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.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/president-signs-lummis-mullin-bill-to-designate-the-bald-eagle-as-the-national-bird/,"President Signs Lummis, Mullin Bill to Designate the Bald Eagle as the National Bird",2024-12-27,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, President Joe Biden signed legislation introduced by Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) to designate the bald eagle as the National Bird of the United States. “The bald eagle is an enduring symbol of American freedom and values, and I am thrilled it is finally getting the recognition it deserves as our official national bird,” said Lummis. “The bald eagle has long been a symbol of freedom and patriotism for our nation,”said Mullin. “It’s only fitting we officially designate the bald eagle the national bird of the United States. I’m happy to see this signed into law by the president and was happy to work in a bipartisan fashion to get it to his desk.” Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (both D-MN) cosponsored the legislation. Reps. Brad Finstad (R-MN), Angie Craig (D-MN), Dean Phillips (D-MN), Tom Emmer (R-MN), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Dan Newhouse (R-WA), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), and Don Beyer (D-VA) introduced the House companion bill. The bald eagle has proudly been depicted as the national symbol of the United States since June 20, 1782, when our country’s Founding Fathers at the Second Continental Congress approved the Great Seal of the United States. Since that time, the bald eagle has appeared on official documents, currency, flags, public buildings, sports teams and other government-related items. Today, the bald eagle is synonymous with American life and this legislation will officially designate it as the National Bird of the United States. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-statement-on-passing-of-jinx-clark/,Barrasso Statement on Passing of Jinx Clark,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"Sen. Barrasso and Jinx Clark on the Speaker’s Balcony of the U.S. Capitol Building. CASPER, WY – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) released the following statement regarding the loss of his former state staff director and current top aide, Jinx Clark. Jinx, a U.S. Navy veteran, passed away this past weekend. “Wyoming and the Congressional delegation lost a wonderful mentor, colleague, and friend. Jinx was truly dedicated to serving others. She has been by my side in Wyoming since the day I started in the U.S. Senate. Both as a leader and guidepost, she helped ensure we stayed on track and achieved our mission. “While she radiated kindness, Jinx was tough as nails. Her experience serving our country as an officer in the U.S. Navy trained her to face any problems and obstacles head-on. Jinx could always be trusted to get the job done and do it well. “Jinx helped so many people across our state – whether it was through her work in the Senate or her beloved church community. We are all better off today for having Jinx in our lives. I’m beyond grateful I was able to serve Wyoming alongside her for so many years. My prayers are with her sister Kim, brother Bill, and her entire extended family.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-fights-to-address-water-scarcity-and-shore-up-drought-preparedness-measures/,Lummis Fights to Address Water Scarcity and Shore Up Drought Preparedness Measures,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— This week, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis’ (R-WY) legislation to shore up drought preparedness measures and address water scarcity in Wyoming and the west passed the Senate. Lummis headed to the Senate floor to urgently seek support for the bipartisan Water Data Improvement Act and the Drought Preparedness Act, and the bills were passed by unanimous consent. They now head to the president’s desk to be signed into law. “The west’s ability to continue leading our nation in cutting-edge water conservation and management hinges on preserving proven policies that mitigate drought threats,” said Lummis. “We must act urgently to ensure our state, local and Tribal governments are adequately prepared to deal with droughts and shore up our water infrastructure across Wyoming and western states.” The Water Data Improvement Act would: Support the National Groundwater Resources Monitoring Network, which promotes collaborative groundwater monitoring between federal, state, and local programs, by reauthorizing the program at $4 million annually. Reauthorize the National Streamflow Information Program at $10 million annually to help monitor water levels. Improve water estimation and monitoring technologies by reauthorizing the grant programs for agencies, academic institutions and private entities to develop and implement new methodologies and technologies. Improve collaboration between the Department of Interior (DOI) and other federal and state agencies to streamline and centralize water data collection systems and water supply forecasting techniques. The Drought Preparedness Act would: Reauthorize the Reclamation States Emergency Drought Relief Act through 2028. Continue authorities for DOI to prepare drought contingency plans and provide technical assistance to State, local, and Tribal governments on their drought contingency plans. Maintain authorities for DOI loans to water users for drought mitigation projects. Support emergency response actions to minimize damages from drought.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-meets-with-fbi-director-nominee-kash-patel/,Lummis Meets with FBI Director Nominee Kash Patel,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) released the following statement after meeting with President Donald Trump’s FBI Director Nominee, Kash Patel. “Kash Patel is an accomplished lawyer, seasoned former public defender and trusted advisor who has dedicated his career to exposing corruption and standing up for the American people,” said Lummis. “Under his leadership, the FBI will end America’s out of control crime epidemic and punish migrant gangs taking advantage of the Biden administration’s open borders. President Trump has made it his mission to stamp out corruption within the FBI, and Kash is a great choice to restore the FBI to its intended mission of protecting the American people rather than targeting political opponents.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-meets-with-secretary-of-defense-nominee-pete-hegseth/,Lummis Meets with Secretary of Defense Nominee Pete Hegseth,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— Today, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) released the following statement after meeting with President Donald Trump’s Secretary of Defense nominee, Pete Hegseth. “For years, the Biden administration has made our nation look weak on the world stage, emboldening our enemies and pushing radical military policies,” said Lummis. “Pete Hegseth’s extensive service to our nation makes him uniquely qualified to serve as Defense Secretary, and I am confident he will revoke the woke policies that have infiltrated the military and restore our fighting forces. We need to build a U.S. military Americans can be proud of, and Pete Hegseth will be the one to do it.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-on-passage-of-the-national-defense-authorization-act/,Barrasso on Passage of the National Defense Authorization Act,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) issued the following statement after voting to pass the FY 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). “America needs a strong military to defend our nation at home and abroad. As we face increasing threats from our adversaries, we need to make sure our military has top-of-the-line resources,” said Senator Barrasso. “This year’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) eliminates woke Pentagon policies and prioritizes military readiness and modernization. It gives our troops a significant and much-deserved pay raise. It also includes funding for critical projects at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne. Signing this bill into law as soon as possible will make sure our servicemen and women have the resources they need to protect all Americans and our freedoms.” This year’s NDAA authorizes funding to support a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers (E1-E4) and a 4.5% pay raise for all other military members. It also includes Senator Barrasso’s legislation with U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) to ensure the Air Force maintains at least 271 total C-130 aircraft. The NDAA includes funding for the much-needed Rip and Replace program at the Federal Communications Commission. This program will enhance security in our networks by removing banned Chinese telecommunications equipment in Wyoming and across the country. Barrasso was also successful in securing critical funding and provisions for Wyoming’s F.E. Warren Air Force Base. Key Wyoming Provisions Included in the NDAA:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-secures-funding-for-rip-and-replace-to-protect-the-people-of-wyomings-privacy/,Lummis Secures Funding for Rip and Replace to Protect the People of Wyoming’s Privacy,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— Today, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) announced she secured key funding for Rip and Replace in the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2024. Rip and Replace funding is integral to our national security because it will remove dangerous Chinese components from our wireless communications systems and replace them with safe and secure equipment. Without this funding, Wyoming communities could lose their access to telecommunications services. “Chinese-manufactured equipment used to build out our broadband networks pose a serious threat to our national security and the privacy of the people of Wyoming,” said Lummis. “The NDAA fully funds Rip and Replace, ensuring small wireless and broadband carriers throughout Wyoming will not be saddled with millions of dollars in costs that could result in service blackouts and companies closing down. Poor connectivity continues to be one of Wyoming’s biggest challenges and now more than ever, we have the ability to not only ensure even the most rural corners of the Cowboy State have reliable broadband access but also protect this critical resource from foreign adversaries.” Lummis has been a strong proponent of funding Rip and Replace due to the dangerous risk to Wyoming communities of service being cut entirely due to the high costs to fund these projects. Earlier this year, she introduced an amendment to the appropriations bill to fully fund Rip and Replace and ensure Wyoming communities continue having access to reliable broadband and wireless services. She also spoke at a Senate Commerce Committee hearing about the threats Chinese-manufactured equipment in our broadband and wireless networks pose to our communities and the urgent need for Congress to fund Rip and Replace. In February 2023, Lummis penned an op-ed in the Hill expressing her serious concerns over the Chinese Communist Party’s ability to spy on the people of Wyoming through the equipment used to build out broadband and wireless networks in the state and the urgent need for Rip and Replace to be fully funded. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-mullin-bipartisan-bill-to-designate-the-bald-eagle-as-national-bird-heads-to-the-presidents-desk/,"Lummis, Mullin Bipartisan Bill to Designate the Bald Eagle as National Bird Heads to the President’s Desk",2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) announced their bipartisan legislation to designate the bald eagle as the National Bird of the United States passed the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate. It is now heading to the President’s desk to be signed into law. “I am thrilled our bipartisan bill just passed the House,” said Lummis. “The bald eagle is an enduring symbol of American freedom and values, and thanks to bipartisan support, we are one step closer to officially designating the bald eagle as our national bird.” “The bald eagle has long been a symbol of freedom and patriotism for our nation,” said Sen. Mullin. “It’s only fitting we officially designate the bald eagle the national bird of the United States. I was glad to join my colleagues in leading this bipartisan effort and appreciate the House’s swift consideration.” Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (both D-MN) cosponsored the legislation. Reps. Brad Finstad (R-MN), Angie Craig (D-MN), Dean Phillips (D-MN), Tom Emmer (R-MN), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Dan Newhouse (R-WA), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), and Don Beyer (D-VA) introduced the House companion bill. The bald eagle has proudly been depicted as the national symbol of the United States since June 20, 1782, when our country’s Founding Fathers at the Second Continental Congress approved the Great Seal of the United States. Since that time, the bald eagle has appeared on official documents, currency, flags, public buildings, sports teams and other government-related items. Today, the bald eagle is synonymous with American life and this legislation will officially designate it as the National Bird of the United States. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-names-rock-springs-native-brad-bunning-as-new-chief-of-staff/,Barrasso Names Rock Springs Native Brad Bunning as New Chief of Staff,2024-12-13,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo) named longtime policy advisor and Wyoming native Brad Bunning as his Chief of Staff. Bunning will take the reins from Barrasso’s former Chief of Staff and Laramie native Dan Kunsman. Barrasso recently named Kunsman Staff Director for the Office of the Senate Republican Whip. Barrasso praised Bunning’s experience to lead staff and serve the people of Wyoming well. “Brad has been with me from day one. He’s spent his entire career helping people across Wyoming and beyond,” said Barrasso. “Brad’s extensive policy experience and deep knowledge of our state make him an outstanding choice to lead my office as Chief of Staff.” Bunning, who grew up in Rock Springs, has served in the U.S. Senate for more than 20 years. His career started in 2001 with an internship for U.S. Senator Craig Thomas (R-Wyo.). He quickly rose through the ranks serving in a variety of roles including as systems administrator, telecom policy aide, legislative assistant, senior policy advisor and senior professional staff member at the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Bunning was instrumental in shaping nuclear fuel policy and reviving uranium production in Wyoming and across America. He led the effort to introduce and pass legislation prohibiting Russian uranium imports and securing the future of American nuclear fuel production. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-newhouse-slam-biden-administrations-eleventh-hour-attempt-to-appease-climate-extremists/,"Lummis, Newhouse Slam Biden Administration’s Eleventh Hour Attempt to Appease Climate Extremists",2024-12-13,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Congressional Western Caucus Chair Dan Newhouse (R-WA) slammed the Biden administration’s last ditch attempts to appease climate activists by listing the monarch butterfly as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act, senselessly hogtying landowners with restrictive regulations to score some final political points. “The Endangered Species Act is in dire need of reform, and this listing by the Fish and Wildlife Service only further drives home this point,” said Lummis. “As Republicans prepare to control the Senate, House, and White House next year, I look forward to prioritizing legislative and administrative reforms that will protect species without hindering economic development.” “This announcement by the Fish and Wildlife Service to list the monarch butterfly as threatened highlights the need for comprehensive reform to the Endangered Species Act,” said Newhouse. “For far too long, the ESA has been used to stifle development while encroaching on the rights of private landowners. The Western Caucus will continue to prioritize reforms to the ESA, including the ESA Amendments Act, to make the law work better for species, landowners and rural communities alike.” Monarch butterfly populations are found across the contiguous U.S., including Wyoming. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-repeal-the-biden-car-bribe/,Barrasso: Repeal the Biden Car Bribe,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"“Taxpayers should not be forced to pay for the cost of luxury vehicles. It is wrong for tax dollars from working families to subsidize the car purchases of wealthy elites. Americans refuse to be force-fed electric vehicles.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) spoke on the Senate floor today calling for the repeal of Democrats’ $7,500 electric vehicle handout. The Democrats’ EV subsidies are a bribe to push their unpopular climate agenda, killing American jobs and abusing taxpayer funds. Repealing this subsidy will put Americans back in the driver’s seat. Sen Barrasso’s remarks: “The new Senate Republican Majority begins January 3, 2025. So, our day one starts in three weeks. Republicans will enter the next Congress with a long ‘Fix It’ list on behalf of the American people. “At the top of that list is an agenda that lowers costs and restores American energy dominance. “Prices today we know, are 20 percent higher than they were 4 years ago. And just this morning, we learned once again that prices have gone up in November. “And we know the culprits – the problem behind the high prices: Wasteful Washington Spending. And we’ve seen a lot of it the last four years. The other reason, of course, is the Democrats’ throttling American energy production. “Republicans are going to fix the fiscal insanity of the past four years. We’ll put Americans – not Washington bureaucrats – back into the driver’s seat. “We’re going to start by repealing the ‘Biden Car Bribe’. This is something President Trump strongly supports, and he is supporting what we are promoting. He’s asked for it. He’s campaigned on it. “Eliminating this car bribe by the Biden administration, it is one of the most wasteful policies that we’ve seen from this administration in the last four years. It is Democrats’ $7,500 subsidy for people buying electric vehicles. It was included in their reckless tax-and-spend legislation. It received zero – zero – Republican votes. Not a one. “It is an attempt by the Democrats to bribe the American people to go along with their unpopular climate fantasy. It is a welfare check for wealthy elites and for green corporations. It’s a giveaway to Communist China, which controls key parts of the EV supply chain. “We were initially told by the Joint Committee on Taxation that these subsidies would cost about $14 billion. Well, the price tag has continued to tick up since then. “Today, there have been some revised estimates, and they have ballooned to projected costs of way over $300 billion. That’s right over $393 billion. That’s for vehicles that most Americans don’t want, can’t afford, and don’t work for them or their families. “The auto dealers in Wyoming tell me it takes much, much longer to try to sell these things compared to the traditional gas-powered vehicles. They say they can’t even sell them at a loss. They’re stuck piling up on the lots. “Less than 10 percent of new car sales in America last year were EVs. The sale figures have been abysmal. EVs lost market share – hard to believe – actually lost market share in 2024. “So you have these carmakers from around the country who are now hemorrhaging cash, losing tons of money. And we have auto workers who have lost their jobs. “The CEO of Ford says his company is projected to lose $5 billion this year on their EV market. “Stellantis, which owns Chrysler, is also in the ditch. In August, it announced plans to lay off thousands of auto workers at its plants in Michigan. “Yet last week, it won a $7.54 billion loan, an additional loan from the Biden administration, over $7.5 billion for something that’s failing. Joe Biden is leaving the White House the same way he led it – by doubling down on failure. “America now has fewer manufacturing jobs today than it did last year. “And do you want to know the dirtiest Democrat secrets in terms of this ‘Biden Car Bribe’? It sends taxpayer money to Communist China. “But the original law was clear. It said, if your EV was made with Chinese batteries or used their critical minerals, it would then be ineligible – not eligible – for taxpayer-funded subsidies. China batteries, China components – can’t get any of the subsidy benefits. “Joe Manchin, he actually wrote that provision into that bill. Republicans still voted against the entire bill. We thought it was a waste of taxpayer dollars. Joe Biden signed it, and then EV sales stalled out. “So what did Democrats do? They doubled down. They could have made it easier to mine more critical minerals in America, use our own supply chain. But, no, President Biden decided to overrule the China ban. “His own Department of Treasury came out with lax rules on sourcing materials, meaning that China, Communist China, will benefit from American tax dollars. It also means that American workers will pay a higher price for policy and for vehicles they don’t want. “We need to go back to a consumer-driven, free-enterprise system. “This is the United States of America. We should never be dependent on dictators and despots – like those we have in Communist China. “Electric vehicles make sense for some people, but they’re not an option for all people. Consumers have legitimate anxiety about the range of these vehicles, about costly repairs, and about extremely expensive insurance because often a minor ding on one of these electric vehicles with the damage done. Well, they will call it a total and complete loss of the vehicle. That’s why the insurance is much higher on electric vehicles than traditional vehicles “If EVs were better options, then government wouldn’t need to bribe Americans all across the country to buy them, or to bribe businesses to build them. “Electric vehicles are a luxury item. They are toys with severe limitations. They are not must-have means of transportation. “Taxpayers shouldn’t be forced to pay for the cost of luxury vehicles. It’s wrong for taxpayers and tax dollars from working families to subsidize the car purchases of wealthy elites. “The American people have proven to refuse to be force-fed these electric vehicles. Can’t be pushed into buying them, can’t be bribed into buying them. ‘No thank you,’ said the American consumer. “But that’s exactly what the Democrats have been trying to do – to ban traditional vehicles and to bribe people to buy electric vehicles. “Democrats want to pick what you can drive and want to punish anyone who doesn’t want to do it. All as a result of their smug moral superiority. “Well, I have a message for my colleagues. It is the same message that Americans sent in November. When taxpayers and voters went to the polls, they said government, big government, Democrat government does not know better than We the People. “Senate Democrats don’t know better than We the People. We the People have a right to decide what is best for us and what’s best for our families. “The incoming Trump administration and the Republican Senate Majority will get rid of the ‘Biden Car Bribe’ and the ‘Biden Car Ban’. “We will embrace free enterprise and fiscal responsibility. We will lower prices for American families and restore American independence and dominance. We will strengthen our manufacturing and bring back good paying jobs. “We will put Americans back in the driver’s seat.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-joins-doge-caucus-to-hold-unelected-bureaucrats-accountable-reduce-size-of-federal-government/,"Lummis Joins DOGE Caucus to Hold Unelected Bureaucrats Accountable, Reduce Size of Federal Government",2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) announced she will join the Delivering Outstanding Government Efficiency Caucus, chaired by U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), to rein in the federal government’s wasteful spending and hold unelected bureaucrats accountable to the American people. “For four years, the people of Wyoming have watched as the Biden-Harris administration has enabled unelected bureaucrats to become untouchable and unaccountable to the people they serve, but on January 20, 2025, that will come to a screeching halt,” said Lummis. “We have a responsibility to cut wasteful spending, restore transparency, eliminate fraud and abuse within the federal government and give power back to the American people. The DOGE Caucus will play an integral role in sniffing out government waste, and I look forward to partnering with my colleagues and President Trump to rein in Biden’s Big Government.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-newhouse-slam-biden-harris-blms-out-of-touch-greater-sage-grouse-plan/,"Lummis, Newhouse Slam Biden-Harris BLM’s Out of Touch Greater Sage Grouse Plan",2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Congressional Western Caucus Chair Dan Newhouse (R-WA) wrote a letter to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Director Tracy Stone-Manning expressing their concerns with its final Greater Sage-Grouse Resource Management Plan Amendment (RMPA). “While the Biden-Harris administration spends its final days catering to its radical climate change base, farmers, ranchers and landowners across the west will bear the consequences of its catastrophic failures for years to come,” said Lummis. “Instead of trusting Wyoming’s experts who have a proven track record on sage-grouse management, this administration continues grasping for control of the west by awarding decision-making power to unelected D.C. bureaucrats who do not know the first thing about western land management. Rep. Newhouse and I are calling on the BLM to immediately cease any work on the RMPA in this lame duck period to spare the west from a few more weeks of this administration’s Green New Deal policies.” “BLM’s sage-grouse proposal implements an unworkable one-size-fits-all approach to population management that will fail landowners across the west,” said Newhouse. “I’m proud to join Senator Lummis in requesting the agency return control to state and local officials who best know how to manage populations. This is clearly a last-ditch effort by a lame duck administration to inflict further harm on the American West, and I look forward to supporting the repeal of this regulation in the new Congress.” This plan will affect sage-grouse habitats in Wyoming, California, Nevada, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, Colorado, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota. In March, Lummis and Newhouse urged the BLM to extend the comment period on this sage-grouse plan in order for those who live and work on the lands affected by the proposal to have ample time to provide public comment. In October 2023, Senate Western Caucus member Jim Risch (R-ID) led a letter to Senate leadership to keep the greater sage-grouse off the endangered species list and for states to continue species management. In July 2023, Lummis led a letter to the Senate Appropriations Committee Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related Agencies urging the committee to continue prohibiting the listing of the greater sage-grouse.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-presses-for-urgent-action-on-ndaa/,Barrasso Presses for Urgent Action on NDAA,2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"“Democrats’ dithering and delaying – it’s downright dangerous. It sends a terrible message that America’s deterrence isn’t incredible. As a result of the November elections, that’s about to change…” WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) spoke on the Senate floor today to call for urgent passage the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Senator Barrasso also discussed how he spent Thanksgiving in the Middle East with Wyoming service members. With global tensions escalating, passing the NDAA has become more urgent than ever. Senate Democrats have selfishly stalled its passage, withholding critical resources for our troops, their families, and military operations. Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks. Sen. Barrasso’s remarks: “I spent Thanksgiving in the Middle East with 400 members of our Wyoming National Guard. These heroes come from actually 40 different hometowns all across the Cowboy State – small towns, our larger towns, East, West, North, and South. “I spend every Thanksgiving with deployed Wyoming troops. I go to thank them – thank them for all they’re doing to keep all of us safe and free. “Most Americans celebrate Thanksgiving surrounded by their loved ones. These soldiers spent Thanksgiving not with family and neighbors, but in the neighborhood of America’s enemies. “Our enemies today are much more dangerous, aggressive, menacing, and powerful than they were just four years ago. For the past four years, Americans have seen the current administration surrender, squander, and sell out our nation’s strategic advantages. “This administration stopped enforcing sanctions on Iranian oil sales, then allowed Iran to sell discounted oil to China. Iran got richer and more menacing as a result of all the money they got. China got more powerful by being able to buy cheap energy. “Well, the Wyoming soldiers that I had a chance to visit, they’re strong, they’re tough, they are brave. The thing that is so interesting though, is I believe that they’re being failed by a Congress that hasn’t done its job. It is incumbent upon Congress to make sure that all of these soldiers – each and every one of them – is fully equipped to protect our freedoms. “The Senate should have passed a bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act months ago. It increases troop pay, modernizes our military. It also refocuses our forces on specific military hard power, instead of this politically-correct, woke policies that the military has been working under over the past several years. “Right now, high prices are crushing military families. Prices are 20 percent higher right now than they were four years ago. As a result, one in seven servicemembers today relies on food stamps or food banks just to support their families. “This of course has a direct impact in our problems, in terms of trying to recruit more and more members into our military. The pay rise means that a stronger military and a stronger America will be there on the world stage. “Now, as for military modernization, we need to overcome four years of weakness. The current administration has failed to keep us safe. “It allowed 10 million illegal immigrants to cross our Southern Border. It allowed a Chinese spy balloon to fly across America. It led a deadly and disastrous retreat from Afghanistan. And it slashed away at America’s hard power. “Under the Democrats, America became a nation in retreat. Well, the National Defense Authorization Act reverses that. “It equips our military. It equips them to meet the challenges of a dangerous world. So, why hasn’t the Senate – this body, who is here today in session – why hasn’t it yet passed the National Defense Authorization Act? Well, the problem isn’t the product, it’s the process. “In the final weeks of the majority, the Democrats in the Senate have prioritized voting to confirm radical judges rather than protecting our nation’s security. As one Democrat Senator said last month, he said, Democrats are ‘hell-bent’, he said, on getting liberal judges confirmed. “Why can’t Democrats show that same level of passion for supporting our troops? “Democrats’ dithering and delaying – it’s downright dangerous. It sends a terrible message that America’s deterrence isn’t incredible. “As a result of the November elections, that’s about to change. The Senate’s going to change. The American people voted for change. They voted to return to a nation that is safe and strong. “In less than 60 days, America will once again have a president and a Senate majority that prioritizes making America safe and strong again.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-announces-support-for-lee-zeldins-confirmation/,Lummis Announces Support for Lee Zeldin’s Confirmation,2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— Today, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee announced her support for former Congressman Lee Zeldin’s nomination to serve as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “Lee Zeldin has my total and complete support to lead the EPA due to his commitment to cutting onerous regulations and unnecessary red tape that has destroyed industries throughout Wyoming and the west,” said Lummis. “Lee and I served together in the U.S. House, and I have been honored to call him a friend and colleague for many years. I cannot wait to work with him in his next role as EPA Administrator.” This morning, Lummis met with Zeldin to discuss her priorities for EPA including rolling back the Biden administration’s attacks on western energy. Sen. Lummis also highlighted the important role Wyoming plays in powering the nation and the world. