our example is a beacon to the world, and the freedom to practice your faith – including the right to not practice any faith at all – is a fundamental human right. In China, the state’s crackdown on the Zion Church is part of a broader pattern of the systematic suppression of any religious authority or group seen as independent of the state. I am proud that this bipartisan resolution passed the Senate, sending a strong message statement of support for human rights and religious freedom.”

Sen. Tim Scott said, “The Chinese Communist Party’s targeting of Pastor Jin and the Zion Church is an attack on the God-given right to live out one’s faith. I’m pleased the Senate passed this bipartisan resolution condemning China’s persecution of Christians and other religious minorities, and I call for the immediate release of all those arrested. The United States stands with the persecuted and is committed to defending religious freedom.”

Sen. Cassidy said, “Faith isn’t a crime. We need to call out China for once more targeting people of faith.”

Sen. Rick Scott said, “I’m proud to see the Senate’s passage of our resolution condemning the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) brutal persecution of people of faith. The CCP’s record of religious oppression, including the unjust arrest of Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri and members of the Zion Church, is evil and unacceptable. With this bipartisan action, America is making clear our commitment to defend religious freedom as a basic human right and to stand up for all who are persecuted for their faith. I’ll continue working with my colleagues to hold the CCP accountable and demand the release of Pastor Jin and all those imprisoned simply for worshipping God.”

Sen. Wicker said, “The United States has led the world in religious freedom, standing against tyrannical regimes like the People’s Republic of China. We must speak the truth about the regime’s evil crackdown on Christians and other religious groups. We will not stop advocating for those living under the thumb of Xi Jinping’s oppression.”

Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Rep. Andy Barr (R-Ky.-06).

Rep. Barr said, “China needs to release Pastor Jin and stop persecuting Christians for practicing their faith. Until then, Senator Cruz and I will keep rallying our House and Senate colleagues to condemn this atrocity and hold the Chinese Communist Party accountable.”

Read the resolution here.

BACKGROUND

On October 10, 2025, the Chinese Communist Party conducted the largest coordinated, nationwide crackdown against a Christian urban house church in over four decades. At least 22 pastors and church members from Zion Church, one of China’s largest underground congregations, were arrested, including a prominent pastor and the founder of Zion Church, Pastor “Ezra” Jin Mingri.

In March 2025, Senator Cruz introduced the Falun Gong Protection Act to combat the Chinese Communist Party’s state-sponsored organ harvesting and to safeguard the religious freedom and human rights of Falun Gong practitioners.

In 2024, Sen. Cruz introduced a resolution recognizing the 65th anniversary of the Tibetan Uprising to honor the struggle of the Tibetan people and the Dalai Lama for religious freedom and human rights.

In 2021, Sen. Cruz issued a statement following the advancement of two of his initiatives from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in the Strategic Competition Act to hold accountable Chinese officials who are responsible for the genocide of the Uyghurs and other minorities in Xinjiang.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-cruz-blackburn-hawley-scott-call-on-doj-to-release-arctic-frost-grand-jury-materials-on-republicans-phone-records,"Sens. Cruz, Blackburn, Hawley, Scott Call on DOJ to Release Arctic Frost Grand Jury Materials on Republicans’ Phone Records",2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Federal Courts, Oversight, Agency Action, and Federal Rights, along with Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), sent a letter requesting that U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi unseal the application for a non-disclosure order signed by Obama-appointed Judge James Boasberg, which required phone carriers to keep the Biden DOJ and Jack Smith’s subpoenas secret for one year.

Click here or the image above to watch Sen. Cruz’s remarks during a Senate Judiciary Committee press conference.

The letter follows Sen. Cruz’s call to impeach Judge Boasberg for his role in the Arctic Frost probe. Last week, Congressman Brandon Gill (R-TX-26) introduced articles of impeachment against Judge Boasberg in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Excerpts and highlights from the letter:

“The Stored Communications Act makes clear that the government… when seeking a non-disclosure order… must submit an application that sets forth the factual background showing reasonable grounds for the gag order. It is our understanding that this application is currently under seal in the Arctic Frost grand jury materials.

“We urge you to immediately move to unseal and provide this application that accompanied the gag order. Judge Boasberg’s order was a blatant abuse of power, and we must get to the bottom of how he arrived at the baseless conclusion that duly elected members of Congress would destroy evidence or intimidate witnesses.