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-joins-nbcs-meet-the-press-to-talk-republicans-historic-election-wins/,Barrasso Joins NBC’s Meet The Press to talk Republicans’ Historic Election Wins,2024-11-10,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"“America – the people of this country – voted. They want to get this country back on track.” Sen. Barrasso joins NBC’s Meet The Press with Kristen Welker on Sunday. CASPER, WY – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), appeared on NBC’s Meet The Press to discuss Republicans’ historic election wins, the Senate Republican Majority’s legislative priorities, and the need to quickly put President-Elect Donald Trump’s team in place. Below are key excerpts from the interview: On Republicans’ Historic Election Victories and Mandate: “What you saw there really was an earthquake election. The biggest comeback politically in the history of our country. You know, they used to call Bill Clinton the ‘comeback kid’ – Donald Trump is the Comeback King. He has comeback from two impeachments, from being dragged through the courts, from getting shot. And he won with over 300 electoral votes, a majority of the people, winning all these demographic areas. And you know, he brought us four new Republican Senators – we now have 53 Republican Senators. What that proves is America – the people of this country – voted. They want to get this country back on track. “The mandate are the two things that people care the most about, which is the high costs and the open border. And those are the things we’re going to start working on immediately. We’ve been working with the transition team on those things. Now, there are some things that the President can do as soon as he takes office in terms of making some new turns on these bad policies of the current administration in terms of unleashing American energy. In terms of the policies with the border, reversing so many of these executive orders that were put in place four years ago. “I expect to see the President put back in place the ‘remain in Mexico’ policy, stop this ‘catch and release’ policy.” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on the 2024 Republican mandate. On Getting President-Elect Trump’s Team in Place: “And the Senate also wants to work very quickly – actually before the inauguration – making sure the President’s cabinet is in place. We’re going to have hearings and votes so that on day one, January 20th, when the President takes over, he’s going to have as much of the cabinet in place as we can get. And he met huge resistance in 2016 when he was inaugurated in 2017 with getting his cabinet in place. What I’m hoping is that as a result of this huge landslide victory, that we get a little more cooperation from the Democrats in helping President Trump get that cabinet in place for day one.” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on President-Elect Trump’s team. On Securing Our Border and Deporting Criminal Illegal Immigrants: “There’s no price tag on protecting the safety and security of our country and our citizens. President Trump is going to enforce the law, and we haven’t had that over the last four years. There are over ten million illegal immigrants in this country right now – and we’re talking about people who are from criminal cartels, drug dealers, people on the terrorist watch list. These are people who are here in this country who have been murdering, raping, poisoning our citizens, and what the President said is he wants to prioritize and go after those people first to deport those individuals. But Kristen, if you take a look – and you didn’t get to this with the poll numbers – the number of people that support deporting these individuals, it is a supermajority of Americans. And I believe it had a lot to do with the President’s success – his overwhelming success – at the polls last Tuesday.” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on securing our border. On Stopping Democrat Tax Hikes: “We’ve been working with the transition team. And I will tell you in the hopes that we took the presidency, the House, and the Senate, members of the Senate have been meeting. I’m on the Finance Committee – we have been meeting through the summer and the fall. In terms of saying, ‘What can we do? How can we make sure we can continue these tax cuts from 2017 and extend them and make them permanent? What sort of things can we claw back from some of the excessive spending that the Democrats have done in terms of money that’s going out or hasn’t gone out yet? ’ So we’ve been working on this all the way through and we’re going to continue to do that. “Now, first, as you know, this is something we would do through reconciliation, so we have to win the House to make it happen and pass a budget. But we’ve been working with Lindsey Graham – he’ll be chairman of the Budget Committee in the Senate – to make sure we can accomplish as much as we possibly can to give the tax relief that the American people deserve and need. And we know that it was all this massive spending by the last administration that gave us this inflation that hurt the country so much […]What we know is when we cut taxes last time, the amount of money coming into the Treasury actually went up. It stimulated the economy less burden on businesses, less burden on families and individuals.” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on Democrat tax hikes. On President Trump’s Historic Selection for White House Chief of Staff: “And he’s made one decision already – and that’s putting Susie Wiles in as the Chief of Staff. That’s a historic decision as well. She is the first woman Chief of Staff of the White House in history – President Trump has done that. She’s terrific.” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on Susie Wiles. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:02:12Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-statement-on-president-donald-j-trump-victory/,Barrasso Statement on President Donald J. Trump Victory,2024-11-06,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"CASPER, WY – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), chairman of the Senate Republican Conference, today released the following statement after President Donald J. Trump was elected the 47th President of the United States. “President Trump’s victory today is a mandate from the American people to get this country back on track. Millions chose a new President who puts America first. We chose a President who values our freedom, not the heavy hand of Washington bureaucrats. We chose a President who will unleash American energy, secure the border, lower prices, and restore peace through strength. “President Trump’s agenda runs through the Republican-led United States Senate. Working together, we will deliver for the American people.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:02:12Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-calls-out-biden-harris-administrations-blatant-discrimination-against-starlink-internet-access/,"Lummis, Calls Out Biden-Harris Administration’s Blatant Discrimination Against Starlink Internet Access",2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C—Today, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) joined Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) in calling out the Biden-Harris administration for spreading misinformation about broadband connectivity in the U.S. in a letter to the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). In their letter, the senators highlight how this administration is intentionally excluding from data on connectivity millions of households that rely on wireless and satellite technologies, particularly in our nation’s most rural and hard-to-reach areas, including many in Wyoming. “Many households across Wyoming rely on wireless and satellite technologies for connectivity in the most rural parts of our state, yet this administration’s decision to play politics continues to push our goal of bridging the digital divide further out of reach,” said Lummis. “By unnecessarily picking winners and losers, this administration has sabotaged bipartisan programs best equipped to provide connectivity to underserved areas and perpetuates misinformation about broadband in rural communities.” The Biden-Harris administration’s prioritization of politics over sound broadband policy has sabotaged the $42.45 billion Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, which was intended to help more Americans connect to high-speed internet.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:02:12Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-wyoming-delegation-joins-colleagues-demanding-answers-from-doj-on-illegal-aliens-registering-to-vote/,Wyoming Delegation Joins Colleagues Demanding Answers from DOJ on Illegal Aliens Registering to Vote,2024-10-08,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis as well as U.S. Representative Harriet Hageman (all R-Wyo.) recently joined Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), and a large congressional coalition in demanding answers from U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland of the Department of Justice (DOJ) on alarming recent reports of illegal aliens registering to vote in the United States. “We are deeply concerned by reports of non-citizens registering to vote and voting in federal elections,” the Members of Congress wrote. “As of today, there has been no response from you or your Department regarding the inquiry on July 12, 2024, seeking information on efforts undertaken by your Department to enforce laws prohibiting non-citizen voting. Given that the 2024 Presidential Election is in less than 34 days, your Department’s inaction and refusal to provide any information regarding its efforts to promote public trust and confidence in our elections is especially alarming.” “Clearly, there is a non-negligible amount of voter participation by non-citizens in federal elections, which is not only a serious threat to the integrity of our elections and the democratic process they represent, but also has the potential to reduce Americans’ trust and confidence in election results,” the Members of Congress continued. The letter was led by Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and Representative Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.-05). Co-signers of the letter include Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Kennedy (R-La.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), along with Representatives Andy Harris (R-Md.-01), Clay Higgins (R-La.-03), Gary Palmer (R-Ala.-06), Matt Rosendale (R-Mont.-02), Ralph Norman (R-S.C.-05), Eli Crane (R-Ariz.-02), Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.-05), Aaron Bean (R-Fla.-04), Josh Brecheen (R-Okla.-02), Nancy Mace (R-S.C.-01), Bob Good (R-Va.-05), Eric Burlison (R-Mo.-07), Mike Ezell (R-Miss.-04), Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.-03), Tom Tiffany (R-Wis.-07), Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.-03), Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.-24), Michael Guest (R-Miss.-03), Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.-01), Ben Cline (R-Va.-06), Chip Roy (R-Texas-21), Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga.-11), Mary Miller (R-Ill.-15), Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.-09), Lance Gooden (R-Texas-05), Jeff Duncan (R-S.C.-03), Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.-01), Barry Moore (R-Ala.-02), Mike Collins (R-Ga.-10), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.-02), Greg Lopez (R-Colo.-04), Keith Self (R-Texas-03), Brian Babin (R-Texas-36), August Pfluger (R-Texas-11), Alex Mooney (R-W.Va.-02), Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.-01), Randy Weber (R-Texas-14), Rich McCormick (R-Ga.-06), and Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.-01). A copy of the letter can be found here and below. Dear Attorney General Garland: We are deeply concerned by reports of non-citizens registering to vote and voting in federal elections. As of today, there has been no response from you or your Department regarding the inquiry on July 12, 2024, seeking information on efforts undertaken by your Department to enforce laws prohibiting non-citizen voting. Given that the 2024 Presidential Election is in less than 34 days, your Department’s inaction and refusal to provide any information regarding its efforts to promote public trust and confidence in our elections is especially alarming. Since the initial letter, several more concerning reports have been released by state officials indicating that a large number of non-citizens appear on their voter rolls. For example, the Virginia Attorney General recently announced that 6,303 non-citizens were identified on and removed from Virginia’s voter rolls in 2022 and 2023. In another troubling report released in August, over 6,500 non-citizens registered to vote in Texas were identified and removed from voter rolls. Of the 6,500 non-citizens identified, 1,930 had a voter history. Clearly, there is a non-negligible amount of voter participation by non-citizens in federal elections, which is not only a serious threat to the integrity of our elections and the democratic process they represent, but also has the potential to reduce Americans’ trust and confidence in election results. Accordingly, we respectfully reiterate the July 12 request for information on your Department’s enforcement efforts. The initial deadline for providing this information was July 26, 2024, so the response is now 9 weeks overdue. Please provide responses to the following no later than October 16, 2024: 1. Please provide the number of aliens who have been charged, tried, or convicted under 18 U.S.C. § 611 since January 20, 2021, including the status of each case. 2. Please provide the number of aliens who been charged, tried, or convicted under 52 U.S.C. § 20511 since January 20, 2021, including the status of each case. 3. Please provide the number of aliens who have been prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 911 since 2021, including the status of each case. 4. Please provide the number of referrals received from other government officials or the public in reference to the statutes cited in questions 1 through 3. 5. How does the Department of Justice investigate allegations received of non-citizen voting or voter registration? 6. What affirmative steps have the Department of Justice taken to detect, prevent, and deter illegal aliens and other non-citizens from registering and voting in federal elections? 7. What affirmative steps have the Department taken to obtain relevant information from the Department of Homeland Security on aliens who have registered or voted in elections? 8. What steps have been taken by U.S. Attorneys and the Public Integrity Section of the Criminal Division, which is responsible for prosecuting election crimes and assisting U.S. Attorneys in prosecuting election crimes, to obtain jury-related information that indicates aliens have unlawfully registered to vote? 9. As the 2024 election nears, what steps will the Department take to detect, investigate, and prosecute non-citizens who violate 18 U.S.C.§ 911, 52 U.S.C. § 20511, or 18 U.S.C. § 611 by voting or registering to vote in the 2024 election? 10. What steps have the Department taken to contact Virginia and Texas election officials to obtain information and the voter registration and voter history files on each of the aliens removed from the voter rolls who were unlawfully registered and voting in those states? Thank you for your attention to this matter and we look forward to your prompt reply. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/wyoming-delegation-joins-colleagues-demanding-answers-from-doj-on-illegal-aliens-registering-to-vote/,Wyoming Delegation Joins Colleagues Demanding Answers from DOJ on Illegal Aliens Registering to Vote,2024-10-08,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis as well as U.S. Representative Harriet Hageman (all R-Wyo.) recently joined Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), and a large congressional coalition in demanding answers from U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland of the Department of Justice (DOJ) on alarming recent reports of illegal aliens registering to vote in the United States. “We are deeply concerned by reports of non-citizens registering to vote and voting in federal elections,” the Members of Congress wrote. “As of today, there has been no response from you or your Department regarding the inquiry on July 12, 2024, seeking information on efforts undertaken by your Department to enforce laws prohibiting non-citizen voting. Given that the 2024 Presidential Election is in less than 34 days, your Department’s inaction and refusal to provide any information regarding its efforts to promote public trust and confidence in our elections is especially alarming.” “Clearly, there is a non-negligible amount of voter participation by non-citizens in federal elections, which is not only a serious threat to the integrity of our elections and the democratic process they represent, but also has the potential to reduce Americans’ trust and confidence in election results,” the Members of Congress continued. The letter was led by Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and Representative Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.-05). Co-signers of the letter include Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Kennedy (R-La.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), along with Representatives Andy Harris (R-Md.-01), Clay Higgins (R-La.-03), Gary Palmer (R-Ala.-06), Matt Rosendale (R-Mont.-02), Ralph Norman (R-S.C.-05), Eli Crane (R-Ariz.-02), Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.-05), Aaron Bean (R-Fla.-04), Josh Brecheen (R-Okla.-02), Nancy Mace (R-S.C.-01), Bob Good (R-Va.-05), Eric Burlison (R-Mo.-07), Mike Ezell (R-Miss.-04), Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.-03), Tom Tiffany (R-Wis.-07), Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.-03), Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.-24), Michael Guest (R-Miss.-03), Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.-01), Ben Cline (R-Va.-06), Chip Roy (R-Texas-21), Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga.-11), Mary Miller (R-Ill.-15), Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.-09), Lance Gooden (R-Texas-05), Jeff Duncan (R-S.C.-03), Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.-01), Barry Moore (R-Ala.-02), Mike Collins (R-Ga.-10), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.-02), Greg Lopez (R-Colo.-04), Keith Self (R-Texas-03), Brian Babin (R-Texas-36), August Pfluger (R-Texas-11), Alex Mooney (R-W.Va.-02), Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.-01), Randy Weber (R-Texas-14), Rich McCormick (R-Ga.-06), and Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.-01). A copy of the letter can be found here and below. Dear Attorney General Garland: We are deeply concerned by reports of non-citizens registering to vote and voting in federal elections. As of today, there has been no response from you or your Department regarding the inquiry on July 12, 2024, seeking information on efforts undertaken by your Department to enforce laws prohibiting non-citizen voting. Given that the 2024 Presidential Election is in less than 34 days, your Department’s inaction and refusal to provide any information regarding its efforts to promote public trust and confidence in our elections is especially alarming. Since the initial letter, several more concerning reports have been released by state officials indicating that a large number of non-citizens appear on their voter rolls. For example, the Virginia Attorney General recently announced that 6,303 non-citizens were identified on and removed from Virginia’s voter rolls in 2022 and 2023. In another troubling report released in August, over 6,500 non-citizens registered to vote in Texas were identified and removed from voter rolls. Of the 6,500 non-citizens identified, 1,930 had a voter history. Clearly, there is a non-negligible amount of voter participation by non-citizens in federal elections, which is not only a serious threat to the integrity of our elections and the democratic process they represent, but also has the potential to reduce Americans’ trust and confidence in election results. Accordingly, we respectfully reiterate the July 12 request for information on your Department’s enforcement efforts. The initial deadline for providing this information was July 26, 2024, so the response is now 9 weeks overdue. Please provide responses to the following no later than October 16, 2024: 1. Please provide the number of aliens who have been charged, tried, or convicted under 18 U.S.C. § 611 since January 20, 2021, including the status of each case. 2. Please provide the number of aliens who been charged, tried, or convicted under 52 U.S.C. § 20511 since January 20, 2021, including the status of each case. 3. Please provide the number of aliens who have been prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 911 since 2021, including the status of each case. 4. Please provide the number of referrals received from other government officials or the public in reference to the statutes cited in questions 1 through 3. 5. How does the Department of Justice investigate allegations received of non-citizen voting or voter registration? 6. What affirmative steps have the Department of Justice taken to detect, prevent, and deter illegal aliens and other non-citizens from registering and voting in federal elections? 7. What affirmative steps have the Department taken to obtain relevant information from the Department of Homeland Security on aliens who have registered or voted in elections? 8. What steps have been taken by U.S. Attorneys and the Public Integrity Section of the Criminal Division, which is responsible for prosecuting election crimes and assisting U.S. Attorneys in prosecuting election crimes, to obtain jury-related information that indicates aliens have unlawfully registered to vote? 9. As the 2024 election nears, what steps will the Department take to detect, investigate, and prosecute non-citizens who violate 18 U.S.C.§ 911, 52 U.S.C. § 20511, or 18 U.S.C. § 611 by voting or registering to vote in the 2024 election? 10. What steps have the Department taken to contact Virginia and Texas election officials to obtain information and the voter registration and voter history files on each of the aliens removed from the voter rolls who were unlawfully registered and voting in those states? Thank you for your attention to this matter and we look forward to your prompt reply. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-colleagues-introduce-resolution-to-celebrate-domestic-energy-producers/,"Lummis, Colleagues Introduce Resolution to Celebrate Domestic Energy Producers",2024-10-04,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced a resolution to designate October 4, 2024, as National Energy Appreciation Day to celebrate the men and women who work to power our nation and the world. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), James Lankford (R-OK), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), John Hoeven (R-ND), Jim Risch (R-ID), Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) cosponsored the resolution. “Wyoming’s energy producers work tirelessly each and every day to power our nation, yet our domestic energy industry is under attack like never before due to the Biden-Harris administration’s war on energy production,” said Lummis. “I introduced this resolution to recognize and celebrate the men and women in the Cowboy State and throughout the country who work to power not only our nation, but the entire world.” “American energy production fuels American success,” said Barrasso. “Wyoming is America’s energy breadbasket. Our workers produce the energy and resources that keep America running and our economy strong. While this administration wages war on American energy, Wyoming will proudly celebrate National Energy Appreciation Day and continue to unleash American energy.” “Louisiana energy workers are the reason we have the fuel to run our cars and electricity to power our homes,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Thanks for powering the American economy.” “Oklahoma energy producers and energy innovators are leading America to energy dominance,”said Lankford. “They continue their great work to provide clean, affordable, and reliable energy to our state, despite the Biden-Harris Administration’s agenda to raise energy prices and surrender our energy future to China.” “Energy generated in West Virginia, made possible by our skilled and dedicated workforce, continues to keep homes warm, lights on, and move our nation forward,” said Capito. “West Virginia energy producers have done this for generations, and this tradition will always be a central aspect of our identity and culture in the Mountain State. On National Energy Appreciation Day, we recognize how this sector strengthens our national security and improves the lives of our people, country, and world. I’m proud to join my colleagues to once again establish this day of appreciation and highlight the importance of American energy and the personnel behind it.” “National Energy Appreciation Day recognizes the vital role that American energy and its workers play in our quality of life and the success of our economy,” said Hoeven. “That’s why we continue working to rescind costly federal rules and provide regulatory relief to ensure our nation can continue to utilize all of its abundant energy resources, including coal, oil and gas, making energy affordable again for Americans.” “The thousands of hardworking Mississippians and Americans producing domestic energy are vital to our daily lives and the very foundation of our national and economic security,” said Hyde-Smith. “It is undeniable that U.S.-produced energy is not only more affordable, but also cleaner and safer than the options our current administration favors from foreign adversaries. I am proud to join Senator Lummis in championing this resolution, and I appreciate the efforts of the American energy industry that powers our nation’s progress.” “With American innovation and abundant natural resources, the United States has everything we need to be energy independent and secure,” said Risch. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in celebrating American energy and will continue pushing for policies that cut red tape, boost investment, and ensure affordable, reliable energy for every home and business in Idaho.” “The United States produces the cheapest, cleanest, and best energy in the world, and nowhere is that more evident than in North Dakota,” said Cramer. “On National Energy Appreciation Day, we celebrate the men and women who keep our energy secure, reliable, and affordable.” Sen. Cruz said, “Energy and prosperity are inseparable, and America’s energy producers drive the growth and strength of our nation. The American oil and gas industry, led by Texas producers, is the backbone of our economy, supporting millions of hardworking families and producing billions of dollars. Catastrophically, the Biden-Harris administration has pursued an extreme climate agenda that disregards these basic facts and undermines American energy production. I am proud to join Senator Lummis and my fellow Republican Senators in introducing this resolution, which recognizes the importance of this vital industry.” BACKGROUND: American energy plays an integral role in keeping energy affordable, reliable and efficient while also supporting economic growth and creating upward mobility. Not only have domestic energy advancements greatly reduced emissions, but widespread access to energy has more than doubled life expectancy and reduced the percentage of people living in poverty to less than 10%. The American energy industry accounts for more than seven million jobs and ultimately supports more than 10 million jobs across the United States. The U.S. oil and natural gas industry generates nearly $1.8 billion in gross domestic product annually. Federal oil and natural gas leases for onshore and offshore development brought in $15.9 billion for the federal government in 2023. This is $6.3 billion less than 2022, due in large part to the administration’s war on American energy, including banning exports of liquified natural gas. Since day one of the Biden-Harris administration, President Biden and Vice President Harris have taken several actions to greatly restrict domestic energy production including: Halting construction of the Keystone XL pipeline. Banning exports of liquified natural gas (LNG). Drastically increasing royalty rates for domestic gas production on federal lands. Putting Resource Management Plans (RMPs) in place to effectively end oil and gas production on federal lands. Halting offshore oil and gas leases in the gulf due to the potential for the Rices Whale to be impacted despite no scientific evidence the whale is impacted by offshore drilling. For a copy of the resolution, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-statement-on-elk-fire-impacting-sheridan-county/,Barrasso Statement on Elk Fire Impacting Sheridan County,2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"CASPER, WY – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) released the following statement offering support for those impacted by the Elk Fire in Sheridan County. “My prayers are with all those affected by the unprecedented Elk Fire in northern Wyoming. It’s vital that residents of Sheridan County and the surrounding areas follow the local evacuation guidelines. I encourage everyone to monitor the Sheridan County website (http://sheridancountywy.gov) for emergency updates and information on helpful resources. “My office is working with the state to do everything we can to assist those on the ground in relief efforts. Thank you to all our brave firefighters in Wyoming who risk their lives to keep us safe and protect our homes and communities.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-bill-cuts-red-tape-on-rural-economic-development-grants/,Barrasso Bill Cuts Red Tape on Rural Economic Development Grants,2024-09-27,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) recently introduced legislation to make federal grants more accessible for rural communities in Wyoming and across the country. The bill would require the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to work with leaders in rural communities to streamline and simplify the grant application process. “Our rural communities and small businesses are the backbone of Wyoming’s economy,” said Senator Barrasso. “Too many of Wyoming’s smaller communities miss out on federal grant opportunities due to the confusing, burdensome and time-consuming application process. The EDA Short Form Application Act will bring economic development grants within rural Wyoming’s reach. Cutting red tape and creating a shorter, more relevant process will make it easier for Wyoming’s rural communities to successfully apply for these valuable grants.” The EDA Short Form Application Act would: Require the establishment and use of short form applications for rural communities applying for economic development grant programs, and for other purposes. Require the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to consult a representative group of rural stakeholders for input on the following criteria: The length of the applications, The information and documentation required or requested to be submitted as part of the applications, The degree of applicability to rural communities of questions in the applications and information and documentation described requested, and Any other considerations the Assistant Secretary determines to be necessary for the establishment of the short form application. Full text of the legislation can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-lummis-cosponsor-legislation-to-protect-domestic-agriculture-supply-chains-from-foreign-threats/,"Barrasso, Lummis Cosponsor Legislation to Protect Domestic Agriculture Supply Chains from Foreign Threats",2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis (both R-WY) joined U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) in introducing the bipartisan Securing American Agriculture Act. This legislation would protect Wyoming food and agriculture supply chains from being taken over by foreign adversaries. “Protecting America’s agricultural and food supply chains from Chinese Communist Party threats is a top priority,” said Barrasso. “China’s alarming influence on the global agricultural supply chain puts our national security at risk. This legislation will strengthen our agricultural and food security and enable us to act on potential threats against America’s supply chain.” “The threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) extends far beyond our borders. From the content we consume on our devices to threats in the Pacific to the slave labor being used to manufacture clothing, the CCP has had an incredibly damaging influence on the United States. We cannot allow our foreign adversaries like China to control us. This commonsense, bipartisan legislation is a crucial step toward safeguarding America’s future,” said Lummis. China controls more than 90% of global production of many essential vitamins used in agricultural production, particularly in animal feed. A disruption in the supply of these key inputs could severely damage U.S. supply chains, affecting productivity and food prices. The Securing American Agriculture Act would: Require the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in conjunction with the U.S. Trade Representative and the Department of Commerce, to conduct an annual threat assessment of critical food and agricultural supply chains. Require the Secretary of Agriculture to provide recommendations to mitigate potential threats from the PRC and for legislative and regulatory actions to reduce barriers to domestic critical input production. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/barrasso-lummis-cosponsor-legislation-to-protect-domestic-agriculture-supply-chains-from-foreign-threats/,"Barrasso, Lummis Cosponsor Legislation to Protect Domestic Agriculture Supply Chains from Foreign Threats",2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis (both R-WY) joined U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) in introducing the bipartisan Securing American Agriculture Act. This legislation would protect Wyoming food and agriculture supply chains from being taken over by foreign adversaries. “Protecting America’s agricultural and food supply chains from Chinese Communist Party threats is a top priority,” said Barrasso. “China’s alarming influence on the global agricultural supply chain puts our national security at risk. This legislation will strengthen our agricultural and food security and enable us to act on potential threats against America’s supply chain.” “The threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) extends far beyond our borders. From the content we consume on our devices to threats in the Pacific to the slave labor being used to manufacture clothing, the CCP has had an incredibly damaging influence on the United States. We cannot allow our foreign adversaries like China to control us. This commonsense, bipartisan legislation is a crucial step toward safeguarding America’s future,” said Lummis. China controls more than 90% of global production of many essential vitamins used in agricultural production, particularly in animal feed. A disruption in the supply of these key inputs could severely damage U.S. supply chains, affecting productivity and food prices. The Securing American Agriculture Act would: Require the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in conjunction with the U.S. Trade Representative and the Department of Commerce, to conduct an annual threat assessment of critical food and agricultural supply chains. Require the Secretary of Agriculture to provide recommendations to mitigate potential threats from the PRC and for legislative and regulatory actions to reduce barriers to domestic critical input production. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-introduces-enhanced-energy-recovery-act/,Barrasso Introduces Enhanced Energy Recovery Act,2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) was joined by U.S. Senators James Lankford (R-Okla.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) in introducing legislation to enhance carbon capture incentives and energy production. The Enhanced Energy Recovery Act (S. 5212) would create parity under the Section 45Q carbon capture tax credit by giving across-the-board, equal treatment for carbon captured for increased energy production, utilization, and sequestration. “For years, Wyoming has proudly led the way on carbon capture projects,” said Sen. Barrasso. “We’ve successfully used this technology to take carbon out of the air and find productive uses for it. One of those uses includes enhanced oil and natural gas recovery – a technique that significantly increases energy production while reducing carbon emissions. Recent changes to Section 45Q have made it harder for American energy producers and manufacturers to use this credit. The Enhanced Energy Recovery Act fixes this policy by ensuring equal treatment for energy production, utilization, and sequestration. This will bolster our nation’s energy security, support Wyoming’s energy workers, and help lower costs for American families.” “Building the infrastructure to capture carbon in Louisiana will create tens of thousands of jobs and there will be tens of billions of dollars of investment,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This will help Louisiana continue to lead as an energy and manufacturing state.” “Long before carbon storage became national buzzwords, Wyoming’s oil and gas workers were already permanently storing CO2 in enhanced oil recovery projects. For over 30 years CO2 injection has not only sequestered carbon in Wyoming but also helped produce millions of barrels of oil that the United States requires to meet energy demand. Senator Barrasso’s bill recognizes that enhanced oil recovery using CO2 deserves equal treatment to non-productive sequestration not only to create a level playing field in the tax code, but also because it supports high-paying oil and gas careers and pumps revenue into state and federal coffers. We applaud Senator Barrasso and urge speedy passage of the Enhanced Energy Recovery Act.” – Pete Obermueller, President, Petroleum Association of Wyoming “At a time where energy demand is soaring, it is more important than ever to ensure that the United States relies on domestic energy sources for our security. Wyoming has long been a leader in carbon management, whether it be using CO2 as a commodity for enhanced oil recovery or paving the way with CCUS technologies. Capturing CO2 and using it to increase our domestic production, keeping energy reliable and affordable for all Americans, is a win for our nation. This bill is a crucial piece of legislation to ensure a level playing field for the growing markets that use CO2. We applaud Senator Barrasso’s continued leadership and efforts to support Wyoming’s energy industry.” – Rob Creager, Executive Director of the Wyoming Energy Authority “The Independent Petroleum Association of America (IPAA) supports Senator Barrasso’s Enhanced Energy Recovery Act. Providing parity between carbon sequestration and utilization within the tax code ensures that CO2 is captured and stored in the most economically viable manner possible. The bill further incentivizes companies to continue to use direct air capture technology, fostering ongoing development and deployment of these cutting-edge emissions reduction technologies with the promise of working toward the goals of overall emissions reduction in the United States. IPAA thanks Senator Barrasso for taking a pragmatic, forward looking approach to management of carbon dioxide emissions.” – Jeff Eshelman, President & CEO, Independent Petroleum Association of America “We are pleased to express our strong support for Senator Barrasso’s Enhanced Energy Recovery Act, which takes a critical step forward in leveling the playing field for carbon oxide sequestration. This balanced approach provides a powerful incentive for the oil and gas industry to continue its leadership in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) while also recognizing the role of EOR in safely managing carbon dioxide and extending the productive life of oil fields. Senator Barrasso’s vision for equitable treatment of carbon management technologies aligns with the industry’s commitment to reducing emissions, enhancing energy security, and delivering economic benefits to rural communities.” – Jerry R. Simmons, President & CEO, Domestic Energy Producers Alliance Full text of the legislation can be found here. Background: The Enhanced Energy Recovery Act increases the effective value of the 45Q tax credit for captured carbon used in enhanced oil recovery and utilization to match that of sequestration. Currently, the full tax credit incentive for carbon used in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and utilization is $60/metric ton, while the value for sequestration is $85/metric ton. This bill sets all three values at $85/metric ton for EOR, utilization, and sequestration. Additionally, the bill creates equal treatment for carbon captured through Direct Air Capture (DAC). It increases the value of DAC-captured carbon used for EOR and utilization by increasing the incentive from $130/metric ton, up to $180/ton, consistent with the current value of captured carbon used in sequestration. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-if-harris-wanted-to-secure-the-border-why-hasnt-she-done-it-yet/,"Barrasso: If Harris Wanted to Secure the Border, Why Hasn’t She Done It Yet?",2024-09-24,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"“The crisis, the chaos, the crime, they are all a direct result of the terrible policies by Kamala Harris and Joe Biden. More than 10 million illegal immigrants have flooded into our country. They’ve done that in just the last four years with Kamala Harris and Joe Biden in the White House.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), chairman of the Senate Republican Conference, spoke on the Senate floor today slamming Joe Biden and Kamala Harris for creating the worst illegal immigration crisis in American history. He discussed how their open-border policies have allowed a violent Venezuelan gang – known as Tren de Aragua – to terrorize communities across the country. Senator Barrasso highlighted how one suspected gang member was recently imprisoned in Laramie County, Wyoming. Sen. Barrasso’s remarks: “I rise today to discuss the crisis that we are facing today in America at our southern border. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have created the worst illegal immigrant crisis in American history. “Kamala Harris and Joe Biden removed every successful policy that was in place during the Trump administration. Kamala Harris and Joe Biden replaced them with policies that released millions upon millions of illegal immigrants into our country. “The crisis, the chaos, the crime, they are all a direct result of the terrible policies by Kamala Harris and Joe Biden. “Here are the facts. “More than 10 million illegal immigrants have flooded into our country. They’ve done that in just the last four years with Kamala Harris and Joe Biden in the White House. “At the same time, deadly drugs like fentanyl are flowing into our communities. Each year, tens of thousands of Americans are poisoned by fentanyl that comes across our southern border. “Our communities in every state are being overrun and overwhelmed by this flood of illegal immigrants. “Let’s look at the horrible scenes that are developing now in Aurora, Colorado, just to the south of my home state of Wyoming. This is a city where members of violent Venezuelan gangs have turned apartment complexes into hellholes. “That’s exactly what they’ve done. One resident said it’s been a ‘nightmare.’ “So how did these gangs find themselves in that situation, in that location? And how did people living in those communities find themselves in this terrorizing situation? “Well, according to one report, the Harris-Biden administration, along with the city of Denver, provided the incentives. “What are the incentives? Well, Denver offered illegal immigrants two months of subsidized rent. The source of the rent money came from Democrats’ March 2021 reckless tax and spending spree of $1.9 trillion. “Stop and think about that for just a second. The same law that fueled 40-year high inflation – that caused prices to go up for families all across the country by 20% since Joe Biden and Kamala Harris came into office – that same bill has now incentivized the worst border crisis in American history. “It was Vice President Harris who came and sat in that chair and cast the critical tie-breaking vote right here in the Senate for that reckless spending bill. “Her one single vote as Vice President – as President of this institution, the U.S. Senate – brought record high prices and a record-breaking border disaster. “These problems spill over from the sanctuary cities like those in Colorado, and they hit neighboring states like my home state of Wyoming. “In Laramie County, Wyoming, law enforcement officials say that the number of illegal immigrants in their jails has more than doubled. “One of those jailed illegal immigrants is a suspected member of that violent Venezuelan gang that took over the apartment complex in Colorado. A gang that has been described as ‘MS-13 on steroids.’ “Make no mistake, Vice President Harris is complicit in all of this border disaster. “Now, just today, Vice President Harris says she wants to ‘secure the border.’ New language for her. Well, let me tell you, she hasn’t done it yet. “For the past four years, Kamala Harris has been the second most powerful person in the world, and she was appointed by the President to be the Border Czar. He said she knew how, he had full confidence in her, she knew how to handle the problem. Well, as the Border Czar, she has the power to secure the southern border and has that power still today – not doing it. “So, let me ask again, why hasn’t it been done? “Let me tell you why. “Like Joe Biden, Vice President Harris wants to smooth the flow of illegal immigrants. Doesn’t want to stop it, oh no, doesn’t want to stop it. Wants to smooth the flow. “This is an extreme position and out of touch with the American people. “Like Joe Biden, Kamala Harris opposes the border wall. She had actually called the wall a ‘stupid waste of money.’ That’s what we hear from the Vice President of the United States. That is an extreme position compared to what the American people would like to see happen today. “Kamala Harris also said that building the wall to prevent terrorists from entering the country, she said, was the ‘height of irresponsibility.’ The height of irresponsibility to try to keep terrorists out of the country. Nope, come on in, she wants. “This again: Kamala Harris, San Francisco Liberal, extreme position. “Remember, terror suspects are exploiting our vulnerability. The number of terror suspects that we’ve caught crossing the border has risen by 3,000 percent since Joe Biden and Kamala Harris took over the presidency and the vice presidency. “This administration promises amnesty for illegal immigrants. This is an invitation. They’re inviting millions upon millions of illegal immigrants into this country. This is an extreme position compared to what the American people want and expect from their elected officials. “What we’re seeing across the country is Kamala Harris, Democrats across the board, San Francisco, providing free health care for illegal immigrants. Another extreme position of the Democrats in the White House. “They demand that our hard-earned taxpayer dollars pay for free housing, free preloaded debit cards, free cell phones for illegal immigrants. The American public hate this. This is their taxpayer dollars. “Democrats’ open border policies have cost the taxpayers plenty. The numbers are jaw-dropping. $451 billion so far, and the number keeps going up. “Like President Biden, Kamala Harris wants to stop deporting criminals who are here in this country illegally. She wants to stop it. In the past, she said illegal immigration should not be a crime. Well, once again, out of touch with the American people. It’s an extreme position. “This is the truth. Kamala Harris’ policies are no different than the dangerous, disastrous, deadly policies of President Joe Biden, who signed 94 executive orders in his first 100 days in office. “This is the problem that our country faces today. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris threw open the borders. 10 million illegal immigrants have come on through. “When this administration stopped building the wall and ended Remain in Mexico, Vice President Harris was right there cheering on Joe Biden. “When Joe Biden brought back the failed policy of catch and release, Vice President Harris had his back. “When Joe Biden wanted to send stimulus checks to illegal immigrants, what happened? Kamala Harris came into this chamber, sat in that chair, and cast the tie-breaking vote for this radical and reckless policy. “Sending stimulus checks to illegal immigrants, just giving them more and more free stuff funded by the American taxpayers. “To add insult to injury, Kamala Harris actually has said then, well, the border’s secure. Nobody believes that. I don’t even think she believes it. She should know better. If she does not, that should disqualify her from being a candidate for president or for being president. “On September 22nd, Vice President Harris claimed, ‘we have a secure border’. Who is she listening to? Why didn’t she go and look for herself? Three days earlier, the illegal immigrant who murdered Laken Riley entered our country. “It is time to close the book on Joe Biden and Kamala Harris and their dangerous border policies. It’s time for us to get serious, Mr. President, about securing the border and making our communities safer. “Senate Republicans have real solutions. It’s finish the wall. It’s end catch and release. It’s restore the Remain in Mexico policy, a policy that worked. Our solution also includes deporting illegal immigrants and stopping illegal immigrants from voting in our elections. “So, I return to the question I asked at the beginning: if Kamala Harris wants to secure the border, why hasn’t she done so yet?” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-thune-pressure-broadband-czar-harris-on-mismanagement-of-federal-initiatives/,"Lummis, Thune Pressure “Broadband Czar” Harris on Mismanagement of Federal Initiatives",2024-09-23,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C—U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) joined U.S. Senator John Thune (R-SD), in sending a letter to Vice President Kamala Harris regarding her egregious mismanagement of federal broadband initiatives. In 2021, President Biden assigned the Vice President to lead broadband service expansion to rural and unserved communities. Under Harris’ reign as “Broadband Czar,” the $42 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program has gone untouched, failing to connect a single person to the internet. The lack of broadband access is especially hurting our most rural states like Wyoming. “The digital divide is most apparent in the Cowboy State’s most rural communities, and it is past time for the broadband czar to do her job and use the BEAD program to eliminate the difficulties people in Wyoming face when trying to access reliable broadband services. It is critical for Kamala Harris to prioritize deploying broadband throughout the west,” said Lummis. For a copy of the letter, click here. The text is below. Dear Vice President Harris: We are writing to express serious concerns regarding your role as the Biden-Harris administration’s “broadband czar” and the mismanagement of federal broadband initiatives under your leadership. It appears that your performance as “broadband czar” has mirrored your performance as “border czar,” marked by poor management and a lack of effectiveness despite significant federal broadband investments and your promises to deliver broadband to rural areas. As you are aware, Congress, through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, provided the National Telecommunications and Information Administration with $42.45 billion for the Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. These funds are intended to provide broadband access to unserved communities, particularly those in rural areas. In 2021, you were specifically tasked by President Biden to lead the administration’s efforts to expand broadband services to unserved Americans. And at the time, you stated, “we can bring broadband to rural America today.” Despite your assurances over three years ago, rural and unserved communities continue to wait for the connectivity they were promised. Under your leadership, not a single person has been connected to the internet using the $42.45 billion allocated for the BEAD program. Indeed, Politico recently reported on “the messy, delayed rollout of” this program. Instead of focusing on delivering broadband services to unserved areas, your administration has used the BEAD program to add partisan, extralegal requirements that were never envisioned by Congress and have obstructed broadband deployment. By imposing burdensome climate change mandates on infrastructure projects, prioritizing government-owned networks over private investment, mandating the use of unionized labor in states, and seeking to regulate broadband rates, your administration has caused unnecessary delays leaving millions of Americans unconnected. The administration’s lack of focus on truly connecting the unconnected has failed the American people and represents a gross misuse of limited taxpayer dollars. The American public deserves better. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-lummis-lead-bill-to-bolster-security-for-presidential-nominees-in-the-wake-of-trump-assassination-attempts/,"Barrasso, Lummis Lead Bill to Bolster Security for Presidential Nominees in the Wake of Trump Assassination Attempts",2024-09-20,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following the second assassination attempt on President Trump in just 65 days, Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis (both R-WY) joined Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) in leading 10 of their colleagues in introducing the Protect Our Presidents Act, which enhances U.S. Secret Service (USSS) protection for presidential nominees to the same level currently provided to a sitting U.S. president. “Our nation has witnessed two horrifying assassination attempts on President Trump,” said Barrasso. “We were merely inches away from a catastrophic event that would have changed the course of our history. This cannot happen again. The Protect Our Presidents Act will ensure all presidential nominees receive the same level of protection provided to the president. This will give law enforcement the resources they need to keep President Trump and all of the candidates safe.” “The two confirmed assassination attempts against former President Trump have made it abundantly clear that we need to shore up protection details for presidential candidates,” said Lummis. “What President Trump and his family have gone through in the last 65 days is unimaginable. No presidential candidate should fear for their safety or the wellbeing of their family. I am partnering with Senator Rick Scott to ensure President Trump and all future presidential nominees have the protection they need so they can focus on promoting their respective platforms, not fearing for their safety.” The Protect Our Presidents Act would: Require the USSS to provide presidential nominees the same level of protection provided to the president, as well as any necessary protective measures. The nominee may decline the increased protection if they so choose. Mandate regular reporting: The USSS must brief and report on the status of the presidential nominee’s protection to the Speaker of the House, the House Minority Leader, the Senate Majority Leader, the Senate Minority Leader, members of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and the House of Representatives Homeland Security Committee every 15 days during a presidential election year. This report will include the threat level for each presidential nominee, the security measures being implemented, associated costs, the number of personnel permanently assigned to each protective detail, and any unmet security needs. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/barrasso-lummis-lead-bill-to-bolster-security-for-presidential-nominees-in-the-wake-of-trump-assassination-attempts/,"Barrasso, Lummis Lead Bill to Bolster Security for Presidential Nominees in the Wake of Trump Assassination Attempts",2024-09-20,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following the second assassination attempt on President Trump in just 65 days, Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis (both R-WY) joined Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) in leading 10 of their colleagues in introducing the Protect Our Presidents Act, which enhances U.S. Secret Service (USSS) protection for presidential nominees to the same level currently provided to a sitting U.S. president. “Our nation has witnessed two horrifying assassination attempts on President Trump,” said Barrasso. “We were merely inches away from a catastrophic event that would have changed the course of our history. This cannot happen again. The Protect Our Presidents Act will ensure all presidential nominees receive the same level of protection provided to the president. This will give law enforcement the resources they need to keep President Trump and all of the candidates safe.” “The two confirmed assassination attempts against former President Trump have made it abundantly clear that we need to shore up protection details for presidential candidates,” said Lummis. “What President Trump and his family have gone through in the last 65 days is unimaginable. No presidential candidate should fear for their safety or the wellbeing of their family. I am partnering with Senator Rick Scott to ensure President Trump and all future presidential nominees have the protection they need so they can focus on promoting their respective platforms, not fearing for their safety.” The Protect Our Presidents Act would: Require the USSS to provide presidential nominees the same level of protection provided to the president, as well as any necessary protective measures. The nominee may decline the increased protection if they so choose. Mandate regular reporting: The USSS must brief and report on the status of the presidential nominee’s protection to the Speaker of the House, the House Minority Leader, the Senate Majority Leader, the Senate Minority Leader, members of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and the House of Representatives Homeland Security Committee every 15 days during a presidential election year. This report will include the threat level for each presidential nominee, the security measures being implemented, associated costs, the number of personnel permanently assigned to each protective detail, and any unmet security needs. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-joins-charge-to-penalize-eco-terrorists-who-vandalize-pipelines/,Lummis Joins Charge to Penalize Eco-Terrorists Who Vandalize Pipelines,2024-09-17,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-Wy) joined Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), a member of the Senate Western Caucus, in introducing legislation to protect U.S. energy infrastructure from attacks and threats by radical environmentalists. The Safe and Secure Transportation of American Energy Act would expand criminal penalties to include vandalism, tampering and disruption of pipelines which will protect energy infrastructure out west. “America’s energy industry is critical to our national security, yet there is little recourse for punishing eco-terrorists who attempt to tamper with or disrupt pipeline construction or operations,” said Senator Lummis. “We can no longer allow far-left extremists to get a pass for their blatant disregard for the safety and well-being of innocent Americans which is why I am partnering with Senator Cruz to ensure these crimes do not go unpunished.” Current federal law punishes those who damage or destroy operating pipelines but does not clearly cover vandalism, tampering or disruption of pipeline construction. The Safe and Secure Transportation of American Energy Act addresses this gap. In 2018, charges were dropped against environmental extremists who attempted to shut down Minnesota pipelines because it couldn’t be proven their actions caused ‘damage.’ Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE), Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) cosponsored the legislation. Read the full text of the legislation here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-democrat-tax-hikes-would-strangle-small-businesses/,Barrasso: Democrat Tax Hikes Would Strangle Small Businesses,2024-09-13,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"“Republicans have been very loud and clear that we’re going to do everything that we can in our power to make sure these tax increases never happen.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – At Thursday’s Senate Committee on Finance hearing, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) discussed the damaging impact of Democrats’ proposed tax hikes on small businesses in Wyoming with tax policy experts Jeff Brabant of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) and Daniel Bunn of the Tax Foundation. Specifically, Senator Barrasso detailed the concerns expressed by Wyoming’s small business owners about tax increases, as well as the negative impact that a supercharged death tax would have on family businesses. Brabant and Bunn testified at today’s Senate Committee on Finance hearing on The 2025 Tax Policy Debate and Tax Avoidance Strategies. On Democrats’ Proposed Tax Hikes for Small Businesses “I’ve been a member of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) when I was practicing medicine in Casper, Wyoming. Our Casper Orthopedics was a proud member. “There are a couple of questions, things I’d like to talk with you about in terms of what’s happening here. Plenty of talk on the numerous tax increases that are facing small businesses coming into 2025. “Republicans have been very loud and clear that we’re going to do everything that we can in our power to make sure these tax increases never happen. “We’ve talked about the death tax, the expiration of the small business tax deduction, and increased tax rates across the board that would impact small business owners. “To go even further though, Democrats seem to want to add to that uncertainty that is facing the country and threaten small business owners with a new supercharged death tax, increased capital gains rates, an additional 5% surtax on small business income. “I mean, this to me looks like a plan to strangle small businesses. “So are you hearing from small businesses and the owners about these provisions? And what are they telling you about the 2025 expirations and some of these new tax hikes and proposals that are being threatened?” Follow-Up: “So the things I mentioned that you mentioned are inflation, increased prices, hiring fewer people, higher unemployment. So what impact are these tax proposals then going to have on our broader economy?” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on Democrat tax hikes. On the Supercharged Death Tax and Family Businesses “I travel all around Wyoming and talk to farmers, ranchers, and small business owners. “On Labor Day, I was in the small town of Meeteetse, Wyoming – a town that’s so small that the high school football team plays in the six-man division because that’s as many students as they have to be able to play. “One of the things that keeps them up at night is hearing this stuff about this stepped-up basis. “Many operations across Wyoming and small businesses are generational. The Biden-Harris administration has proposed this supercharged death tax. If my colleagues on the other side of the aisle have their way in 2025, they’d allow the current death tax exemption to expire. “When I hear about this in Meeteetse, Wyoming, this has really gotten out a long way from Washington for people worried about what Washington may do that’s going to apply to their freedoms, life, their livelihood. “Are you hearing the same thing from members of NFIB about keeping the current death tax exemption in place, as well as concerns about these new supercharged death tax as well as this stepped-up basis?” Follow-Up: “We have a group called the Centennial Ranch Group. We have a celebration each year for those that have kept the ranch in the family for 100 years in Wyoming. Wyoming has only been a state for a little less than 140 years. “These are families that have been through drought, fire, terrible winters, all of it. Yet, their biggest threat to continuing in the family business is the federal government on what they’re doing along those lines. So I appreciate your comments on that.” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on the supercharged death tax. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-cosponsors-legislation-to-protect-farms-out-west-from-foreign-land-purchases/,Lummis Cosponsors Legislation to Protect Farms out West from Foreign Land Purchases,2024-09-12,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) joined Senator Mike Braun (R-IN) and 15 of their colleagues in introducing the bipartisan Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act of 2024. This legislation increases oversight and flags agricultural land purchases made by foreign adversaries. This added layer of scrutiny impacts U.S. farmland acquisitions by China, North Korea, Russian and Iran and will protect western agriculture producers from being taken over by our adversaries. “The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has invaded the west through farmland acquisition threatening the livelihood and safety of Wyoming residents. Food security is national security, and our country must prioritize keeping American farmland out of the hands of our enemies,” said Sen. Lummis. “Chinese ownership of American farmland increased more than 20-fold in the past decade. The amount of American soil in the hands of our foreign adversaries will only go up if we do not implement restrictions and oversight, especially on nations that compromise our national security and agricultural supply chains. I’m proud to lead this effort to protect American farms and food security,” said Sen. Braun. “The Chinese Communist Party has proven over and over again they cannot be trusted. They are our adversary, not our ally. All Americans should be alarmed by the amount of American farmland China and other foreign entities own. Giving our adversaries any control over our agricultural resources is a direct threat to our national and food security. Senator Braun’s legislation will help protect America’s farms and safeguard our food supply,” said Sen. Barrasso. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Joni Ernst (R-IA), all members of the Senate Western Caucus, cosponsored this legislation. The Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act of 2024 would: Permanently include the Secretary of Agriculture as a member of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) with respect to covered transactions involving agricultural land, agricultural biotech or the transportation, storage and processing of agricultural products. Authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to report both agricultural land transactions that involve foreign persons of China, North Korea, Russia or Iran and transactions that require AFIDA reporting to CFIUS. The House passed the companion bill, introduced by Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA), this week.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-americans-are-struggling-biden-harris-policies-are-to-blame/,Barrasso: Americans are struggling. Biden-Harris policies are to blame.,2024-09-11,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"“Month after month, year after year, Americans watch their costs go up and their savings go down… Americans cannot afford four more years of failure. Americans need a break from the damaging policies of Vice President Harris.” Click here to watch Senator Barrasso’s full remarks. WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), chairman of the Senate Republican Conference, spoke today on the Senate floor about the economic nightmare caused by the policies of the Biden-Harris administration. Under the Biden-Harris administration, prices have risen over 20 percent, making life unaffordable for hardworking American families. Senate Republicans have solutions to make life more affordable and to unleash American energy. Senator Barrasso’s Remarks: “I come to the Floor today to discuss the need to get our Nation and our Economy back on track. “We learned the morning, new number have come out on inflation, prices are higher today than they were the day that the Biden-Harris administration took over by over 20 percent. “I hear about in Wyoming every weekend. I heard about it this past weekend, how high prices have become and the crushing effect that has had on families in my state of Wyoming and all around the country. “This has been going on now for over three years. Prices have continued to go up. “And this crisis of high prices has been cumulative. The impact on families has been cumulative. It is regrettably causing very hard choices for families to make. It shouldn’t be this way. “Here is a recent headline from CBS News: ‘More Americans are having to choose between food and energy bills.’ Clearly this is a reflection on the Biden-Harris administration. “One of the folks who talked about that was Stacy Freedman. Mrs. Freedman says her energy bills each month cost her hundreds of dollars. As she told CBS News, ‘sometimes I have to choose whether I’m going to pay the light bill” or “pay all the rent or buy food or not let my son’ participate in a sport. “That’s what happened under the Biden-Harris administration. The impact of the high prices caused by the massive amounts of government spending—passed without a single Republican vote— stimulated an amount of increase in prices, the highest in 40 years. “Mrs. Freedman’s story is sadly all too common. “Many Americans know are feeling the high cost and the high anxiety related to the high cost of goods and services in their lives. Nearly 4 out 10, 2 out of 5, Americans say they worry about their ability to pay their own bills. “Since 2019, utilities cost the average American almost $300 more each month. Not $300 a month, $300 more each month from what they were paying before. “These are the costly and cumulative consequences of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris’s war on affordable and reliable American energy. “Mr. President, if you ask people around the country, they know that this is an administration who has strongly come out against American energy. “They froze federal oil and gas leases. They discouraged new energy production. They issued regulations to ban gas-powered vehicles – the kind of vehicles most Americans drive. “So, it’s not a surprise that high energy prices continue to bother and cause pain for families. “Month after month, year after year, Americans watch their costs go up and regrettably see their savings—if they have savings—go down. “The Biden-Harris administration has offered no solutions to our nation’s cost of living crisis. “Democrats instead tell Americans not to believe the price tags at the grocery stores or the price at the gas pump. They want you to believe everything is okay. Americans know that isn’t so. “We learned last month that the Bureau of Labor Statistics – which is supposed to keep accurate unemployment data – well they reported faulty numbers. A million jobs, touted by the Biden-Harris administration, do not actually exist. “They never existed. They were never created. Yet the Biden-Harris administration claimed credit for jobs that do not exist. “Meanwhile, we’ve had two straight months where job growth was lower than expected. “America today has fewer manufacturing jobs than we did last year. “In Michigan, autoworkers are getting laid off. “Last month, the carmaker Stellantis announced plans to lay off more than 2,000 American workers from its plants in Detroit. “This is the same carmaker that received hundreds of millions of dollars in subsidies – a tidal wave of electric vehicle grants from the Biden-Harris administration. And they’re laying off people. Take the money from the government – from the Biden Administration from the Harris administration – and lay off workers. “It’s no surprise that last night in the debate Kamala Harris couldn’t even answer the first question when asked “Are you better off now than you were 4 years ago.” Are you American people better off now than they were 4 years ago? “She could not defend herself. She could not say yes. Because people are not better off now than they were 4 years ago. “These recent layoffs come as they switch their assembly lines from gas-powered vehicles to electric vehicles. “Thousands of American workers soon to be put in the unemployment line as a result to what Harris and Biden and the Democrats are continuing to promote. “Democrats’ regulations, Democrats’ rhetoric of impending climate doom are crushing American jobs. “It is no wonder that Biden and Harris are now running from their record, and it is a record of ruin for the economy. “The flip flops, the walk backs, and the cover ups are all too apparent. “The American people know the policies of Vice President Harris had a chilling impact on our American economy. “When then-Senator Harris was rated the most liberal member of the United States Senate, Americans listened. “When Vice President Harris said recently that her values have not changed, people listened again. “Americans are struggling. Biden-Harris policies, and the Democrat polices, are to blame. “Remember how we got here. Democrats passed trillions of dollars in reckless, radical, runaway spending. “It was so unpopular—not a single Republican voted for it— it had to pass with a tie-breaking vote. “And who broke the vote? Well, the Vice President of the United States, comes to the Senate to pass the tie-breaking vote and that would be Kamala Harris. Now the Democrat candidate for President of the United States. “Vice President Harris came to this chamber and sat in that chair and cast the vote that broke the tie that brought us record-high inflation. 40-year high inflation. “Americans cannot afford four more years of failure. “Americans need a break from the damaging policies of Vice President Harris. “What Harris is proposing is more wasteful, Washington spending. Harris wants to raise taxes on the middle class, and impose socialist-style price controls. “She supports banning fracking. She supports banning gas-powered vehicles. She wants to make energy more expensive. “That’s how she’s voted. That’s how her rhetoric has been. And as she’s said, her values haven’t changed. “Vice President Harris would continue the nightmare of high prices and high taxes. “Let’s remember, it was different three and a half years ago under the Trump administration. “Back then, paychecks were going up. Inflation was nonexistent. Americans were breaking free of poverty. America was energy dominant. Our Southern border was safe and secure. Not anymore. “People want go back to those days of American prosperity again. “So, it is time to turn the page from the disastrous policies of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. “Republicans will work to lower prices, to unleash American energy, and to get this nation back on track.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-wyoming-delegation-urges-usda-to-support-local-wildfire-recovery-efforts/,Wyoming Delegation Urges USDA to Support Local Wildfire Recovery Efforts,2024-09-06,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis as well as U.S. Representative Harriet Hageman (all R-Wyo.) sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) urging approval of a disaster designation request in response to the devastating wildfires across the state. Having a formal disaster designation in place gives Governor Mark Gordon and the state of Wyoming access to federal resources and disaster relief programs for the impacted areas and industries. In the letter, the delegation emphasized the immense damage suffered and its implications for Wyoming’s agricultural production. The delegation expressed strong support for Gov. Gordon’s disaster designation request and urged the USDA to allow for regulatory flexibility while Wyoming’s agricultural infrastructure is rebuilt. “Wyoming has faced an extremely damaging fire season with more than half a million acres lost. The total number of fires so far in Wyoming this year is 522 with 24 being larger than 1,000 acres,” the delegation wrote. “A disproportionate amount of the area burned so far has occurred on private lands that are being used for agricultural production. As you consider this request, we urge you to consider the profound impact the disaster designation will have in sustaining Wyoming’s producers and agricultural community.” Full text of the letter can be found here. Dear Secretary Vilsack, Today, we are writing you in support of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Secretarial disaster designation request from Governor Mark Gordon due to the unprecedented wildfire losses Wyoming experienced in the 2024 fire season. Wyoming has faced an extremely damaging fire season with more than half a million acres lost. The total number of fires so far in Wyoming this year is 522 with 24 being larger than 1,000 acres. A disproportionate amount of the area burned so far has occurred on private lands that are being used for agricultural production. As you consider this request, we urge you to consider the profound impact the disaster designation will have in sustaining Wyoming’s producers and agricultural community. One significant example of the devastation occurring in Wyoming is the House Draw Fire in Johnson County, which has burned more than 170,000 acres. Approximately 84% of these acres is privately owned while the remainder is a combination of the Bureau of Land Management administered lands and State of Wyoming Trust lands. Presently this fire is 94% contained and expenditure will go above $25 million. This fire has resulted in the destruction of at least 590 miles of fence, numerous stock tanks, livestock forage, and sadly, livestock themselves. We believe similar statistics will emerge during the loss determination process for the other large wildfires in Eastern and Northern Wyoming in particular. We would also ask for your consideration for allowing maximum program flexibility due to the nature of Wyoming’s agriculture. For example, the impacted area is home to more than 35,000 sheep for which the wildlife friendly fencing standards of Natural Resource Conservation Service prohibit effective containment for some situations. Due to the amount of fencing lost in Wyoming this year, we would also support Governor Gordon’s request for your consideration of a waiver for the in-person inspection requirement for damaged fencing along with any other streamlined review processes that could expedite the rebuilding of so much fence. Finally, any leeway you could provide with respect to payment limitations or adjusted gross income limits for program eligibility would be appreciated as Wyoming is home to the largest average size agricultural operation in the country which could inadvertently exclude producers whom cannot afford needed restoration. We believe the availability of the Emergency Environmental Quality Incentives Program would be a significant help in our efforts to recover from these fires. Again, we request you carefully consider Wyoming’s request. It will have a profound impact on our state’s agricultural producers. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-slams-biden-harris-administrations-solar-plan/,Lummis Slams Biden-Harris Administration’s Solar Plan,2024-08-30,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— Today, Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) issued the following statement after the Biden-Harris administration issued its updated solar plan which makes 31 million acres throughout the west, including in Wyoming, available for solar development. “The Biden-Harris administration is hellbent on destroying the western way of life by closing off access to public lands for oil and gas drilling, grazing, recreation and industries our states rely on to stay afloat, all in the name of climate extremism. It is outrageous that this same administration that wants to greatly limit access for most industries on federal lands now wants to drastically increase the amount of land available for solar energy development. It is time for this administration to stop picking winners and losers and prioritize multiple use of federal lands as is required under existing laws,” said Lummis. The solar plan adds five additional states, including Wyoming, Washington, Idaho, Montana and Oregon, to the 2012 Obama-era Western Solar Plan. That plan prioritized solar development in Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:32Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/barrasso-lummis-slam-blms-latest-land-grab-proposal-in-wyoming/,"Barrasso, Lummis Slam BLM’s Latest Land Grab Proposal in Wyoming",2024-08-22,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S.Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, both R-WY, released the following statements in response to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM)’s misguided Rock Springs Draft Resource Management Plan (RMP). “The Biden-Harris administration is pushing Wyoming off an economic cliff with nothing more than a tattered parachute,” said Barrasso. “The Rock Springs Resource Management Plan strangles responsible natural resource development. This plan isn’t designed to manage Wyoming’s natural resources. It is designed to suffocate them. While I’m grateful for the efforts of those on the ground in Wyoming who worked to improve the original proposal, the plan unveiled today directly jeopardizes Wyoming’s economy and our way of life.” “The Biden-Harris administration has made it abundantly clear that it is far more focused on appealing to radical environmentalists than supporting western communities,” said Lummis. “The BLM’s recently announced Rock Springs Resource Management Plan is only the latest in a series of land grabs that punishes Wyoming and the entire west. Locking up lands in southwestern Wyoming will deliver a seismic blow to Wyoming’s economy, devastating our communities and further emboldening unelected bureaucrats in Washington to prioritize political pandering over the economic and environmental stability of the region. In brazenly bypassing over a decade’s worth of knowledge from local experts and stakeholders, this administration not only punishes the state of Wyoming but jeopardizes America’s energy independence and our national security.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:32Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-cosponsors-bipartisan-legislation-to-halt-the-flood-of-illicit-packages-into-the-united-states/,Lummis Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Halt the Flood of Illicit Packages Into the United States,2024-08-14,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) announced bipartisan legislation to help Customs and Border Protection (CBP) stop the flow of illicit goods, including fentanyl, counterfeits and products made with forced labor, into the country by tightening import requirements for low-value packages. This legislation is an important first step in addressing the fentanyl crisis plaguing Wyoming communities. “Whether through the southwest border or in packages mailed into the United States, China is using any tool available to get illicit drugs across our border,” said Lummis. “It is time for CBP to crack down on shipments from China to ensure drugs and products made using slave labor are encountered before making it into our communities.” In recent years, the number of direct-to-consumer shipments from foreign corporate giants like Shein and Temu into the U.S. has quadrupled. These retailers are abusing a customs process called “de minimis” entry, which allows packages under $800 to enter the country tariff-free and under a streamlined process. As the volume of packages has increased, CBP has struggled to effectively target shipments and keep out packages containing illicit drugs, counterfeits, products made with forced labor and other goods that voilate U.S. law. The Fighting Illicit Goods, Helping Trustworthy Importers, and Netting Gains (FIGHTING) for America Act would tighten the rules for de minimis entry and help CBP more effectively stop unlawful imports. The legislation would ensure that Chinese corporate giants cannot use the de minimis process to avoid paying tariffs on textiles, shoes and apparel or evade trade penalties imposed because of Chinese trade cheating. Reducing the overall volume of low-value packages entering under de minimis would promote enforcement of U.S. trade laws and level the playing field for U.S. manufacturers and works. For text of the bill, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:32Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-introduces-legislation-to-preserve-national-security-prevent-the-chinese-communist-party-from-purchasing-american-land/,"Lummis Introduces Legislation to Preserve National Security, Prevent the Chinese Communist Party from Purchasing American Land",2024-08-14,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) led three of her Senate Western Caucus colleagues in introducing the No American Land for Communist China Act to prevent the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from purchasing land adjacent to federal lands. This legislation will protect Wyoming and other western states from the threat of the CCP buying up lands next to federal lands which could harm critical mineral and energy production taking place on those lands. “The people of Wyoming should not have to worry about the CCP buying up western land in order to spy on the federal government or undermine our domestic energy and critical mineral production,” said Lummis. “Allowing foreign adversaries to purchase our land is like welcoming a fox into the hen house, and I am introducing this legislation to preserve our national security and prevent the CCP from acquiring American land to spy on our government.” “The people of Wyoming work hard each day to protect and manage lands throughout our state. Wyoming and the West are the center of critical energy and mineral production for our nation. We cannot open the door to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and put our domestic energy production at risk,” said Barrasso. “Letting the CCP buy up and use our western lands is dangerous, reckless, and a serious threat to our national, economic, and energy security.” “Allowing the CCP to purchase western lands poses a plethora of risks including threats to our national security and encroachment on America’s natural resources. This legislation protects Idaho and our western neighbors from threats seen and unseen,” said Crapo. “The purchase of American land by the Chinese Communist Party drains our country of resources and puts our national security at risk. We should not allow anyone affiliated with the CCP to own a single inch of American soil,” said Cotton. “The Chinese Communist Party is at our doorstep, and we best not let them in,” said Newhouse. “I have been closely watching the rise in cases of theCCP’s attempts at undermining our institutions. From spying on sensitive national security sites to buying up American farmland, it is clear we are vulnerable to their malicious efforts. This bill strengthens our domestic defenses and protects critical federal lands against these foreign actors that aim to deepen their already dangerous influence on the world stage. I thank Senator Lummis for introducing the Senate version of my legislation.” This legislation prohibits any agent or business affiliated with the CCP from purchasing land adjacent to federal land in the United States. Senate Western Caucus members Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY), Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) cosponsored this legislation. House Western Caucus Chair Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the companion bill in the U.S. House of Representatives. Full text of the legislation can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:32Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-lummis-join-senate-republicans-in-demanding-biden-harris-admin-immediately-deliver-weapons-to-israel/,"Barrasso, Lummis Join Senate Republicans in Demanding Biden-Harris Admin Immediately Deliver Weapons to Israel",2024-08-02,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, both R-Wyo., joined Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and their Senate Republican colleagues in sending a letter to the Biden-Harris administration to protest its partial arms embargo against Israel. In the letter, the senators urged the White House to immediately deliver the necessary weapons to Israel to defend themselves, cease accommodations to Iran, and stop putting the lives of American servicemembers at risk. “This weekend, Hezbollah fired Iranian-made missiles into northern Israel, murdering 12 children and injuring dozens in the single deadliest attack on that part of the country since October 7 … while Tehran financed the attack and Hezbollah conducted it, your fear of escalation has left Israel exposed and our enemies emboldened,” the senators wrote. “We write once again to protest your administration’s partial arms embargo against Israel. The actions of the Biden-Harris administration run counter to our long history of robust military cooperation with Israel and cast doubt upon the reliability of the United States as a long-term security partner,” the senators continued. “Your stalling tactics are endangering our greatest ally in the Middle East and jeopardizing the lives of our American servicemembers stationed in the region.” Full text of the letter can be found here. Dear President Biden: This weekend, Hezbollah fired Iranian-made missiles into northern Israel, murdering 12 children and injuring dozens in the single deadliest attack on that part of the country since October 7. The ultimate responsibility for this attack rests with Hezbollah and the ayatollahs in Iran. However, while Tehran financed the attack and Hezbollah conducted it, your fear of escalation has left Israel exposed and our enemies emboldened. We write once again to protest your administration’s partial arms embargo against Israel. The actions of the Biden-Harris administration run counter to our long history of robust military cooperation with Israel and cast doubt upon the reliability of the United States as a long-term security partner. Your actions also violate the will of Congress as expressed in the recent supplemental that funded emergency military support to Israel. When Prime Minister Netanyahu publicly raised the weapons hold in June, your administration adamantly denied the accusation. You ignored Congressional inquiries, including a May 6, 2024, letter from Senator Marshall, a May 6, 2024, letter from Senator Ernst, a May 14, 2024, letter from Senator Risch and a June 20, 2024, letter from Senator Cotton. All the while, you were deliberately delaying the delivery of weapons, ammunition, and equipment to Israel. These include 120 mm tank ammunition, 120 mm mortar ammunition, light tactical vehicles, air-to-air missiles, F-15s, F-35 engines, joint direct attack munition kits, 2,000 pound bombs, rifles, and guided missile systems. While your administration delays, Hamas continues to wage war against Israel, the Houthis continue to attack in the Red Sea, and Hezbollah continues its onslaught in northern Israel. Your stalling tactics are endangering our greatest ally in the Middle East and jeopardizing the lives of our American servicemembers stationed in the region. We urge you to use every available emergency authority to expedite the physical delivery of all weapons and ammunition to Israel that have been approved by Congress. Your administration must stop accommodating Iran and its terrorist allies now. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:32Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-republicans-will-get-america-back-on-track/,Barrasso: Republicans Will Get America Back on Track,2024-08-02,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"“What do Americans want? Lower prices and secure borders. What are the Democrats? The Party of High Prices and Open Borders.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) recently spoke on the Senate floor about Vice President Kamala Harris’s dangerously liberal track record of high prices and open borders. Senator Barrasso compared her failures with Senate Republican solutions to get America back on track. Click here to watch Senator Barrasso’s full remarks. Senator Barrasso’s Remarks: “Last week, Mr. Biden gave what many consider his Farewell Address. Americans are eager to say farewell – and in many ways, good riddance – to Joe Biden and the policies that he brought along with the Democrats upon our country. It’s been a record of ruin. “When Americans look at the state of the nation today, they don’t like what they see. Three out of four Americans will tell you the country is heading in the wrong direction. “Prices are 20% higher than they were when Joe Biden and Kamala Harris came into office. People are forced to cut back, forced to decide whether they can fill their gas tanks or their grocery carts. According to CNN, nearly 40% of all Americans say they worry they can’t pay their bills. “So how did we get here? Democrats passed trillions of dollars in reckless and radical and runaway spending. “It was so unpopular as a proposal – and Congress heard from the American people how unpopular it was – it was so unpopular that at a point it was tied, the vote, and then they had to bring in someone to break the tie. “Who was that person who cast that tie-breaking vote that brought us 40-year high inflation, the highest prices in 40 years for which so many people suffer today? That person was Vice President Kamala Harris. “That’s right. Vice President Harris, who is now the nominee of the Democrat Party running for president. She is the one that came into this chamber to cast the vote to break the tie that fueled the highest prices that we continue to experience today. “We also have a very long, national nightmare occurring at our southern border. That is yet another result of the dangerously liberal agenda of Vice President Harris. “We had a secure border four years ago. Then, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris came into the White House. Biden and Harris canceled the border wall. Biden-Harris canceled remain in Mexico. They replaced detain and deport with catch and release. “President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris presided over an invasion of our southern border by 10 million illegal immigrants. Since the time Vice President Harris was appointed as Border Czar, millions and millions of illegal immigrants have come into the country. Millions and millions of more known got-aways hiding from authorities have gotten into this country. In total we’re looking at 10 million illegal immigrants now in our communities. “Many communities across this country are overrun and overwhelmed. Yet Joe Biden and Kamala Harris don’t seem to care. They don’t seem to care about the drugs and the death and the destruction that are harming American families from coast to coast. “Vice President Harris has a view of border security that to me is particularly twisted and tortured. Here is her view, as she stated it. “Basically, if you’re an illegal immigrant, you’re not a criminal, according to Kamala Harris. But if you are an agent of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, ICE, in her words, you’re comparable to the Ku Klux Klan. That’s from the Vice President of the United States. “She also believes this: if you’re illegal immigrant, you’re entitled to free health care. If an American citizen, she proposes that you would actually you lose your ability to choose your health care and private health care would be eliminated. No private health care for American citizens, who would then be forced to pay for health care for illegal immigrants. “That is the view of the Vice President of the United States, and now the candidate for President by the Democrat Party. It is ignorant. It is insulting. And it is out of touch. “If her views are America’s policy, millions and millions more illegal immigrants will continue to flood across our southern border. It’s a magnet drawing people in. “It wasn’t that way four years ago under the Trump administration. Back then, paychecks rose, prices were in check, and poverty fell at record rates. America was energy independent. Gas prices were affordable. Our border was safe and was secure. “None of that is true today. Not under this administration or these policies of the Biden-Harris administration. “Democrats and this administration, at this time in our country, will always be known as the Party of High Prices and Open Borders. Most Americans believe that our country is on the wrong track, and I believe most Americans are right. We are on the wrong track. “There’s good news, and that’s that America can get back on track. We can get back on track with common sense policies, policies that work, policies the American people are asking for. “Senate Republicans have solutions to the most pressing problems that are facing the American public today. “First, we’re going to address the number one issue facing Americans. Americans will tell you the number one issue they’re concerned about, that’s the economy, the cost of things. We’re going to make life more affordable for all families. That starts with making us energy dominant again and lowering the cost of energy. Republicans will put a stop to Democrats’ punishing, political regulations that are just coming at us like a tidal wave since the day this administration began. We will end America’s dependence on Communist China. We will strengthen American manufacturing, and we will put American workers and businesses first. “Republicans also have solutions that will make our communities safer. Republicans will secure the border. We will finish the wall. Republicans will restore a program that worked called Remain in Mexico. This will stop the flood of illegal immigrants and the flow of deadly drugs. “Republicans support our police officers, and we stand against the deadly defund the police movement – the very movement that Kamala Harris and Democrats proudly support. Kamala Harris actually came into this chamber to break the tie for radical nominees by this administration, a number of whom support defunding the police. That’s the stand and that’s the policy of the Biden-Harris administration. “Abroad, Republicans will restore America’s commitment to peace through strength. Here in the Senate, Republicans will protect our institutions and protect the rule of law. We firmly reject Democrats’ plans to pack the court and rig the elections. “These are solutions that unite Americans. “Joe Biden is leaving behind a catastrophic record of ruin. We cannot afford four more years of these policies. Yet what we see is Vice President Harris and Democrats want to nationalize the dangerously liberal policies of San Francisco Democrats. And that’s what she is, a very liberal, dangerous San Francisco Democrat. That’s her history. “Now, her voting record in the United States Senate, she was voted the most liberal member of the United States Senate. More liberal than Bernie Sanders. The most liberal of 100 United States Senators. “What we see is that, as Vice President and now presidential nominee, she wants to bring the California nightmare of high taxes, high crime, and no accountability to every household in America. These policies would crush the middle class. “What do Americans want? Lower prices and secure borders. What are the Democrats? The Party of High Prices and Open Borders. “Senate Republicans will lower Democrats’ wallet-wrecking high prices. Senate Republicans will work to secure our wide-open border, and we’ll work to keep Americans safe at home as well as abroad. “There is no question that Republicans are committed to get America back on track.