“Jack Smith and the Biden DOJ spied on their political opponents, violated the Constitution, and weaponized the justice system to target members of Congress—all in an effort to go after President Trump. The American people deserve transparency about this egregious investigation and the full extent of the corruption of Jack Smith’s witch hunt.

“Unsealing this document is a critical step forward in our efforts to hold Jack Smith, Judge Boasberg, and all individuals who participated in this miscarriage of justice accountable. Thank you for your continued work to root out the two-tiered system of justice that existed for far too long under President Biden’s watch.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-cruz-rep-nehls-and-congressional-medal-of-honor-society-issue-statements-on-final-passage-of-medal-act,"Sen. Cruz, Rep. Nehls, and Congressional Medal of Honor Society Issue Statements on Final Passage of MEDAL Act",2025-11-11,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement about Senate passage of the House version of the Monetary Enhancement for Distinguished Active Legends (MEDAL) Act, legislation which he drafted and will now pass into law. The act was unanimously passed by the Senate had previously been passed unanimously by the U.S. House of Representatives It will increase the monthly pension for living Medal of Honor recipients to $67,500 annually.

Sen. Cruz said, “The Medal of Honor is our nation’s highest military honor, reserved for those who have distinguished themselves by incredible acts of valor that go above and beyond the call of duty. We have an obligation to ensure they have the support and resources they need. I’m proud that my colleagues in the House and Senate unanimously passed this legislation, affirming that obligation and ensuring that we mark the unwavering dedication of these men and women to our freedom and our country.”

Sen. Cruz spoke on the floor last week urging Senate passage of the MEDAL Act. Click here to watch that speech. During his remarks he recognized the nine Medal of Honor recipients currently living in the Lone Star State, as well as Lieutenant Colonel William Swenson and Colonel Paris Davis, who were in attendance for the speech and are pictured above.

The MEDAL Act is supported by the Congressional Medal of Honor Society (CMOHS).

Britt Slabinski, President of the CMOHS, said, “On behalf of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society (CMOHS), I want to thank Senator Cruz for his leadership and commitment in advancing the Medal of Honor Act through the Senate. We are equally grateful to Representative Troy Nehls for his vision in originating this effort in the House and for the bipartisan resolve that made its passage possible – a reflection of shared respect for those who serve that rises above politics. This law honors the individuals who carry our nation’s highest recognition for valor in combat not through comfort, but through purpose. It strengthens our capacity, as Recipients, to continue serving our country and to uphold the Medal’s values of courage, sacrifice, and service beyond self, ensuring that the spirit of duty our nation depends on endures.”

The legislation was introduced in the House by Rep. Troy Nehls (R-Texas-22).

Rep. Nehls said, “The United States Senate did good by our nation’s highest decorated Veterans by passing my bill, the Medal of Honor Act, by unanimous consent,” said Congressman Nehls. “Medal of Honor recipients don’t ask for recognition or demand special treatment. They are selfless heroes who embody the best of our country. The least Congress can do is ease the financial burdens of these heroes by raising their well-deserved annual pension. Thank you to my Texas Republican colleague, Senator Ted Cruz, for championing this initiative in the Senate. I look forward to seeing this bill signed into law by President Trump.”

Read the Medal of Honor Act here.

BACKGROUND

The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration bestowed by the United States. There are only 61 living Medal of Honor recipients.

Medal of Honor recipients are often not retired from the U.S. military and often receive no compensation for the costs of their public engagements. Through these appearances, they share stories of heroism that inspire Americans, strengthen national pride, and support military recruiting and retention. Increasing their monthly pensions is essential to easing the financial burden on their families and ensuring they can continue representing the best of our nation’s values.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-statement-on-senate-vote-to-finally-end-the-schumer-shutdown/,Cornyn Statement on Senate Vote to Finally End the Schumer Shutdown,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after the Senate voted to end the Schumer Shutdown after more than 40 days of Senate Democrats repeatedly refusing to vote in favor of reopening the federal government:

“The Schumer Shutdown will go down as the longest and dumbest government shutdown in history.”

“After more than 40 days of uncertainty for our troops, federal workers, Texas families who rely on SNAP, and countless others, Senate Democrats have relented after accomplishing nothing but hurting millions of Americans.”