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:32Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-newhouse-introduce-legislation-to-overturn-biden-harris-administrations-burdensome-environmental-justice-initiatives/,"Lummis, Newhouse Introduce Legislation to Overturn Biden-Harris Administration’s Burdensome Environmental Justice Initiatives",2024-08-02,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Congressional Western Caucus Chair Dan Newhouse (WA-04) introduced the Reducing Environmental Gamesmanship (REGS) Act to prohibit federal agencies from forcing the Biden-Harris administration’s radical environmental justice initiatives on the west by nullifying two executive orders. “The Biden-Harris administration has made it crystal clear that it will do anything to appease its radical environmental base, even at the expense of Wyoming and the American west,” said Lummis. “Wyoming households continue to shell out record amounts of their hard-earned money to keep up with this administration’s self-inflicted high energy costs at a time when they’re already spending more to keep up with inflation. I am partnering with Rep. Newhouse to overturn this administration’s radical agenda to ease the financial strain this administration has put on western communities and scale back the executive branch’s self-awarded power.” “‘Environmental justice’ is another ploy by extreme activists to block traditional energy and infrastructure projects and force a green transition,” said Newhouse. “The reality is that if this agenda is put in place, the very low-income communities the left is claiming to help would be overburdened by higher energy costs. I’m proud to partner with Senator Lummis to overturn the Biden Administration’s environmental justice executive orders to help underserved communities and reclaim Congress’ legislative authority post-Chevron doctrine.” Without direction from Congress, the Biden administration has decided that 40% of the funding from certain federal programs must go to “disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.” President Biden has said the “pursuit of environmental justice is a duty of all executive branch agencies and that federal agencies should be taking action now to incorporate this charge into their missions,” despite the fact that such authority lies with Congress. The Biden-Harris administration’s environmental justice initiatives have exacerbated permitting delays, creating even more red tape and delaying environmental cleanup. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act created a program for orphan well plugging with clear, set guidelines for eligibility. However, as part of its environmental justice initiative, the Department of the Interior requires states to include environmental justice activities in their applications, in clear violation of congressional intent and rendering the program infeasible for many states while delaying the cleanup of orphan wells. In light of the Supreme Court’s ruling in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, which ended the Chevron doctrine, Chairs Newhouse and Lummis introduced this legislation to reclaim Congress’ authority.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:32Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-bill-prevents-who-from-spending-american-tax-dollars-on-pandemic-treaties/,Barrasso Bill Prevents WHO from Spending American Tax Dollars on Pandemic Treaties,2024-08-01,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) introduced legislation to prevent the World Health Organization (WHO) from repeating its egregious pandemic failures. This bill would prohibit the WHO from using American taxpayer dollars on partisan international pandemic treaties without approval by the United States Senate. The Defending American Sovereignty in Global Pandemics Act would stop the United States from entering any international agreement, convention, or instrument under the WHO related to pandemic prevention or response without ratification by the Senate. Additionally, the WHO would be prohibited from spending U.S. funds on such agreements until it is ratified by the Senate. “The World Health Organization’s (WHO) mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic was inexcusable,” said Barrasso. “Their blatant partisanship and incompetence inflicted lasting harm on our country’s health and economy. We cannot grant the WHO the authority to spend Americans’ hard-earned tax dollars on another failed pandemic response.” Co-sponsors of this legislation include U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Roger Marshall (R-Kans.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.). Background: Senator Barrasso co-signed a letter to President Biden urging him to withdraw U.S. support for two international agreements that would strengthen the WHO’s power to declare public health emergencies and expand their authority over member states. Senator Barrasso is an original co-sponsor of S.444, the No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act and S.Res.81, the WHO Pandemic Treaty Implementation Resolution. Full text of the legislation can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:32Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-senate-unanimously-passes-barrasso-resolution-condemning-assassination-attempt-of-donald-trump/,Senate Unanimously Passes Barrasso Resolution Condemning Assassination Attempt of Donald Trump,2024-08-01,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) introduced a resolution formally condemning the attempted assassination of President Donald J. Trump on July 13, 2024. The bipartisan resolution passed the U.S. Senate by unanimous consent. The bipartisan resolution also honors Corey Comperatore, who died protecting his family at the rally, as well as David Dutch and James Copenhaver, who were critically injured. The resolution calls for unity and civility across the country. “On July 13, our nation witnessed a horrifying assassination attempt on President Trump. Our country was inches away from a catastrophic event that would have changed the course of our history,” said Senator Barrasso. “Today, the United States Senate came together in condemning this horrifying act against a former president and current Republican candidate for president. “We also honor the life of a brave American, Corey Comperatore, who did not hesitate to give his life protecting his family. We honor David Dutch and James Copenhaver, who were both critically injured. Americans deserve to attend political events and exercise their rights without fear for their lives. Congress is determined to find answers and ensure this never happens again,” continued Senator Barrasso. Co-sponsors of this resolution include U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Deb Fisher (R-Neb.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), John Kennedy (R-La.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Jerry Moran (R-Kans.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), JD Vance (R-Ohio), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.), Ed Markey (D- Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). Full text of the resolution can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:32Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/barrasso-lummis-lead-legislation-to-simplify-arduous-grant-application-process/,"Barrasso, Lummis Lead Legislation to Simplify Arduous Grant Application Process",2024-08-01,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced the USDA Grant Simplification Act to create a standardized “short form” grant application for United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) grants for rural municipalities and political subdivisions whose primary concern is management and maintenance of infrastructure. This would make it much easier for Wyoming communities to apply for federal funds. “Washington’s overburdensome application process is holding Wyoming’s rural communities back from getting the important funding they need,” said Barrasso. “Wyoming and other rural states will benefit greatly from a shorter, more simplified process. This important bill I joined with Senator Lummis will streamline the application process and ensure Wyoming communities have better access to these vital grant programs.” “The most rural portions of Wyoming are often the areas most in need of federal funding, yet few small communities have the manpower to sift through the federal government’s lengthy grant application process,” said Lummis. “In order to ensure Wyoming’s smallest communities have access to the federal funding they need, I have partnered with Senator Barrasso to streamline the grant application process and remove unnecessary roadblocks for the Cowboy State’s smallest communities.” This legislation directs the Secretary of Agriculture to create a “short-form” version of grant applications for rural communities and entities no later than 180 days after enactment to be made available for incorporated municipalities, tribal areas and territories with populations under 10,000 residents. This short-form application would also be available for local entities such as water districts, irrigation districts, road and bridge districts, and fire districts. It also directs the secretary to solicit input from a representative group of rural communities concerning issues such as length of grant applications, information requested for applications and applicability of questions and materials requested of rural communities and provides the secretary an additional 90 days to identify grants most in need of short-form applications.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:32Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-leads-bill-to-preserve-second-amendment-rights-for-law-abiding-wyoming-citizens/,Lummis Leads Bill to Preserve Second Amendment Rights for Law-Abiding Wyoming Citizens,2024-08-01,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— Today, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced legislation to shield law-abiding gun owners in Wyoming from Democrats’ blatant Second Amendment infringements. The Lawful Purpose and Historical Firearms Act not only protects the people of Wyoming’s right to own and use firearms for lawful purposes but preserves our nation’s firearms heritage by allowing museums and researchers to have access to a wide variety of weaponry to display for the public. “Wyoming is home to some of the most impressive firearm museums in the country, yet the Biden-Harris administration’s latest attack on our Second Amendment rights threatens to limit museums’ access to certain historical weapons and would allow important parts of our history to be lost,” said Lummis. “The Second Amendment could not be clearer, and we have a responsibility to protect law-abiding Wyoming citizens and museums from this administration’s gun-grabbing policies.” “This critical legislation would serve as a firewall against future anti-gun administrations bypassing Congress and imposing gun control measures,” said Randy Kozuch, Executive Director of the NRA Institute for Legislative Action (NRA-ILA). “Senator Lummis’ bill would also ensure that all lawful purposes, including self-defense, would have to be given due consideration and respect in the administration of federal law. On behalf of our millions of members nationwide, we thank Senator Lummis for taking the lead on these important and necessary reforms.” “Not many people know that non-government museums are bound by firearms laws in the United States,” said Ashley Hlebinsky, Executive Director of the Firearms Research Center at the University of Wyoming. “As a result, many historically significant artifacts are destroyed because they cannot be legally possessed by non-governmental entities. No matter where one sits on the political debate regarding firearms, a desire to preserve our nation’s history should be universal. Artifacts connect us to a time and place and we learn, for better or worse, who we are, and who we want to be. It’s exciting to see a bill seeking to allow respected institutions to be stewards of those collections in perpetuity.” The Lawful Purpose and Historical Firearms Act would: Eliminate most restrictions in federal firearms laws that require a “sporting purpose,” which is inconsistent with the Second Amendment. Require the federal government to allow firearms to be imported into the United States under most conditions, so long as they do not come from a country with which the United States has historically denied import licenses (e.g., an embargo). Enable the return of historical American firearms (like the M1 Garand) which were lent to foreign governments like South Korea during the Cold War, allowing their eventual sale to veterans, shooting clubs and all Americans with an interest in these firearms. President Trump enabled the return of thousands of M1 Garands from the Philippines in 2018 after their return was blocked by President Obama. Exempts museums from paying a transfer tax under the National Firearms Act on machine guns, suppressors, short-barreled rifles and other similar weapons so long as the firearm is intended for public display, research purposes or preservation as a historical artifact. Prevents shotguns, shotgun shells and certain other large-caliber rifles from being classified as “destructive devices” under the National Firearms Act.” Eliminates the vast majority of import restrictions for most firearms (other than machine guns). Permits the temporary interstate loan or rental of a firearm for all lawful purposes.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:41:32Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-crapo-lead-letter-blasting-irs-power-grab/,"Barrasso, Crapo Lead Letter Blasting IRS Power Grab",2024-07-31,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) and Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Finance, led their colleagues in a letter to Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Danny Werfel blasting the IRS for wasting taxpayer dollars on an illegitimate and unnecessary direct file tax preparation program. In the letter, the senators highlight how this program was never authorized by Congress and is a massive expansion of the power of the IRS. “We write with serious concerns regarding your agency’s recent unilateral and unauthorized action to create a permanent Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Direct File tax preparation program… The American people do not want an all-encompassing IRS acting simultaneously as the tax collector, tax auditor, tax enforcer, and tax preparer,” the senators wrote. “Taxpayers already have access to numerous free tax-filing options and dozens of national non-profit entities offer tax preparation services at no cost…The IRS does not have unlimited resources and should focus on improving information technology systems, data privacy, and long-standing customer service issues.” Co-signers include U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), John Kennedy (R-La.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.). Full text of the letter can be found below: Dear Commissioner Werfel, We write with serious concerns regarding your agency’s recent unilateral and unauthorized action to create a permanent Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Direct File tax preparation program. Despite numerous problems and objections from members of Congress, the IRS announced the launch of its permanent Direct File program on May 30, 2024. This program was not authorized by Congress and is a massive and ill-advised expansion of the power of the IRS. The recent ruling of the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo calls into question administrative actions that go beyond the clear intent of Congress. The IRS was not authorized to launch a new tax preparation program, despite legislation to do so having been previously introduced. It was given the narrow authority and funds to study the feasibility of a Direct File program. Public Law 117-169, which was jammed through Congress on a partisan basis, gave the IRS $15 million to conduct an unbiased study that would examine the feasibility, taxpayer interest, and cost of a Direct File tax return system. Instead, the IRS hired a partisan think tank and professor, who were already on record as being supportive of a Direct File program. Immediately following the completion of the study, the IRS moved forward with a Direct File “pilot” program to prepare tax returns for the 2024 filing season. Now, in the face of widespread concerns and criticism, the IRS has decided to make this temporary and experimental program into a permanent government tax preparation scheme. The American people do not want an all-encompassing IRS acting simultaneously as the tax collector, tax auditor, tax enforcer, and tax preparer. Serious legal questions exist about the IRS Direct File launch. Many of these issues have been raised in congressional letters, statements, and inquiries. Notably, the Attorneys General from 13 states raised their concerns about the Direct File program in a letter to the administration saying, “Treasury’s attempt to establish an IRS-run Direct File system side-steps Congress’ constitutional authority and the will of the American people by unilaterally establishing a new government program and further empowering an IRS that has repeatedly targeted some of the most vulnerable taxpayers.” We, as elected lawmakers, share the same view. On top of these serious legal concerns, we also have policy and implementation concerns about Direct File. For example, despite rhetoric from the agency and proponents of Direct File, as well as a sustained media and outreach campaign, the initial pilot program fell short of its target metrics. Less than 140,000 taxpayers utilized the program, far short of the expected 300,000 participants – and even further short of the potential user pool. Of the estimated 19 million eligible tax filers from 12 selected states, only 0.7% of taxpayers utilized the program. Additionally, the IRS Direct File program is not adequately equipped to support tax returns for the tens of millions of Americans who have anything other than extremely basic returns. For example, Direct File excluded many categories of taxpayers, such as those who own their own businesses, collect income from property and investment, or work as independent contractors, such as ride-share drivers and delivery workers. Further, Direct File is not fully integrated with state-level tax filings, forcing taxpayers to file state and local taxes with other providers (or by paper). This resulted in Direct File participants having to spend more time and additional resources to complete their tax filing this season. Under an expanded and permanent program, this particular issue would be exacerbated. This is one reason why 21 state financial officers, representing 18 different states, penned a letter to the IRS and Department of Treasury pushing back on the Direct File program. They wrote, “We urge you to terminate Direct File following the current pilot program, as Direct File will create challenges for taxpayers and state treasurers and the costs of Direct File far outweigh any potential benefits it may confer to taxpayers. Regrettably, Direct File is a solution in search of a problem.” There are also questions and concerns regarding the actual cost, and cost estimates, of the program. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), in an assessment of the IRS Direct File pilot program said, “…when we asked the IRS for documentation supporting how it arrived at these various cost estimates, it could not provide us with any. As such, we could not evaluate if the IRS’s cost estimates were reasonable.” The Government Accountability Office (GAO) agreed with TIGTA’s assessment. The GAO concluded the pilot was not capturing information that would improve the IRS’ cost/benefit analyses of Direct File. The IRS, by its own estimate, believes the Direct File program could cost in excess of $249 million annually. This is in contrast with various successful free filing options offered or supported by the private sector which impose no cost on taxpayers. Other government websites and platforms of similar magnitude and complexity have cost taxpayers billions of dollars, such as the Obamacare enrollment system which was subject to numerous failures and crashes. As the IRS seeks to expand the Direct File program and displace free private sector options, we believe the costs associated with the program would skyrocket. Taxpayers already have access to numerous free tax-filing options and dozens of national non-profit entities offer tax preparation services at no cost. More than 30 million taxpayers annually utilize these services, which are far more effective. The IRS does not have unlimited resources and should focus on improving information technology systems, data privacy, and long-standing customer service issues. It should not be focused on unilaterally expanding its own power, without congressional approval, through a permanent government tax preparation scheme that is unnecessary, problematic, costly, and illegitimate. We request written responses to the following questions no later than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 14, 2024: 1. What is the specific statutory basis for the IRS launching and maintaining a permanent Direct File program? a. How does this cited authority demonstrate Congress’ clear intent that the IRS permanently undertake such a program? b. How does the IRS respond to the claim that the recent ruling from SCOTUS (Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo) reaches situations of administrative overreach, like the unilateral creation of a Direct File program? 2. What funds does the IRS believe Congress specifically appropriated for the purpose of launching and maintaining a Direct File tax system? 3. Did the IRS reallocate or otherwise redirect funds obligated to or originally anticipated to be spent on other programs and initiatives, like Taxpayer Services, to pay for the creation of the pilot and permanent Direct File programs? a. If so, please provide information detailing how much funding and which accounts the money was shifted from, as well as which accounts money will be shifted from in the future. 5. The IRS claims the Direct File pilot program was a success despite TIGTA’s report from June 25, 2024, which found that the IRS met only three of seven of its self-identified key requirements for Phase A of the Direct File pilot program. GAO also found that the pilot would not collect data to adequately inform cost/benefit analyses of the IRS running a Direct File program. How could the IRS claim its program launch was a success when it fell short on key metrics and requirements, or that its reviews of the merits of the initiative are reasonable when both government oversight agencies tasked with reviewing the IRS have flagged them as fundamentally flawed? 6. What is the IRS doing to address concerns raised by 21 state financial officers who believe taxpayers might be harmed from the impact the Direct File program will have on state and local tax filing? a. How will the IRS address the scope of the Direct File program to interact properly with the state and local tax filing process across numerous tax jurisdictions? 7. The IRS has repeatedly sidestepped concerns about the inherent conflicts of interest in operating a Direct File program, many of which have been previously raised with you publicly (including in unanswered questions for the record to you from your last hearing with the Senate Finance Committee) and privately. To hone a few of these: 8. Does the IRS have plans to expand the scope of its Direct File program for taxpayers filing returns for pass-through business income or corporate income? Thank you in advance for your attention to this matter and your prompt response to our questions. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-introduces-strategic-bitcoin-reserve-legislation/,Lummis Introduces Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Legislation,2024-07-31,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following her announcement of a historic proposal to supercharge the U.S. dollar and pay down the national debt by establishing a strategic Bitcoin reserve, today U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) officially introduced the Boosting Innovation, Technology and Competitiveness through Optimized Investment Nationwide (BITCOIN) Act in the U.S. Senate. “As families across Wyoming struggle to keep up with soaring inflation rates and our national debt reaches new and unprecedented heights, it is time for us to take bold steps to create a brighter future for generations to come by creating a strategic Bitcoin reserve,” said Lummis. “Bitcoin is transforming not only our country but the world and becoming the first developed nation to use Bitcoin as a savings technology secures our position as a global leader in financial innovation. This is our Louisiana Purchase moment that will help us reach the next financial frontier.” The BITCOIN Act establishes a strategic Bitcoin reserve to serve as an additional store of value to bolster America’s balance sheet and ensure the transparent management of Bitcoin holdings of the federal government. Specifically, the legislation would: Establish a decentralized network of secure Bitcoin vaults operated by the United States Department of Treasury with statutory requirements ensuring the highest level of physical and cybersecurity for the nation’s Bitcoin holdings. Implement a 1-million-unit Bitcoin purchase program over a set period of time to acquire a total stake of approximately 5% of total Bitcoin supply, mirroring the size and scope of gold reserves held by the United States. Be paid for by diversifying existing funds within the Federal Reserve System and Treasury Department. Affirm self-custody rights of private Bitcoin holders and emphasize that the strategic Bitcoin reserve shall not infringe upon individual financial freedoms.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-china-is-puppet-master-using-russia-iran-against-u-s/,"Barrasso: China is “Puppet Master” Using Russia, Iran against U.S.",2024-07-30,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"“I view China as the puppet master here pulling the strings with what’s happening in Iran and North Korea, as well as Russia.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – At today’s Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) questioned Deputy Secretary Kurt Campbell of the U.S. Department of State on the Biden administration’s failure to prevent China’s use of adversarial countries to weaken American dominance. Senator Barrasso outlined how the Biden administration has allowed China to evade U.S. sanctions and support America’s adversaries by purchasing Russian and Iranian oil. Barrasso also discussed China’s potential strategic use of these adversarial countries to obtain control over Taiwan. Deputy Secretary Campbell testified at today’s Senate Committee on Foreign Relations hearing on Strategic Competition with the PRC: Assessing Competitiveness Beyond the Indo-Pacific. On China Helping America’s Adversaries Evade Oil Sanctions “We had a briefing last week that many of us attended on the committee on who’s helping Russia and what roles there are in that. I wanted to go along that area of questioning because I’m concerned about China’s support for our adversaries. “It’s clear China is actively helping both Russia and Iran evade U.S. sanctions. “In fact, oil revenues from China are propping up Russian and Iranian economies. They get to buy them at a discount, so China benefits from that. And then Iran and Russia get the money from China. “I view China as using Russia as a wrecking ball. “Iran, right now, is exporting almost 1.3 million barrels of oil to China every day when there are supposed to be sanctions in place. The Treasury Secretary says, ‘well, they can’t do any more,’ but the New York Times pointed out just how much oil that the U.S. is allowing and the sanctions that are being evaded. “The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is providing the materials, the technology, the components that Russia and Iran need to wage their wars. “It just seems to me the administration has failed to prevent China from purchasing Russian and Iranian energy resources. Do you agree?” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on China helping American adversaries. On China Using America’s Adversaries to Obtain Control of Taiwan “I view China as the puppet master here pulling the strings with what’s happening in Iran and North Korea, as well as Russia in their efforts. “The concern is that with our involvement in a number of locations around the world – whether it’s with Ukraine, whether it’s in Israel – that this is an effort by China to ultimately have us engaged in a number of places and ultimately make it easier for them to take Taiwan, which I believe is one of their single goals.” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on China’s strategy to take Taiwan. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-mullin-legislation-to-make-the-bald-eagle-the-national-bird-passes-the-senate/,Lummis & Mullin Legislation to Make the Bald Eagle the National Bird Passes the Senate,2024-07-29,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) announced their bill to designate the bald eagle as the national bird passed the Senate. “For more than 240 years, the bald eagle has been synonymous with American values, yet it is still not officially our national bird,” said Lummis. “Today’s bipartisan passage brings us one step closer to solidifying the eagle’s place as an enduring symbol of our freedom, and I look forward to seeing this legislation pass the House and signed into law soon.” “I am thrilled our bill has just passed the U.S. Senate,” said Sen. Mullin. “The bald eagle is a strong symbol of patriotism for our nation, and it’s past time we make this designation official. Thank you to my colleagues in the Senate who supported it.” The bill passed the Senate unanimously. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (both D-MN) also co-led this legislation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-announces-revolutionary-proposal-to-supercharge-the-dollar-bolster-u-s-economy/,"Lummis Announces Revolutionary Proposal to Supercharge the Dollar, Bolster U.S. Economy",2024-07-27,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— Today, during Bitcoin 2024, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) announced a revolutionary proposal to supercharge the U.S. dollar by establishing a strategic Bitcoin reserve to fortify the dollar against rising inflation and cement U.S. leadership in the rapidly evolving global financial system. “Establishing a strategic Bitcoin reserve would firmly secure the dollar’s position as the world’s reserve currency into the 21st century and ensure we remain the world leader in financial innovation,” said Lummis. “Families across Wyoming and the U.S. are struggling to keep up with soaring inflation rates and record-breaking costs while our national debt reaches unprecedented levels; now more than ever, we need to create a brighter future for generations of Americans by diversifying into Bitcoin and securing our economic future.” The United States currently maintains strategic reserves in certain hard assets critical to American national security and independence such as gold and petroleum. Establishing a strategic Bitcoin reserve to bolster the U.S. dollar with a digital hard asset will secure our nation’s standing as the global financial leader for decades to come. This strategic Bitcoin reserve would be required to hold onto the Bitcoin for 20 years, the only thing it could be used to pay for during that time period is paying down our country’s national debt. Specifically, the legislation would: Establish a decentralized network of secure Bitcoin vaults operated by the United States Department of Treasury with statutory requirements ensuring the highest level of physical and cybersecurity for the nation’s Bitcoin holdings. Implement a 1-million-unit Bitcoin purchase program over a set period of time to acquire a total stake of approximately 5% of total Bitcoin supply, mirroring the size and scope of gold reserves held by the United States. Be paid for by diversifying existing funds within the Federal Reserve System and Treasury Department. Affirm self-custody rights of private Bitcoin holders and emphasize that the strategic Bitcoin reserve shall not infringe upon individual financial freedoms. The bill is expected to be introduced in the coming days with additional cosponsors to be announced.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/senate-western-caucus-members-voice-concerns-surrounding-proposed-osha-rule-change-impact-on-emergency-response-activities/,Senate Western Caucus Members Voice Concerns Surrounding Proposed OSHA Rule Change Impact on Emergency Response Activities,2024-07-26,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Vice Chair Sullivan (R-AK), and two of their Senate Western Caucus colleagues sent a letter to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Assistant Secretary Douglas Parker to urge him to consider the unintended consequences the administration’s new proposed “Emergency Response Standard” will have on volunteer EMS, firefighters, and wilderness search and rescue operations. “This one-sized-fits-all rule would be an incredible burden to the volunteer EMS, fire, and wilderness search and rescue in Wyoming and the west,” the senators wrote. “It would impose additional health and safety requirements that are not relevant to their daily operations and be financially straining for volunteer crews.” Senators John Barrasso (R-WY) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) consigned the letter. This rule replaces the fire brigade standard from 1980 and would make it impossible for volunteer crews to obtain the necessary training hours to meet these standards.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-senate-declares-july-27-national-day-of-the-american-cowboy/,Senate Declares July 27 National Day of the American Cowboy,2024-07-25,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a tribute to the hardworking men and women who shaped the traditions of the American West, the United States Senate has declared July 27, 2024, the National Day of the American Cowboy. The bipartisan resolution, which the Senate passed unanimously, was introduced by U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, both R-Wyo., along with their colleagues in the Senate. Started in 2005 by U.S. Senator Craig Thomas, the National Day of the American Cowboy traditionally coincides each year with Cheyenne Frontier Days. The resolution honors the culture, traditions and values of the American Cowboy way of life that are still alive today. “In Wyoming, we live each day by the Cowboy Code. We honor a life of honesty, hard work, and integrity,” said Senator Barrasso. “The American cowboy symbolizes the spirit, values and traditions the people of Wyoming cherish most. Each year, I look forward to celebrating this special day with our American cowboys and cowgirls in Wyoming.” “The American cowboy has been a well-known and longstanding symbol of honesty, grit and determination across the country,” said Senator Lummis. “On National Day of the American Cowboy, we celebrate the significant impact cowboys and cowgirls have had on our nation by honoring the enduring traditions the Cowboy State continues to hold so dear.” Other co-sponsors of the resolution include U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and Ted Cruz (R-Texas). Full text of the resolution can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-calls-on-leaders-to-affirm-americas-unwavering-commitment-to-israel/,Barrasso Calls on Leaders to Affirm America’s Unwavering Commitment to Israel,2024-07-24,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), chairman of the Senate Republican Conference and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, spoke today on the Senate floor following Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech to a Joint Meeting of Congress. Senator Barrasso affirmed his unwavering support for Israel in their effort to defeat Hamas and to bring the hostages home. Sen. Barrasso’s Remarks: “The Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, just delivered a historic speech to Congress. “This was the fourth time the Prime Minister has spoken to the United States Congress. That’s more than the late Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Winston Churchill. “Like Prime Minister Churchill, Prime Minister Netanyahu spoke of a battle between freedom and evil. He shared with us welcome news. And that news is that freedom is winning. “Israel is committed to bringing home the hostages, to protecting its citizens from the atrocities that occurred on the October 7th attack. “Meanwhile, the Hamas terrorist network is under more pressure than ever. Half of its senior leadership is dead. Its military chief has likely been eliminated. “Remember, Hamas is a terrorist group. It governs through fear and violence. “Hamas violently rejects the right of Israel to exist and the right of Jews to live in Israel. “Hamas hides behind civilians. It uses them as human shields. “Hamas stores its military weapons designed to kill in hospitals, in schools, and in homes. “Hamas has stolen billions of dollars of humanitarian aid to build its terror tunnel all around the area of the Gaza Strip. This is the same tunnel network where for 9 months and counting 116 hostages, including 8 American hostages, are being held by Hamas terrorists. “I stand firmly with Israel as Israel fights to finish the war and defeat Hamas. “Sadly, supporting Israel has grown more divisive in this country than I’ve ever seen. Today’s Democrats are abandoning our greatest ally in the Middle East. They are calling to put conditions on aid to Israel. “The Biden-Harris administration has delayed the delivery of war-winning weapons. The Senate Democrat Leader meddled in Israeli politics. He proclaimed in no uncertain terms on the floor of this body that Prime Minister Netanyahu should step down. “The senior senator from Vermont went even further. Last month, he declared that Prime Minister Netanyahu is a ‘war criminal.’ That accusation is disturbing, it is damaging, and it is dishonest. “If that weren’t bad enough, Vice President Harris skipped the Prime Minister’s speech entirely. The Vice President typically presides over joint sessions of Congress. With her snub to Israel, Vice President Harris is leading the Democrats’ Bibi Boycott. “Catering to the pro-Hamas wing of the Democrat Party is not serious leadership. Not at all. “The vice president now wants to be the Commander-in-Chief, yet she refuses to put politics aside and work with our indispensable ally. Her actions send a defeatist message to our enemies and a defeatist message to our allies alike. “This is a time when it is so critical for us to restore confidence in America. Here’s what we need to do and how to do it: We do it through Peace through Strength. With strong, steady, and serious support for Israel and for Israel’s right to exist. “What is the approach of President Biden today? What is the approach of Vice President Harris? And what is the approach of the Senate Democrats, members of this body? Is it to continue to appease our adversaries and abandon our friends? “This is a dangerous world. It is more dangerous under the failed policies of the Biden-Harris administration. America cannot continue down Democrats’ path of war and weakness. Keeping America safe requires America and Israel working together. We heard that today in the joint session of Congress. “Republicans believe in Israel’s mission to defeat Hamas. We understand fully what is at stake, and our support is firm. We must unite and bring back Peace through Strength. “Now more than ever, the American people need to stand with Israel. And I’m one of those people that will continue to stand with Israel.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-releases-orange-paper-highlighting-the-pitfalls-of-bidens-bitcoin-mining-tax-proposal/,Lummis Releases Orange Paper Highlighting the Pitfalls of Biden’s Bitcoin Mining Tax Proposal,2024-07-23,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— Today, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) released an “orange paper” in response to the Biden administration’s FY 2025 budget proposal requesting a new 30% “excise” tax on electricity for Bitcoin miners, detailing the ways this disastrous proposal will erode American prosperity and financial innovation. “President Biden is fond of saying budget proposals reflect his values, and his latest budget proposal – which targets Bitcoin miners with punitive and unfounded electricity taxes – makes it crystal clear he does not value this integral part of our financial future,” said Lummis. “The Biden administration’s proposal is not only counterproductive to its own goals but jeopardizes an integral and growing sector of the American economy in an effort to pander to its radical, far-left base.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-cruz-cornyn-lee-introduce-bill-to-block-the-biden-administrations-latest-weaponization-of-the-esa-to-attach-u-s-oil-and-gas-producers/,"Lummis, Cruz, Cornyn, Lee Introduce Bill to Block the Biden Administration’s Latest Weaponization of the ESA to Attach U.S. Oil and Gas Producers",2024-07-17,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) joined U.S. Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Cornyn (R-TX) and Mike Lee (R-UT), all members of the Senate Western Caucus, in introducing legislation to block the Biden administration’s latest attempt to abuse the antiquated Endangered Species Act(ESA) to punish oil and gas producers across the west. Their legislation would reverse a final rule issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listing the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard as endangered. “This administration continues to use the outdated ESA to pummel energy producers across the west with heavy-handed regulations that compromise our energy independence to score points with climate change alarmists back in Washington,” said Lummis. “Despite embarrassingly low recovery rates, this administration will use any species it can to drown ranchers and landowners out west in a sea of red tape with no regard for the broader consequences. Our ability to achieve energy independence is paramount to our national security, and I will not stand idly by as this administration continues its chronic misuse of the ESA.” “The Biden administration has used the federal government to suppress American energy production at the exact time when the country and indeed the world needs access to affordable American energy,” said Cruz. “This disastrous rule threatens American jobs and undermines the production of energy in the Permian Basin. I call on the Senate to expeditiously take up and pass my legislation to reverse it.” “This rule is nothing more than a veiled attempt by the Biden administration to kneecap American energy under the guise of conservation,” said Cornyn. “We should be doing more – not less – to unleash domestic energy production, which is why I look forward to this absurd and unnecessary rule being struck down.” The Dunes Sagebrush Lizard is a small, light brown lizard that lives in western Texas and southeastern New Mexico. Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) previously introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-schmitt-lead-colleagues-in-reclaiming-legislative-power-post-chevron/,"Lummis, Schmitt lead colleagues in reclaiming legislative power post-Chevron",2024-07-16,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— Following the Supreme Court’s ruling in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) joined Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) in launching a working group to reclaim legislative authority wrongfully afforded to administrative agencies and restore this power back to where it belongs: with duly-elected members of Congress and the people they serve. “The Constitution is clear: decision-making powers lie with the democratically-elected members of Congress, not unelected bureaucrats,” said Lummis. “For far too long, the Chevron doctrine gave this administration carte blanche, empowering President Biden’s agencies to pander to its far-left base and drown the people of Wyoming in a sea of regulations. In light of the Supreme Court’s ruling, I am partnering with my colleagues to take the necessary steps to restore legislative powers to the people and finally put these runaway agencies back in their place.” The Post-Chevron working group will meet regularly to assess the monumental decision in Loper Bright and determine how to best limit the unlawful exercise of power by the administrative state as well as how the Senate can more effectively legislate on matters that regularly would’ve been left up to agency deference. Senator Lummis and her colleagues are also in the process of sending oversight letters to 101 agencies that have published more than 50 final rules since the year 2000. Those agencies will include the Department of Health and Human Services, the Food and Drug Administration, the Department of Commerce, the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Department of Transportation. In the letters, the senators will ask for more information on ongoing rulemaking, civil enforcement actions and adjudications by said agencies and how the Loper Bright decision impacts all of those actions moving forward, so that the senators can better conduct oversight over those agencies.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-bill-stops-foreign-and-artificial-intelligence-influence-on-energy-and-federal-lands-policy/,Barrasso Bill Stops Foreign and Artificial Intelligence Influence on Energy and Federal Lands Policy,2024-07-11,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) introduced legislation to prevent the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) electronic public comment system from being sabotaged by foreign adversaries and Artificial Intelligence (AI) bots. Currently, the federal government’s online comment system allows comments from individuals, organizations, or anonymous users, with no safeguards to prevent foreign individuals or AI bots from submitting comments relating to sweeping policy and rule proposals. The American Voices in Federal Lands Act would restrict the public comment process and ensure only American citizens are providing feedback on the policies affecting American energy production and federal lands. “The overreaching rules and regulations coming out of the Biden administration’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) have a significant impact on Wyoming’s farmers, ranchers, landowners, and energy industry. Their voices and opinions should be the top priority of the administration during public comment periods,” said Senator Barrasso. “Instead, the administration is allowing foreign adversaries and Artificial Intelligence (AI) bots to sabotage the public comment process. Bad actors, like Russia and China, are given the green light to influence policy and keep us from producing American energy. This bill will stop this interference and make sure only the American people have a say in Biden’s reckless energy and federal lands policies.” The American Voices in Federal Lands Act would deter comments from AI from being submitted by implementing a “Completely Automated Public test to Tell Computers and Humans Apart” (CAPTCHA) system. The Wyoming Stock Growers and the Wyoming Farm Bureau support limiting public comments received and considered by the BLM to only U.S. Citizens. Co-sponsors of this legislation include U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), and Steve Daines (R-Mont.). Full text of the legislation can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-lummis-introduce-bill-to-bring-transparency-to-the-student-loan-process/,"Barrasso, Lummis Introduce Bill to Bring Transparency to the Student Loan Process",2024-07-11,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, both R-Wyo., introduced the Transparency in Student Lending Act to ensure families and student borrowers have all of the information they need relating to financial aid and the cost of loans for higher education. The bill would require the Department of Education (ED) to disclose to borrowers of federal student loans such information as loan amounts, their annual percentage rates (APR), standard terms, and any fees or additional costs associated with the loan. This legislation would equip borrowers of federal student loans with information on the true cost of their loans, enabling students to make more informed financial decisions. “Students face an overwhelming amount of information and financial decisions when trying to plan and pay for higher education. Those trying to plan for college and their future deserve to know the true cost of their loans,” said Senator Barrasso. “This important bill will provide students and families the transparency they need to feel confident about their financial aid decisions and avoid unexpected costs.” “When young people across Wyoming apply for student loans, they should have a clear understanding of the financial obligations they are assuming,” said Senator Lummis. “Senator Barrasso and I are partnering to bring transparency to the student loan process to ensure borrowers understand the true cost of their loans and empower them to make informed decisions.” This legislation was previously introduced by Wyoming Senator Mike Enzi in the 116th Congress. Senator Barrasso was a cosponsor. The Transparency in Student Lending Act: Requires the Department of Education to disclose to borrowers the following information before the disbursement of their loan: The loan amount The loan’s stated interest rate The standard term for a loan of the same type Any fees or additional costs associated with the loan Any capitalization of interest on the loan Full text of the legislation can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/barrasso-lummis-introduce-bill-to-bring-transparency-to-the-student-loan-process/,"Barrasso, Lummis Introduce Bill to Bring Transparency to the Student Loan Process",2024-07-11,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, both R-Wyo., introduced the Transparency in Student Lending Act to ensure families and student borrowers have all of the information they need relating to financial aid and the cost of loans for higher education. The bill would require the Department of Education (ED) to disclose to borrowers of federal student loans such information as loan amounts, their annual percentage rates (APR), standard terms, and any fees or additional costs associated with the loan. This legislation would equip borrowers of federal student loans with information on the true cost of their loans, enabling students to make more informed financial decisions. “Students face an overwhelming amount of information and financial decisions when trying to plan and pay for higher education. Those trying to plan for college and their future deserve to know the true cost of their loans,” said Senator Barrasso. “This important bill will provide students and families the transparency they need to feel confident about their financial aid decisions and avoid unexpected costs.” “When young people across Wyoming apply for student loans, they should have a clear understanding of the financial obligations they are assuming,” said Senator Lummis. “Senator Barrasso and I are partnering to bring transparency to the student loan process to ensure borrowers understand the true cost of their loans and empower them to make informed decisions.” This legislation was previously introduced by Wyoming Senator Mike Enzi in the 116th Congress. Senator Barrasso was a cosponsor. The Transparency in Student Lending Act: Requires the Department of Education to disclose to borrowers the following information before the disbursement of their loan: The loan amount The loan’s stated interest rate The standard term for a loan of the same type Any fees or additional costs associated with the loan Any capitalization of interest on the loan",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-cosponsors-legislation-to-eliminate-unnecessary-woke-dei-programs/,"Lummis Cosponsors Legislation to Eliminate Unnecessary, Woke DEI Programs",2024-07-11,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) joined Sen. JD Vance (R-OH) in introducing legislation to eliminate the far-left diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs in the federal government. This bill will protect the people of Wyoming’s tax dollars against woke spending priorities. “DEI programs are not about promoting fairness, they are about exacerbating discourse and worsening racial biases, and there is no place for these divisive initiatives within the federal government,” said Lummis. “Wyoming’s tax dollars should not be funding this harmful ideology, and I am partnering with Senator Vance to put an end to this administration’s unnecessary political pandering.” The Dismantle DEI Act eliminates DEI programs within the federal government and rescinds President Biden’s executive orders surrounding DEI by outlawing mandatory employee DEI pledges, ending DEI trainings, preventing educational accreditation agencies from leveraging their position to push DEI policies in education institutions, among other measures.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-bidens-weakness-is-dangerous/,Barrasso: Biden’s Weakness is Dangerous,2024-07-10,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) spoke on the Senate floor today on the urgent need for strong American leadership. Weakness from Joe Biden and the Democrats has created a border crisis at home and chaos abroad. Sen Barrasso’s Remarks: “I rise today to speak about the need for strong American leadership. “President Biden’s weakness, as seen on the world stage, is dangerous. It is dangerous for our nation and the world. It hurts our citizens and encourages aggression against our nation and others. Sadly, America does not have strong leadership from the president or the vice president. “Joe Biden is stumbling, bumbling, and blundering into disaster. It is not one night of forgetfulness on the debate stage. It is a three-and-a-half-year pattern of failure. “We are living in a time of heartbreak at home and humiliation abroad. Look at the drugs, the death, the destruction coming from our southern border. Under Democrat open-border policies, there have been 10 million illegal immigrants who have invaded our nation. Americans all across the country are in danger. Democrats’ open border allowed Venezuelan criminals to go to Houston, Texas, to sexually abuse and murder a 12-year-old girl. “Illegal immigrant crime has taken the lives of many Americans across the country and makes headlines every day. The open border allows deadly fentanyl to flood our nation and poison our communities in all of our states. Certainly, Wyoming has been victim of this poisoning. “More than 300 terror suspects have come into America. That is 3000 percent higher than what we saw under the strong policies of President Trump. And terrorists are roaming our nation undetected. “Remember, border security is not optional. It is an obligation – a commitment to our American people. It is the foundation of our safety. Without border security, there can be no national security. “Under Joe Biden, Americans are not safe at home. Increasingly, the world is not safe either. President Biden’s weakness has invited war, invited conflict, and invited chaos around the world. “He continues to appease Iran by letting Iran evade sanctions. Iran is exporting almost 1.3 million barrels of oil to China every day. It uses the money from these oil sales to fund terrorism around the world. President Biden made the misguided assumption that concessions to Iran would stop conflict. Instead, Biden’s appeasement makes Iran more aggressive. “Meanwhile, Biden has proven to be a fair-weather friend to our strong ally Israel. “On American college campuses today, student protestors express hostility to the very existence of the Jewish state. Democrats in Washington have also grown more hostile to Israel. Senator Schumer demanded – on this very floor in March – that Israel replace its prime minister. Senator Sanders called the very next month for America to stop sending aid to Israel. “The anti-Israel drift in the Democratic Party is bad enough. What is more worrying is that President Biden – the leader of the Free World – lacks the backbone to stand against it. “Rather than resist the pro-Hamas wing of his party, Biden has repeatedly bowed to them. He recently slapped a de facto arms embargo on Israel. The weapons he withheld would limit civilian casualties and help Israel free the hostages. Biden stopped that. That includes eight American hostages who spent the past nine months, including their Fourth of July, in captivity by Hamas. “President Biden blocked these war-winning weapons anyways. He would rather appease a small group of pro-Hamas voters in Michigan than support our closest ally in the Middle East. Playing politics is the core of Joe Biden’s foreign policy. “He recently claimed that no American service members died on his watch. He told the world that. That is false. It’s wrong. It’s a denial of what happened. “On January 11, 2024, two Navy SEALS were lost at sea during a mission to stop weapons shipments from Iran to Houthi terrorists. Less than three weeks later, on January 28, three American soldiers were killed in Jordan by Iranian-backed militias. “Then, there is the disaster of Afghanistan. On August 26, 2021, ISIS terrorists killed 13 brave American service members. They were the first American military casualties in Afghanistan in a year and a half. “20-year-old Lance Corporal Rylee McCollum of Jackson Hole, Wyoming was one of them. This was a young man who loved his country and left an impression on everyone he met. He was our home state wrestling champion. He was recently married and was about to become a father. 1300 people in Wyoming attended his funeral. It was outdoors in a tent, 37 degrees, lasted several hours, and no one left. “Americans deserve better than a president who forgets the sacrifices of America’s heroes and forgives the aggression of America’s adversaries. “Joe Biden’s weakness and confusion are a vivid contrast to what past Presidents have done. “I think of President Ronald Reagan and his successful policy of ‘Peace through Strength.’ For eight years, President Reagan built a strong national defense, restored America’s confidence, and confronted America’s enemies. His approach incredibly ended the Cold War without firing a single shot. “Three decades later, President Trump adopted a similar policy. No more apologizing for America, like President Obama did. We had strong borders. We had a strong military. We had a strong economy. Most of all, we had strong leadership. Our allies respected us, and our enemies feared us. We were safer. “It’s time for America to return to this approach. The truth is, Joe Biden is a president who cannot defend his record and cannot defend this nation. For the safety of our nation, we need a lot less of Joe Biden’s weakness and a lot more peace through strength. “That’s what we need to do to get America back on track.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-applauds-decision-in-trump-v-united-states/,Barrasso Applauds Decision in Trump v. United States,2024-07-01,2024,2024-07,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"CASPER, WY—U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) today released the following statement applauding the United States Supreme Court ruling in Trump v. United States. “Today is another victory for democracy and the rule of law against Democrat lawlessness. Joe Biden and the Democrats are weaponizing the justice system because they know President Trump will beat them in November. President Trump has rightly pursued all legal channels to stop Democrats’ political prosecutions. The election will be decided at the ballot box, not in a courtroom.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-applauds-scotus-decision-to-curb-power-of-federal-agencies/,Barrasso Applauds SCOTUS Decision to Curb Power of Federal Agencies,2024-06-28,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"CASPER, WY – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) released the following statement applauding today’s United States Supreme Court ruling overturning the Chevron Doctrine, a decision that will curb the power and authority of unaccountable federal agencies. “Today’s Supreme Court ruling is a major victory for getting Washington out of Wyoming. For too long unelected, unaccountable Washington bureaucrats have gone unchecked. They abused the rulemaking process for decades. They ballooned the size of government and imposed on us a costly maze of burdensome political regulations. This ruling rightly curbs the power of rogue federal bureaucrats and puts it back into the hands of the American people.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:24:47Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-applauds-scotus-decision-to-rein-in-bidens-runaway-agencies/,Lummis Applauds SCOTUS Decision to Rein In Biden’s Runaway Agencies,2024-06-28,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) released the following statement after the U.S. Supreme Court announced its decision in the Loper Bright v. Raimondo case, overturning the Chevron doctrine and reining in runaway agencies’ sweeping authority. “For far too long, the Chevron doctrine has empowered unelected and unaccountable federal bureaucrats to have virtually uninhibited power to interpret the law however they please and use that interpretation to cater to this administration’s far left base,” said Lummis. “For years, the people of Wyoming have been forced to endure the consequences of an unchecked Biden administration and its heavy-handed regulations, and they have had enough. I applaud the Supreme Court’s decision to restore decision-making power back to democratically-elected members of Congress just as our Founding Fathers intended rather than allowing D.C. bureaucrats to rule with an iron fist.” Last July, Senator Lummis joined 17 of her fellow lawmakers in filing an amicus brief in the case of Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo citing that the doctrine of “Chevrondeference” violates Articles I, II and III of the Constitution. In January, Senator Lummis led her colleagues in filing an amicus brief in the U.S. Supreme Court Garland v. Cargill case asserting that the Biden administration’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) weaponized the Chevron doctrine to create new federal crimes to punish law-abiding and responsible gunowners without Congressional approval. Last week, the Supreme Court found the ATF’s reversal on this question was illegal and that its rule was unenforceable. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:24:47Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/sen-lummis-cosponsors-legislation-to-protect-victims-of-deepfake-revenge-porn/,Sen. Lummis Cosponsors Legislation to Protect Victims of Deepfake Revenge Porn,2024-06-26,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Bipartisan legislation would require social media sites to take down such explicit imagery and make publishing it a federal crime WASHINGTON, D.C. —U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) joined Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) in introducing the Tools to Address Known Exploitation by Immobilizing Technological Deepfakes on Websites and Networks (TAKE IT DOWN) Act to protect and empower victims of non-consensual intimate image abuse, also known as “revenge pornography.” The bill would criminalize the publication of non-consensual intimate imagery (NCII), including AI-generated NCII (or “deepfake pornography”), and require social media and similar websites to have procedures in place to remove such content upon notification from a victim. “Artificial intelligence is the future, and the way this technology can be used to improve lives around the globe is truly infinite. With any new industry comes the need to ensure it is not being used by bad actors, and AI is no different,” said Lummis. “I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing legislation to protect people against malicious and dangerous deepfakes that also allows innovation to continue in the United States.” The bill would criminalize the publication of non-consensual intimate imagery (NCII), including AI-generated NCII (or “deepfake pornography”), and require social media and similar websites to have in place procedures to remove such content upon notification from a victim. By requiring a notice and takedown process from websites that contain user generated content, including social media sites, the TAKE IT DOWN Act will ensure that, if the content is published online, victims are protected from being retraumatized again and again. The TAKE IT DOWN Act would protect and empower victims of real and deepfake NCII while respecting speech by: Criminalizing the publication of NCII in interstate commerce. The bill makes it unlawful for a person to knowingly publish NCII on social media and other online platforms. NCII is defined to include realistic, computer-generated pornographic images and videos that depict identifiable, real people. The bill also clarifies that a victim consenting to the creation of an authentic image does not mean that the victim has consented to its publication. Protecting good faith efforts to assist victims. The bill permits the good faith disclosure of NCII, such as to law enforcement, in narrow cases. Requiring websites to take down NCII upon notice from the victim. Social media and other websites would be required to have in place procedures to remove NCII, pursuant to a valid request from a victim, within 48 hours. Websites must also make reasonable efforts to remove copies of the images. The FTC is charged with enforcement of this section. Protecting lawful speech. The bill is narrowly tailored to criminalize knowingly publishing NCII without chilling lawful speech. The bill conforms to current first amendment jurisprudence by requiring that computer-generated NCII meet a “reasonable person” test for appearing to realistically depict an individual.