“I am proud to have voted more than 15 times to reopen the government, and I look forward to President Trump signing government funding into law so the Senate can turn to pressing legislation like the annual defense authorization bill instead of wasting time on Chuck Schumer’s desperate attempt to save his political career.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-cruz-hyde-smith-capito-introduce-bill-to-restore-trust-in-the-usps,"Sens. Cruz, Hyde-Smith, Capito Introduce Bill to Restore Trust in the USPS",2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.) introduced the Upholding a Secure Postal System (USPS) Act to direct the U.S. Comptroller General to submit a report to Congress on nationwide mail theft trends and the security of postal property.

Sen. Cruz said, “Mail theft has become a growing concern for Texans who depend on a reliable postal service. I am committed to restoring trust in the USPS by addressing the widespread theft of mail, and this bill will bring us one step closer to achieving that goal.”

Sen. Hyde-Smith said, “We must get a better handle on protecting our postal system from shameless porch pirates and the brazen thieves who target USPS drop boxes. This legislation will force the Postal Service to truly assess losses and threats to the sanctity of our postal system, while also giving Congress a clearer path forward to combat this growing problem.”

Sen. Capito said, “The U.S. Postal Service plays a central role in many Americans’ day-to-day lives. In recent years however, I’ve heard from countless West Virginians frustrated by delays and widespread mail theft. I am proud to help introduce the Upholding a Secure Postal System (USPS) Act to help address this issue and increase accountability at the Postal Service.”

Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Rep. Randy Weber (R-Texas-14).

Rep. Weber said, “Postal theft is a persistent problem nationwide. The Houston area, my district, and I myself have personally fallen victim to this frustrating crime. For far too long, criminals have seen the USPS as a soft target to steal from everyday Americans. Sometimes, it’s even an inside job. It is imperative that the public be able to rely on this age-old institution to pay bills, receive medication, and get other essential items on time. With President Trump cleaning up the federal government, the USPS is no exception. Our bill will require the USPS to submit reports to Congress on nationwide trends of postal theft and steps they are taking to prevent communities from being plagued by this crime. We will keep pressing for transparency and results, especially for Texas’ 14th District, and to ensure the USPS finally delivers for the American people again.”

Read the bill text here.

BACKGROUND

The report would be submitted annually for five years to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and would detail the measures the Postal Service has taken to combat mail theft.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-van-duyne-introduce-bill-to-disrupt-pipeline-of-illicit-chinese-vapes-tobacco-products/,"Cornyn, Van Duyne Introduce Bill to Disrupt Pipeline of Illicit Chinese Vapes, Tobacco Products",2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne (TX-24) introduced the Ensuring the Necessary Destruction of (END) Illicit Chinese Tobacco Act, which would give the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authority to destroy adulterated, misbranded, or counterfeit imported tobacco products, such as vapes and e-cigarettes, that are flooding the U.S. market from China:

“The vaping epidemic that has plagued American youth is made all the more concerning by China’s outsized role in flooding U.S. markets with counterfeit tobacco products,” said Sen. Cornyn. “By giving the FDA destruction authority over these imports, this legislation would turn off the spigot of illicit e-cigarettes and vapes flowing from China and address the public health crisis sweeping across our nation.”

“We have seen too many illegal vapes slipping through the enforcement cracks, posing health and safety risks to Americans,” said Rep. Van Duyne. “These dangerous and counterfeit products have been flooding into our country from places like China. The END Act will give federal agencies the tools that they need to destroy these counterfeit or misbranded goods before they reach our shelves.”

U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM) is a cosponsor of the legislation in the Senate.

Background:

China is responsible for the lion’s share of counterfeit or illicit tobacco products pouring into the United States. However, the FDA is currently hamstrung in its ability to address this growing threat. Earlier this year, the FDA announced it had seized illicit vaping products worth a total of $34 million, nearly all from China. The 2024 National Youth Survey found that seven out of ten e-vapor brands that youth most commonly use are illegal. Congress has previously given FDA destruction authority for certain illicit drugs and medical devices, but FDA has not yet received this same authority for tobacco products.

The END Illicit Chinese Tobacco Act would extend this authority to tobacco products so the FDA can better combat the influx of illicit vapes and e-cigarettes in the United States and address the national security and public health threat posed by China.

This legislation is endorsed by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, the American Heart Association, the American Lung Association, National Association of Truck Stop Owners, Society of Independent Gasoline Marketers of America, and the National Association of Convenience Stores.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z