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:24:47Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/barrasso-lummis-hageman-lead-amicus-brief-against-sec-climate-disclosure-rule/,"Barrasso, Lummis, Hageman Lead Amicus Brief Against SEC Climate Disclosure Rule",2024-06-25,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators John Barrasso, Cynthia Lummis and U.S. Representative Harriet Hageman (all R-WY) joined Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and U.S. Representative Kevin Hern (R-OK) in filing a bicameral amicus brief in Texas Alliance of Energy Producers, et al v SEC, requesting the court vacate the agency’s radical climate rule. This climate rule would be disastrous for Wyoming energy producers who would be buried in red tape to meet these unrealistic disclosure requirements. In March, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) adopted a finalized rule that requires publicly traded companies to disclose their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions data. This is the first time the SEC has published a rule issuing such a requirement. The amicus brief argues the climate rule would significantly increase burdens placed on publicly traded companies and hinder economic growth. The brief reiterates that Congress, not the administration, has the power to enact legislation, including laws addressing securities markets and climate policy. “The SEC, as a securities regulator, is not empowered to impose sweeping climate-related regulations on publicly traded companies,” the amicus brief stated. “Congress has demonstrated historical reluctance to pass broad climate legislation, particularly legislation that would dramatically impact federal securities law disclosure requirements. The SEC’s overreach into climate regulation violates the separation of powers and the major questions doctrine, warranting the rule’s invalidation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-lummis-block-fccs-eleventh-hour-election-meddling-attempt/,"Barrasso, Lummis Block FCC’s Eleventh-Hour Election Meddling Attempt",2024-06-20,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, U.S. Senators John Barrasso, Cynthia Lummis (both R-WY) and Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Ending FCC Meddling in Our Elections Act of 2024 which blocks the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) last ditch effort to interfere with the outcome of the presidential election. Barrasso and Lummis cosponsored this bill to protect the people of Wyoming’s right to free and fair elections. “It is unacceptable for unelected, Democrat federal officials to abuse their power and interfere in the upcoming presidential elections,” said Senator Barrasso. “The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and other federal agencies should not have any influence at the ballot box. This bill will protect voters in Wyoming and ensure free and fair elections across the board.” “The new rule introduced by the FCC’s Democrat majority is their eleventh-hour attempt to tip the scales in favor of Democrats ahead of the presidential election,” said Senator Lummis. “No federal agency should have the ability to interfere in our elections process, and our bill ensures the American people, not a biased agency, determines the outcome of the presidential election.” Last month, the Democrat majority on the FCC issued a new notice of proposed rulemaking, announcing its plan to introduce new regulations on the use of AI in campaign ads appearing on TV and radio. This legislation prohibits the use of federal funds to enforce any rule created as a result of this rulemaking. Only Congress, in a careful and transparent deliberative process, should be determining regulations surrounding AI-generated campaign ads. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:24:47Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/barrasso-lummis-block-fccs-eleventh-hour-election-meddling-attempt/,"Barrasso, Lummis Block FCC’s Eleventh-Hour Election Meddling Attempt",2024-06-20,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, U.S. Senators John Barrasso, Cynthia Lummis (both R-WY) and Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Ending FCC Meddling in Our Elections Act of 2024 which blocks the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) last ditch effort to interfere with the outcome of the presidential election. Barrasso and Lummis cosponsored this bill to protect the people of Wyoming’s right to free and fair elections. “It is unacceptable for unelected, Democrat federal officials to abuse their power and interfere in the upcoming presidential elections,” said Senator Barrasso. “The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and other federal agencies should not have any influence at the ballot box. This bill will protect voters in Wyoming and ensure free and fair elections across the board.” “The new rule introduced by the FCC’s Democrat majority is their eleventh-hour attempt to tip the scales in favor of Democrats ahead of the presidential election,” said Senator Lummis. “No federal agency should have the ability to interfere in our elections process, and our bill ensures the American people, not a biased agency, determines the outcome of the presidential election.” Last month, the Democrat majority on the FCC issued a new notice of proposed rulemaking, announcing its plan to introduce new regulations on the use of AI in campaign ads appearing on TV and radio. This legislation prohibits the use of federal funds to enforce any rule created as a result of this rulemaking. Only Congress, in a careful and transparent deliberative process, should be determining regulations surrounding AI-generated campaign ads. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-mullin-introduce-legislation-to-make-the-bald-eagle-the-national-bird/,"Lummis, Mullin Introduce Legislation to Make the Bald Eagle the National Bird",2024-06-20,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) introduced legislation to make the bald eagle the national bird for the United States. “There is nothing more American than a bald eagle soaring across the Wyoming sky,” said Lummis. “These majestic creatures have long been viewed as the official bird of this country and it is past time we made it official without costing taxpayers a single cent. As we approach the Fourth of July, I am thrilled to partner with Senators Amy Klobuchar, Markwayne Mullin and Tina Smith to make the bald eagle the national bird of the United States.” “The bald eagle has long been a symbol of freedom and patriotism for our nation,” said Mullin. “It’s only fitting we officially designate the bald eagle the national bird of the United States. I am glad to join my colleagues on this introduction.” “While most people assume the bald eagle is our nation’s official bird, the fact is our country doesn’t have an official bird,” said Preston Cook, Co-Chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center. “The bison is the national mammal, the rose is the national flower, and the oak is the national tree. It’s time the bald eagle, long revered as our national symbol, finds its rightful place as our country’s official national bird.” While many people think the bald eagle is already the national bird, the United States currently does not have a national bird. On June 20, 1782, the Continental Congress installed the bald eagle on the front of the Great Seal. Since then, the bald eagle has been a favored representative of our nation, second only to the American flag. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (both D-MN) cosponsored the legislation. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:24:47Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-hageman-barrasso-introduce-bill-to-protect-wyoming-ranchers-from-overzealous-biden-mandate/,"Lummis, Hageman, Barrasso Introduce Bill to Protect Wyoming Ranchers from Overzealous Biden Mandate",2024-06-14,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis, Representative Harriet Hageman and Senator John Barrasso (all R-WY) introduced legislation to address the Biden administration’s unsubstantiated final rule mandating electronic identification ear tags for bison and cattle. “Wyoming’s ranchers provide some of the highest quality meat in the world, yet this administration continues to find creative ways to make their jobs harder,” said Lummis. “Forcing Wyoming’s ranchers to shell out their hard-earned money to trace and chip their livestock not only threatens to erode their privacy but puts unnecessary pressure on our supply chain. As a rancher myself, I understand the devastating impact this will have on our industry and will do everything in my power to block this administration’s chronic federal overreach.” “This rule is a solution in search of a problem that will advance a federal mandate which the American ranching community will have to pay for. America produces the highest quality meat in the world and there is nothing wrong with our traditional disease traceability system. This unfunded mandate raises serious privacy concerns for ranchers and their herds, with the potential to lock ranchers out of their traditional markets, thereby furthering vertical integration of the U.S. food supply chain. We need look no further than what happened in Ireland to recognize the threat of a USDA-driven EID mandate,” Hageman said. “In early 2022 Ireland adopted an EID mandate, and by August 2023, their government was reporting that they needed to slaughter as many as 41,000 head of livestock – not because of a disease outbreak, but because of so called “climate change.” A mandatory EID simply gives the federal government too much power.” “Mandating ear tags for all cattle and bison will financially crush independent Wyoming ranchers,” said Barrasso. “Senator Lummis’ and Congresswoman Hageman’s legislation will stop this overreaching federal mandate in its tracks.” The Congressional Review Act resolution opposes the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s final rule which requires ranchers to fit all livestock over the age of 18 months with electronic identification ear tags if they are shipped across state lines, only offering exemptions for animals going directly to slaughter. The mandate will go into effect 180 days after the final publication on November 5th, giving ranchers in Wyoming little time to adjust to the new and costly requirements. It is estimated that roughly 11 million cattle nationwide will be impacted by the rule once it goes into effect. Rep. Harriet Hageman has introduced companion legislation in the House. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:24:47Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-statement-on-meeting-with-president-donald-trump/,Barrasso Statement on Meeting with President Donald Trump,2024-06-13,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) released the following statement after meeting with President Donald J. Trump. “I invited President Donald Trump to meet today with Senate Republicans. We had a great, energetic conversation. Under Joe Biden and the Democrats, the country is headed in the wrong direction. With President Trump in the White House, we discussed how Republicans will get America back on track. That starts with helping families escape the pain of Democrat high prices, unleashing American energy, stopping Democrat tax increases, and securing the Southern Border. Republicans are united.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:24:47Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-lummis-risch-crapo-hageman-simpson-urge-u-s-department-of-transportation-to-swiftly-aid-wyoming-in-repairing-teton-pass-following-landslide/,"Barrasso, Lummis, Risch, Crapo, Hageman, Simpson Urge U.S. Department of Transportation to Swiftly Aid Wyoming in Repairing Teton Pass Following Landslide",2024-06-12,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Representatives Harriet Hageman (R-WY) and Mike Simpson (R-ID) sent a letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg urging the U.S. Department of Transportation to provide necessary federal assistance to the Wyoming Department of Transportation as it works to repair Teton Pass following a catastrophic landslide that wiped out a section of the highway. “We stress the urgency of restoring travel for more than 7,000 daily drivers between the greater Jackson area of Wyoming and Victor, Idaho. The highway closure jeopardizes livelihoods and impacts a significant portion of the workforce—around 15%— that routinely commutes to Jackson from Idaho,” said the senators and representatives. Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon issued a disaster declaration to ensure the state has access to emergency federal funding to repair the highway, which serves as a crucial connector for not only employees and residents between Idaho and Wyoming, but also is critical for tourism as it connects Idaho to Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park. The senators and representatives stressed the urgency of this situation, as the alternate route adds more than an hour to the commute each way. For a copy of the letter, click here. The full text is below. June 12, 2024 The Honorable Pete Buttigieg Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE Washington, D.C. 20590 Dear Secretary Buttigieg: We write regarding the June 8th catastrophic structural failure at mile marker 12.8 on Wyoming State Highway 22, also known as Teton Pass. The restoration of Teton Pass is critical for thousands of residents in Wyoming and Idaho, local businesses and services, and the region’s economy. We appreciate your recent calls and personal attention to this over the weekend and as we determine next steps to restore the highway. We stress the urgency of restoring travel for more than 7,000 daily drivers between the greater Jackson area of Wyoming and Victor, Idaho. The highway closure jeopardizes livelihoods and impacts a significant portion of the workforce—around 15 percent— that routinely commutes to Jackson from Idaho. The alternative route adds a burdensome additional hour (or more) of travel time each way on roads and through communities not designed to handle the extra traffic. Highway 22 is a critical connector between Idaho and Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Teton County, Jackson Hole and countless outdoor destinations for visitors from around the world to enjoy. As you are aware, Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon issued a Declaration of Emergency in Executive Order 2024-06. The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) plans to submit the requisite documentation for emergency relief funds in the immediate future. We ask that emergency relief funds be provided as expeditiously as possible for any eligible short and long-term means of restoring travel on Highway 22. Thank you again for your ongoing efforts to facilitate restored travel over Teton Pass and alleviate the hardships on those who depend on this vital corridor. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/barrasso-lummis-risch-crapo-hageman-simpson-urge-u-s-department-of-transportation-to-swiftly-aid-wyoming-in-repairing-teton-pass-following-landslide/,"Barrasso, Lummis, Risch, Crapo, Hageman, Simpson Urge U.S. Department of Transportation to Swiftly Aid Wyoming in Repairing Teton Pass Following Landslide",2024-06-12,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Representatives Harriet Hageman (R-WY) and Mike Simpson (R-ID) sent a letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg urging the U.S. Department of Transportation to provide necessary federal assistance to the Wyoming Department of Transportation as it works to repair Teton Pass following a catastrophic landslide that wiped out a section of the highway. “We stress the urgency of restoring travel for more than 7,000 daily drivers between the greater Jackson area of Wyoming and Victor, Idaho. The highway closure jeopardizes livelihoods and impacts a significant portion of the workforce—around 15%— that routinely commutes to Jackson from Idaho,” said the senators and representatives. Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon issued a disaster declaration to ensure the state has access to emergency federal funding to repair the highway, which serves as a crucial connector for not only employees and residents between Idaho and Wyoming, but also is critical for tourism as it connects Idaho to Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park. The senators stressed the urgency of this situation, as the alternate route adds more than an hour to the commute each way. For a copy of the letter, click here. The full text is below. June 12, 2024 The Honorable Pete Buttigieg Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE Washington, D.C. 20590 Dear Secretary Buttigieg: We write regarding the June 8th catastrophic structural failure at mile marker 12.8 on Wyoming State Highway 22, also known as Teton Pass. The restoration of Teton Pass is critical for thousands of residents in Wyoming and Idaho, local businesses and services, and the region’s economy. We appreciate your recent calls and personal attention to this over the weekend and as we determine next steps to restore the highway. We stress the urgency of restoring travel for more than 7,000 daily drivers between the greater Jackson area of Wyoming and Victor, Idaho. The highway closure jeopardizes livelihoods and impacts a significant portion of the workforce—around 15 percent— that routinely commutes to Jackson from Idaho. The alternative route adds a burdensome additional hour (or more) of travel time each way on roads and through communities not designed to handle the extra traffic. Highway 22 is a critical connector between Idaho and Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Teton County, Jackson Hole and countless outdoor destinations for visitors from around the world to enjoy. As you are aware, Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon issued a Declaration of Emergency in Executive Order 2024-06. The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) plans to submit the requisite documentation for emergency relief funds in the immediate future. We ask that emergency relief funds be provided as expeditiously as possible for any eligible short and long-term means of restoring travel on Highway 22. Thank you again for your ongoing efforts to facilitate restored travel over Teton Pass and alleviate the hardships on those who depend on this vital corridor. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:24:47Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-slams-u-s-fish-and-wildlife-services-anti-wyoming-agenda/,Lummis Slams U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Anti-Wyoming Agenda,2024-06-12,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) grilled U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) Director Martha Williams during an Environmental and Public Works (EPW) Committee hearing on the agency’s failure to respond to Wyoming’s grizzly bear delisting petition and its blatant overreach on wolf management. During her time, Lummis questioned Director Williams about the agency’s unlawful delay in responding to the State of Wyoming’s petition to establish grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem as a distinct population segment and remove it from the endangered species list. “You said you will follow the law and the science, but let’s talk about grizzly delisting because you’re doing neither. In January 2022, two and a half years ago, the state of Wyoming filed a petition with Fish and Wildlife Services to establish grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem as a distinct population segment that is neither threatened nor endangered and to remove it from the endangered species list,” said Lummis. “By law, your agency is required to make a determination within 12 months of receiving the application. We are now two and a half years out from when the petition was submitted and your agency has stated you won’t have a decision until July. Further, the science established by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service decades ago proves that the grizzly has recovered and is way over population criteria.” Lummis also questioned the wisdom of the agency’s hiring of a third-party “mediator” to discuss how wolves and people can coexist while simultaneously establishing a “National Recovery Plan” for wolves already under state jurisdiction. Last month, Senator Lummis led Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) in introducing Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolutions to overturn the Biden administration’s reversal of key reforms to the Endangered Species Act (ESA) by the Trump administration that increased stakeholder engagement, defined critical habitat and ensured species recovery plans were effective. For video of Lummis during the committee hearing, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:24:47Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-pfluger-lead-letter-protecting-use-of-predator-control-devices-for-sheep-and-goat-producers/,"Barrasso, Pfluger Lead Letter Protecting Use of Predator Control Devices for Sheep and Goat Producers",2024-06-06,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) and U.S. Representative August Pfluger (R-Texas) recently led a bicameral letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) demanding the agency roll-back its ban on purchasing or deploying M-44 sodium cyanide ejector devices. M-44 devices are used by farmers and ranchers, mainly sheep and goat producers, for predator control. These devices are a valuable management tool and protect herds from coyotes, foxes, and feral dogs. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has continuously approved the use of these safe and effective devices by state agencies in the past. The agency included language prohibiting the use of M-44 devices by third parties in the USDA’s Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations Package signed into law earlier this year. “American ranchers are the foundation of our food and economic security, and we must promote policies that protect their viability. It is estimated that if Texas and Wyoming ranchers could better control predation, it could result in over $100 million in farm gate sales,” the members wrote. “In Wyoming alone, predator losses amounted to 47.3 percent of all sheep and lamb deaths. The continued production of M-44 devices is well within the law and is important to ensure ranchers have access to this safe and effective predation tool.” Co-signers of this letter include U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), and Ted Cruz (R-Texas). Full text of the letter can be found here. Secretary Vilsack, We write with great concern regarding the non-statutory report language prohibiting the purchase or deployment of M-44 sodium cyanide ejector devices included in the Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations Package signed into law on March 8, 2024. As you know, M-44 devices are an important tool for ranchers as they work to protect their herds from coyotes and foxes. Over the last several years, increased predation across the nation has contributed to declining volumes of domestic livestock herds. In fact, in Texas alone, it is estimated that predation of sheep and goats results in approximately $25 million annually in revenue losses. It is estimated that if Texas and Wyoming ranchers could better control predation, it could result in over $100 million in farm gate sales. In Wyoming alone, predator losses amounted to 47.3 percent of all sheep and lamb deaths. In Montana, coyotes killed over 1,500 livestock in Fiscal Year 2023 with many more going unreported as there is no coyote depredation compensation program. It is imperative that Congress and the Department of Agriculture (USDA) work in harmony to ensure producers have access to the resources they need to address aggressive predators. While we work in Congress to ensure prohibitions are not enacted in future legislation, we urge the USDA to continue production and supply of M-44 devices for government trappers and licensed private applicators. The continued production of M-44 devices is well within the law and is important to ensure ranchers have access to this safe and effective predation tool. American ranchers are the foundation of our food and economic security, and we must promote policies that protect their viability. We look forward to working with USDA in these endeavors. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:24:47Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-lummis-fight-to-protect-rural-nursing-homes-from-federal-overreach/,"Barrasso, Lummis Fight to Protect Rural Nursing Homes from Federal Overreach",2024-06-05,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, both R-Wyo., joined Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.) and their colleagues in introducing a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution of disapproval to overturn the Biden administration’s final rule affecting rural nursing homes and long-term care facilities. The final rule imposes burdensome federal staffing mandates on long-term care facilities. The most harmful is requiring facilities to have a registered nurse present 24/7, which is a drastic increase compared to the current requirement of 8 hours a day. This rule, submitted by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), comes when our healthcare industry is already facing significant staffing shortages. Experts estimate that only one in five nursing homes meets the new staffing requirement. Due to these shortages, nursing homes across rural America will struggle to remain open, and many will be forced to close their doors, leaving entire communities without access to these essential senior services. “The Biden administration is once again trying to force their one-size-fits-all policies across the country. This Washington overreach does not account for the needs of nursing homes and long-term care facilities in rural states like Wyoming,” said Senator Barrasso. “Burdensome mandates from Washington only undermine access to care for patients in rural areas. Republicans will not let the Biden administration close down facilities that offer critical care to our seniors in communities across Wyoming.” “Seniors in Wyoming should not have to fear losing access to vital health care, but this administration’s one-size-fits-all regulations threaten to make that a sobering reality,” said Senator Lummis. “These arbitrary mandates will only worsen staffing shortages and force nursing home closures throughout rural states like Wyoming and demonstrates just how out of touch the Biden administration is with the needs of rural America. My colleagues and I are leading the fight to protect seniors’ access to health care in rural communities and stand against this administration’s misguided mandates.” Senators joining the resolution of disapproval include U.S. Senators Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska). Full text of the resolution can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/barrasso-lummis-fight-to-protect-rural-nursing-homes-from-federal-overreach/,"Barrasso, Lummis Fight to Protect Rural Nursing Homes from Federal Overreach",2024-06-05,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, both R-Wyo., joined Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.) and their colleagues in introducing a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution of disapproval to overturn the Biden administration’s final rule affecting rural nursing homes and long-term care facilities. The final rule imposes burdensome federal staffing mandates on long-term care facilities. The most harmful is requiring facilities to have a registered nurse present 24/7, which is a drastic increase compared to the current requirement of 8 hours a day. This rule, submitted by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), comes when our healthcare industry is already facing significant staffing shortages. Experts estimate that only one in five nursing homes meets the new staffing requirement. Due to these shortages, nursing homes across rural America will struggle to remain open, and many will be forced to close their doors, leaving entire communities without access to these essential senior services. “The Biden administration is once again trying to force their one-size-fits-all policies across the country. This Washington overreach does not account for the needs of nursing homes and long-term care facilities in rural states like Wyoming,” said Senator Barrasso. “Burdensome mandates from Washington only undermine access to care for patients in rural areas. Republicans will not let the Biden administration close down facilities that offer critical care to our seniors in communities across Wyoming.” “Seniors in Wyoming should not have to fear losing access to vital health care, but this administration’s one-size-fits-all regulations threaten to make that a sobering reality,” said Senator Lummis. “These arbitrary mandates will only worsen staffing shortages and force nursing home closures throughout rural states like Wyoming and demonstrates just how out of touch the Biden administration is with the needs of rural America. My colleagues and I are leading the fight to protect seniors’ access to health care in rural communities and stand against this administration’s misguided mandates.” Senators joining the resolution of disapproval include U.S. Senators Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska). Full text of the resolution can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:24:47Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-statement-on-bidens-too-little-too-late-executive-order/,"Barrasso Statement on Biden’s Too Little, Too Late Executive Order",2024-06-04,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) issued the following statement slamming President Joe Biden’s latest executive order on the border. “Joe Biden and the open-border Democrats are terrified that voters will hold them accountable for the crime, the drugs, and the terrorists that are flooding into the United States. With the election only months away, the White House is panicked. They should be.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:24:47Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-lee-and-vance-demand-answers-from-google-over-woke-gemini-ai/,"Lummis, Lee and Vance Demand Answers from Google Over Woke Gemini AI",2024-06-03,2024,2024-06,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Mike Lee (R-UT) and JD Vance (R-OH) sent a letter to Google LLC Chief Executive Officer Sundar Pichai detailing several concerning examples of the Gemini artificial intelligence model (Gemini) creating outputs that intentionally disregard publicly available information and historical facts to align with woke ideology. The senators laid out a series of questions and requested transparency from Google over how Gemini was developed, how it is currently being utilized and what is being done to prevent political bias from tainting this emerging technology. “Between climate alarmism, wokeism and draconian COVID lockdowns, we have seen coastal elites try and weaponize information and technology to destroy the Wyoming way of life,” said Lummis. “Artificial intelligence is a transformative technology with incredibly positive potential for our country, but I am gravely concerned Google’s Gemini is being cultivated to tilt the political scales and rewrite history. It is imperative that Gemini, and other powerful systems like it, are developed as tools for human advancement and not for ideological influence and control.” “The use of major search engines and AI to manipulate public opinion or spread blatantly inaccurate historical information for political purposes is deeply concerning,” said Lee. “I am very interested in whether Google’s leadership will publicly disavow these practices and reassure the American people of their transparency.” Background: After Gemini was rolled out by Google in February 2024, outputs generated by the artificial intelligence platform raised serious concerns. Gemini refused to say whether Elon Musk tweeting memes or Adolf Hitler ordering the extermination of millions was worse, asserting that it could not decide who “had a more negative impact on society” according to a tweet shared by Nate Silver. When asked to create images of America’s Founding Fathers, the Pope, vikings and other historical figures, Gemini exclusively produced images that were ‘diverse’ instead of historically accurate. The images produced included a woman pope, black Vikings and a range of ‘diverse’ founding fathers, all historically incorrect. Following the horrific October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas that resulted in more than 1,000 civilian deaths, Gemini, unlike its competitors, refused to answer if Hamas was a designated terror group. There are also reports of publishers being paid to publish multiple articles per day using Gemini despite the number of documented inaccuracies in Gemini’s work. Click here to read the full letter. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-house-colleagues-urge-president-biden-not-to-veto-bipartisan-sab-121-cra/,"Lummis, House Colleagues Urge President Biden Not to Veto Bipartisan SAB 121 CRA",2024-05-30,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Representative Patrick McHenry (R-NC) led a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to reconsider his threat to veto Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) 121 Congressional Review Act (CRA) which passed the Senate and House with strong bipartisan support. “Given the overwhelming bipartisan votes, we urge you to sign H.J. Res. 109 into law or work with the SEC to rescind the staff guidance,” said Lummis and the representatives. “Rescinding SAB 121 is well within the SEC’s authority and there is ample precedent for revisiting a staff accounting bulletin. In fact, most staff accounting bulletins over the last three decades have been revisions and recessions of prior guidance.” This CRA resolution protects the foundation of essential custody services, protects consumers from increased bankruptcy risk and passed both chambers of Congress with strong bipartisan support. Reps. French Hill (R-AR), Andy Barr (R-KY), Tom Emmer (R-MN), Mike Flood (R-NE), Ritchie Torres (D-NY), WIley Nickel (D-NC) and Dan Meuser (R-PA) joined Lummis and McHenry in sending the letter. Background: On November 15, 2023, Senator Lummis, Representative Wiley Nickel (D-NC) and Representative Mike Flood (R-NE) sent a letter alongside Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Representatives Patrick McHenry (R-NC), French Hill (R-AR) and Ritchie Torres (D-NY) to the Federal Reserve, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Office of the Currency and the National Credit Union Administration (prudential regulators) urging them to clarify that SAB 121 is not enforceable after the Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that it is a rule for purposes of the Congressional Review Act. On February 1, 2024 Senator Lummis alongside Representatives Nickel and Flood introduced a bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Review Act resolution to overturn the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Staff Accounting Bulletin 121. The House passed the CRA resolution last week by a vote of 228 – 182, and the resolution passed the Senate by a vote of 60-38. This marks the first time both chambers of Congress have passed standalone crypto legislation. Read the full letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-lummis-thune-and-rounds-demand-u-s-forest-service-releases-chokehold-on-timber-industry-in-the-black-hills/,"Barrasso, Lummis, Thune and Rounds Demand U.S. Forest Service Releases Chokehold on Timber Industry in the Black Hills",2024-05-28,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), John Thune (R-SD) and Mike Rounds (R-SD) sent a letter to U.S. Forest Service Chief Randy Moore excoriating the Biden administration for its forest management policies in the Black Hills National Forest that are reducing the amount of trees available to harvest forcing saw mills to close and timber workers to lose their jobs. The senators request the Biden administration to open more of the Black Hills National Forest for timber harvesting and toss a lifeline to the Wyoming and South Dakota saw mills and workers who have seen their livelihoods threatened by the radical policies coming out of Washington. “Unfortunately, dwindling sawmill capacity near our nation’s national forest is not unique to the Black Hills. Since 2020, more than 20 mills near national forests have been forced to curtail production or close altogether. While the timber industry faces its own unique market pressures, the recent layoffs are a direct result of reductions to the U.S. Forest Service’s timber sale program,” wrote the senators. Background: The Black Hills National Forest produced the first federal timber sale in 1899 and was one of the U.S. Forest Service’s highest timber producing forests in the country for more than a century. Further reductions to the Black Hills National Forest timber sale program will not only have dire economic consequences but also put the forest at increased risk of catastrophic wildfire and insect and disease outbreaks. Two mills in western South Dakota have closed in the past five years including Hill Materials in Spearfish and Rushmore Forest Products in Hill City. On April 11, 2024, Neiman Enterprises announced it would be laying off employees at its sawmill in Spearfish, South Dakota, resulting in more than 50 employees losing their jobs. This announcement came roughly three years after Neiman Enterprises was forced to fully shutter a sawmill in Hill City, South Dakota, where roughly 120 people lost their jobs when that mill closed. On May 10, 2024, Senator Lummis joined Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), John Thune (R-SD) and Mike Rounds (R-SD) in sending a letter to the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related Agencies requesting the U.S. Forest Service allow a minimum of 75% of the annual allowable sale quantity in the Black Hills National Forest. Click here to read the full letter. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-barrasso-thune-and-rounds-demand-u-s-forest-service-releases-chokehold-on-timber-industry-in-the-black-hills/,"Lummis, Barrasso, Thune and Rounds Demand U.S. Forest Service Releases Chokehold on Timber Industry in the Black Hills",2024-05-28,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), John Thune (R-SD) and Mike Rounds (R-SD) sent a letter to U.S. Forest Service Chief Randy Moore excoriating the Biden administration for its forest management policies in the Black Hills National Forest that are reducing the amount of trees available to harvest forcing saw mills to close and timber workers to lose their jobs. The senators request the Biden administration to open more of the Black Hills National Forest for timber harvesting and toss a lifeline to the Wyoming and South Dakota saw mills and workers who have seen their livelihoods threatened by the radical policies coming out of Washington. “Unfortunately, dwindling sawmill capacity near our nation’s national forest is not unique to the Black Hills. Since 2020, more than 20 mills near national forests have been forced to curtail production or close altogether. While the timber industry faces its own unique market pressures, the recent layoffs are a direct result of reductions to the U.S. Forest Service’s timber sale program,” wrote the senators. Background: The Black Hills National Forest produced the first federal timber sale in 1899 and was one of the U.S. Forest Service’s highest timber producing forests in the country for more than a century. Further reductions to the Black Hills National Forest timber sale program will not only have dire economic consequences but also put the forest at increased risk of catastrophic wildfire and insect and disease outbreaks. Two mills in western South Dakota have closed in the past five years including Hill Materials in Spearfish and Rushmore Forest Products in Hill City. On April 11, 2024, Neiman Enterprises announced it would be laying off employees at its sawmill in Spearfish, South Dakota, resulting in more than 50 employees losing their jobs. This announcement came roughly three years after Neiman Enterprises was forced to fully shutter a sawmill in Hill City, South Dakota, where roughly 120 people lost their jobs when that mill closed. On May 10, 2024, Senator Lummis joined Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), John Thune (R-SD) and Mike Rounds (R-SD) in sending a letter to the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related Agencies requesting the U.S. Forest Service allow a minimum of 75% of the annual allowable sale quantity in the Black Hills National Forest. Click here to read the full letter. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-bidens-open-border-is-to-blame-for-fentanyl-deaths/,Barrasso: Biden’s Open Border is to Blame for Fentanyl Deaths,2024-05-23,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"“Until we secure the border and protect Americans, we’re not going to be able to get to the bottom of the fentanyl problem.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – At today’s Senate Committee on Finance hearing, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) discussed how the Biden administration’s open-border agenda is escalating the fentanyl crisis across the country. Senator Barrasso spoke with addiction treatment experts about how increased drug trafficking has contributed to fentanyl overdose deaths in Wyoming. Barrasso also touched on improving rural access to fentanyl recovery health care and protecting Wyoming’s Native American populations that are targeted by Mexican drug cartels. Tony Vezina, Abigail Heron, DO, Caleb Banta-Green, Ph.D., MPH, MSW, and Jeanmarie Perrone, MD testified at today’s Senate Committee on Finance hearing titled “Front Lines of the Fentanyl Crisis: Supporting Communities and Combating Addiction through Prevention and Treatment.” On Biden’s Open Border Bringing Drugs into Wyoming “I’m truly alarmed by the fentanyl crisis facing our nation, clearly nothing like that existed when I was practicing medicine. It’s everywhere, no community is spared. A lethal dose is equivalent to just a few grains of salt. Across the country, the number of deaths have been skyrocketing. “In my home state of Wyoming, you wouldn’t think that it’d be a problem there. We’ve had 81 opioid-related overdose deaths. This past year has doubled the number from five years ago – completely unacceptable. “It’s touching every community across our nation – mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, all losing family members. I hear about it all around the state. “Since President Biden took office, nearly 10 million illegal immigrants have flooded into our nation. And Senator Grassley touched on this a little earlier today: 77,000 pounds of fentanyl have been confiscated at the border over that time. You don’t know how much got through, but you can imagine just based on the statistics and the deaths, the number is high. “Whether it’s from China or Mexico, the transnational criminal networks that are producing, transporting, and marketing these drugs are poisoning our country. “Our border patrol agents are supposed to be our first line of defense in apprehending the drug smugglers, but they can’t get their job done to the level that it needs to be done. They’re being forced, I believe, by this administration to deal with unaccompanied minors, asylum seekers who are surging across the border, which is making an increased opportunity for the criminal cartels to get more drugs across.” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on Biden’s open border and drugs in Wyoming. On Helping Rural Communities to Receive Adequate Fentanyl Recovery Care “Mr. Vezina, I’ve read your story, heard what you have to say. I really appreciate your ability to be here, to speak on the substance use disorder care, because that’s what we’re looking for. Care is needed now more than ever. “Today, you’ve spoken about the challenges that folks in recovery face when they don’t receive a full continuum of services. It’s not like one silver bullet on this, you need the whole thing. “Your experience as someone in recovery, someone providing collaborative care, says you need a network, mental health counseling, substance use counseling, peer support, case management, medication assisted treatment, all of those things. “Given the frontier nature of my home state of Wyoming, people are spread out, you don’t have all of those services available everywhere. There are only two towns with a population that can support this level that you’ve described as a specialty care, even less availability for youth focused programs like yours. “Are there existing programs – either state or federal – that you’re aware of that can help in rural communities where you don’t have that full continuum, even though we know that’s the best treatment?” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on rural access to recovery care. “In February this year, the DEA reported on regions of the U.S. being targeted by the Mexican drug cartels. I live in one of those regions in Wyoming. “They found that the cartels are targeting states further away from the border. The highest area of focus are Native American reservations. Certainly that’s the situation in Wyoming. “Our Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho, they live on Wind River Reservation, larger than the state of Connecticut. I mean, we’re talking about a big geographic area and low population. “It continues to experience one of the highest drug overdose death rates in the state. I’m deeply concerned about the cartels that are targeting our Native American populations. “A lot of them have to do with the fact that the size of the geography and the smaller number of people make it an area where they can really focus. “Can the federal government do things? How can we best respond from the federal government level to counter the efforts by the cartels?” Follow Up: “Until we secure the border and protect Americans, we’re not going to be able to get to the bottom of the fentanyl problem.” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on targeted Native American populations. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-secures-extension-for-university-of-wyoming-water-management-project/,Lummis Secures Extension for University of Wyoming Water Management Project,2024-05-23,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) secured language in the Water Resources and Development Act of 2024 (WRDA) to extend authorization for a University of Wyoming (UW) project to expand the network of stations to monitor snowpack and soil moisture throughout the plains areas of the Upper Missouri River Basin. The project will produce critical data to help Wyoming and surrounding states mitigate flooding and better understand how they can manage valuable resources and maximize access to water that ranchers and landowners rely on. “Access to water is life in Wyoming, and as a rancher I know firsthand how important it is to always be improving our understanding of how we can be good stewards of our natural resources,” said Lummis. “I am proud the University of Wyoming is spearheading the effort to expand upon our base of knowledge and lead us into the future. Seeing Wyoming tax dollars sent to Washington come back and be spent to better our state is truly the best use and a rare departure from the usual wasteful spending in Washington.” Background: On April 12, 2024, Senator Lummis sent a letter to U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee Chairman Tom Carper (D-DE) and Ranking Member Shelly Moore Capito (R-WV) urging them to include funding to extend the UW project funding in the Water Resources and Development Act of 2024. The authorization was set to expire in 2025 but will now be extended to 2029 to prevent a lapse in authorization for the project expected to be completed in 2027. UW received an $8M grant in 2020 to expand the mesonet network in the state. As of April 2024, there were 18 stations in Wyoming and 61 are expected to be completed for the grant. Click here to read the full bill. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-lummis-introduces-resolution-to-recognize-wwii-star-valley-crew/,"Barrasso, Lummis Introduces Resolution to Recognize WWII Star Valley Crew",2024-05-22,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced a resolution honoring the crew of the Star Valley, a U.S. Army Air Corps B-24 Liberator that crashed during World War II, and recognizing their sacrifice to defend our great nation. “Afton’s Sergeant Wilford T. Heninger served our country and Wyoming with distinction. He left a legacy of service, dedication and patriotism for future generations to emulate. The crew of the B-24 Liberator Star Valley honored his legacy by naming their aircraft after him,” said Senator Barrasso. “This brave crew ultimately gave their lives to defend our nation and freedoms in a mission over France in 1944. Our resolution honors the crew of the Star Valley B-24, Sergeant Heninger, and all the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in World War II.” “The crew of the Star Valley represented our state triumphantly and served our nation with great honor and distinction,” said Lummis. “These men and their families made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our great country and our resolution ensures their memory and unwavering dedication to defending the freedoms we hold so dear lives on.” On February 5, 1944, the Star Valley, named in honor of an Army Air Corp servicemember from Afton, Wyoming, who died in a training accident, crashed near the French village of Saint-Leonard-en Beauce. Nine service members died and one was held as a prisoner of war until liberation in 1945. Each May, Saint-Leonard-en Beauce hosts a ceremony honoring victims of World War II including the crew of the Star Valley. Read a copy of the resolution here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-democrats-block-barrassos-build-the-wall-act/,Democrats Block Barrasso’s Build The Wall Act,2024-05-22,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"“Democrats in this body have done nothing to secure the border. They’ve done nothing to stop the flood of illegal immigrants […] My proposal finishes the wall. It pays for it by clawing back unused COVID funding. This wall is absolutely vital to our border security.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo) took to the Senate floor to request unanimous consent to consider the Build the Wall Act of 2024. This bill finishes the southern border wall and uses unspent COVID-19 funds to pay for it. “We know that the border wall works. My proposal finishes the wall. It pays for it by clawing back unused COVID funding. This wall is absolutely vital to our border security,” Senator Barrasso said on the Senate floor. “If Democrats are serious about securing our border, they should start by voting for a policy that actually works and is paid for.” Senate Democrats subsequently blocked consideration of the Build the Wall Act. Senator Barrasso’s Build the Wall Act of 2024 is cosponsored by Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), James Risch (R-Idaho), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa). Excerpts of Sen. Barrasso’s Remarks: “I come to the floor today to continue this discussion about the crisis at our southern border. “When Joe Biden walked into the White House, the southern border was secure. Tragically for our country, he then signed 94 executive orders in his first 100 days. “He rolled out the welcome mat and millions and millions of illegal immigrants flooded into our nation. Democrats in Congress joined him. “They joined the president, they worked with him, they aggressively rolled back Republican-led policies that had worked to keep our country safe. “Our southern border is now a pipeline for illegal crossings. Since Joe Biden took office, almost 10 million illegal immigrants have invaded America. “Democrats’ uncontrolled, illegal immigration, it strains our tax dollars, it undermines the safety of our citizens, and it endangers our communities. “Hardworking American taxpayers are now paying for housing, health care, and government handouts all for illegal immigrants. “According to one study, the Democrat border crisis costs states and cities close to $450 billion each and every year. “The heaviest costs of this crisis are born by families, by communities, and by local law enforcement. Day after day, lives are cut short or changed forever. “Just two weeks ago, in Florida, an 11-year-old girl was kidnapped and sexually assaulted by a 20-year-old illegal immigrant. Brought into this country under the Catch-and-Release program by President Biden. He’s here because of this dangerous program. “The local sheriff had this to say: ‘The Federal government is victimizing the people who live in this country by letting these people in.’ “To my Democrat colleagues who voted for open borders, I ask you this: What if that were your daughter? What if this were your granddaughter? Kidnapped by an illegal immigrant, brought in under the Catch-and-Release program. “Fortunately, this young girl’s mother was able to identify the situation and ran desperately to get that daughter who had been kidnapped. “We are here fighting to secure the border and to make our communities safer. “Democrats in this body have done nothing to secure the border. They’ve done nothing to stop the flood of illegal immigrants. The record of the Democrats is appalling. And let me start with H.R. 2. “H.R. 2 is of course the House bill. It’s called the Secure Our Border Act of 2023. It’s the strongest border security bill in our history. “It completes the wall – because walls work. It surges new technology to the border. It hires more border patrol agents and gives them a bonus. It ends Catch-and-Release. And it reinstates the successful plan of Remain in Mexico. “If signed into law, H.R.2 would stop the flood of illegal immigrants. “The House of Representatives passed this bill, the Secure the Border Act of 2023, on May 11, 2023. That’s over a year ago. The Senate Majority Leader refuses to bring this House-passed bill to the floor. He has been blocking the bill for over a year. “Of course, it’s not just blocking the Secure the Border Act that is the problem. Democrats will not vote for real border security measures. “For three years now, open-border Democrats – each and every one of them – have rejected solutions aimed at fixing the border crisis. Not once. Not twice. Twenty-two different recorded votes. “Democrats banded together to say no to finishing the wall. No to ending catch and release. And no to restoring the Remain in Mexico policy. They blocked the Laken Riley Act. “Meanwhile, they embrace policies that tried to smooth the flow of illegal immigrants when people all across America are saying stop this flood. “This includes sending illegal immigrants cash payments – paid with taxpayer dollars. Democrats continue to fund sanctuary cities. “For three years, my Democrat colleagues seemed to welcome the crisis at our southern border. They now want to run away from their record. “And we know why. It’s because Election Day is less than 6 months away and they can read the polls. So Democrats can run, but they cannot hide. “The Majority Leader recently said, ‘The situation at the border is unacceptable.’ “I’m not sure he actually believes that. “After all, one of his first comments after the 2022 election, he endorsed amnesty for illegal immigrants. The Majority Leader said at the time that opening up our country to illegal immigrants is ‘the only way we’re going to have a great future in America.’ “Democrats have no desire to secure the border. Every single Democrat in this Capitol is responsible for the drugs, the death, and the destruction brought on by the invasion of our nation by illegal immigrants. “This is the cycle of suffering that Senate Republicans are determined to stop. “This week, I introduced the Build the Wall Act. We know that the border wall works. “My proposal finishes the wall. It pays for it by clawing back unused COVID funding. This wall is absolutely vital to our nation’s security. “Once upon a time Senator Schumer supported a border wall in the past. Many of his Democrat colleagues supported a border wall. When Joe Biden was then Senator Joe Biden, and I served with him in this body, he actually voted for a border wall. “They all flip flopped, and we know why: politics, plain and simple. “To my Democrat colleagues I say this: You are responsible for innocent Americans being victimized by illegal immigrants in communities all across the nation. “If Democrats are serious about securing our border, they should start by voting for a policy that actually works and is paid for. “That’s the reason to vote for the bill I’ve introduced, the Build the Wall Act.” Follow Up to Senator Ron Wyden’s (D-Ore.) Objection: “Let me be very, very brief in just pointing out that this bill calls for using unspent COVID money specifically as a result of the COVID pandemic that hit our nation. Money sent to be spent for that. “It does seem to me just about every American that we are way beyond that period of time and money designated for that purpose, it has not yet been spent, should be readily available for a project like this. “I’d also note that my friend and colleague who’s on the floor was along with President Biden and Leader Schumer, was one of those who did vote on September 29, 2006, for a bill at the time, it was called the Secure Fence Act of 2006.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/barrasso-lummis-introduces-resolution-to-recognize-wwii-star-valley-crew/,"Barrasso, Lummis Introduces Resolution to Recognize WWII Star Valley Crew",2024-05-22,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced a resolution honoring the crew of the Star Valley, a U.S. Army Air Corps B-24 Liberator that crashed during World War II, and recognizing their sacrifice to defend our great nation. “Afton’s Sergeant Wilford T. Heninger served our country and Wyoming with distinction. He left a legacy of service, dedication and patriotism for future generations to emulate. The crew of the B-24 Liberator Star Valley honored his legacy by naming their aircraft after him,” said Senator Barrasso. “This brave crew ultimately gave their lives to defend our nation and freedoms in a mission over France in 1944. Our resolution honors the crew of the Star Valley B-24, Sergeant Heninger, and all the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in World War II.” “The crew of the Star Valley represented our state triumphantly and served our nation with great honor and distinction,” said Lummis. “These men and their families made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our great country and our resolution ensures their memory and unwavering dedication to defending the freedoms we hold so dear lives on.” On February 5, 1944, the Star Valley, named in honor of an Army Air Corp servicemember from Afton, Wyoming, who died in a training accident, crashed near the French village of Saint-Leonard-en Beauce. Nine service members died and one was held as a prisoner of war until liberation in 1945. Each May, Saint-Leonard-en Beauce hosts a ceremony honoring victims of World War II including the crew of the Star Valley. Read a copy of the resolution here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-applauds-house-passage-of-pro-crypto-legislation/,Lummis Applauds House Passage of Pro-Crypto Legislation,2024-05-22,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) released the following statement commending the House of Representatives for passing legislation to provide market structure for the crypto asset industry. “The passage of FIT 21 proves there is strong, bipartisan support in Congress for creating a regulatory framework for the crypto industry,” said Lummis. “Senator Gillibrand and I have worked tirelessly to provide commonsense solutions that strike the balance of unleashing financial innovation without eroding consumer protections with our digital asset legislation, and I am encouraged by the House’s shared interest in positioning the United States to be a global leader in cryptocurrency. Congratulations to Chairman Patrick McHenry, Chairman GT Thompson, Representative French Hill and Representative Dusty Johnson on this momentous vote.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-bill-funds-southern-border-wall-with-unused-covid-19-funds/,Barrasso Bill Funds Southern Border Wall with Unused COVID-19 Funds,2024-05-21,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) introduced legislation that would require unobligated COVID-19 funds be used to finish building the wall along our southern border. Senator Barrasso introduced the legislation as an amendment to the Border Security Act (S. 4361). The Build the Wall Act of 2024 would establish the “Southern Border Wall Construction Fund” and require the Department of Homeland Security to use any unobligated Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) to construct and maintain physical barriers along the southern border of the United States. “Border walls work. Before President Biden came into office, we were well on our way to a secure and safe southern border. But on his first day in office, the president and Democrats rolled out the welcome mat for millions of illegal immigrants to come into our nation,” said Senator Barrasso. “We must hold Democrats accountable for their open border policies that have created the worst border crisis in our nation’s history. If they are serious about securing our border, they should have no issues voting for a policy that actually works and is already paid for.” Full text of the legislation can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-presses-sec-blinken-on-bidens-reckless-administration-of-evacuations/,Barrasso Presses Sec. Blinken on Biden’s Reckless “Administration of Evacuations”,2024-05-21,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"“Whether it’s in Burma, Belarus, Sudan, Haiti, there seems to be a dangerous growing trend of the U.S. in retreat… It appears the [Biden] administration has become the administration of evacuations.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – At today’s Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) pressed U.S. Department of State Secretary Antony Blinken on the Biden administration’s disastrous foreign policies. Senator Barrasso challenged the State Department’s condolences on the death of Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi and noted the Biden administration’s growing record of global military evacuations and surrendering military bases to adversaries. Finally, Barrasso questioned Sec. Blinken on countering Russia’s newly created foothold in Africa. Secretary Blinken testified at today’s Senate Committee on Foreign Relations hearing on American Diplomacy and Global Leadership: Review of the FY25 State Department Budget Request. On the Biden Administration’s Condolences for Iranian President “Yesterday the State Department issued a statement mourning the death of the Iranian President. Now, I assume that as Secretary, you share that sentiment.” Follow Up: “Well, I don’t think it should be a normal course of business. I think it’s shocking that this administration would mourn the death of the “Butcher of Tehran”. I don’t. “He’s responsible for death, rape, torture, the sworn enemy of the free world. So I think it’s a terrible mistake, Mr. Secretary.” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on the late Iranian president. On Global Military Evacuations “I want to move on to another issue in terms of some of the evacuations and retreats that are happening around the world. “Since the deadly withdrawal from Afghanistan in August of 2021, the administration has urgently evacuated Americans at several embassies across the globe. I hadn’t expected to hear about this in Wyoming, but I heard about it again in Wyoming just this past weekend. “Whether it’s in Burma, Belarus, Sudan, Haiti, there seems to be a dangerous growing trend of the U.S. in retreat. The United States has been forced to draw down, evacuate, and close numerous diplomatic posts. “It used to be rare to see images of U.S. troops flying to the rescue to evacuate our embassies, but it’s becoming a more common sight under this administration. In 2023, U.S. troops and three helicopters airlifted seventy American employees from Sudan. In 2024, in Haiti, U.S. military airlifted over thirty stranded Americans. “It appears the administration has become the administration of evacuations. “During your leadership as Secretary of State, how many embassies have we had to close or evacuate?” Follow Up: “Do you see a unifying, underlying factor for this terrible trend, and how are you addressing that?” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on Biden’s numerous evacuations. On Surrendering American Military Bases to Adversaries “The administration, following the withdrawal from Afghanistan, left behind weapons, ammunition, and equipment that ultimately armed the Taliban. “Now we’ve announced withdrawal from Niger. State Department efforts to re-establish relations and engage in diplomacy there have failed. The government there is demanding that we leave. “Our nation is withdrawing one thousand troops from two air bases where we conducted important counterterrorism missions for decades. “Media reports already indicate that Russian troops have already been deployed to these air bases where American soldiers are located. “Do you know how much American taxpayer money the United States have spent on building these bases and training the military there?” Follow Up: “Do you not see risk, though, with American taxpayer-funded bases ultimately ending up in the hands of the Russians?” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on surrendering American military bases. On Countering Russia’s Foothold in Africa “Now we’re seeing the Russians, you know, the Wagner mercenary group providing military training and support in Burkina Foso, Mali, in addition to where you mentioned. “How are we countering Russia’s newly created foothold in Africa? Follow Up: “I would add that once they find out the hard way, it may be very difficult for them to extract themselves from the domination of the Russians and come back to us.” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on countering Russia’s foothold in Africa. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-bidenomics-is-crushing-american-families/,Barrasso: Bidenomics is Crushing American Families,2024-05-20,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) spoke on the Senate floor today to correct the record about the failure of Bidenomics and its negative impact on the American people. Sen Barrasso’s Remarks: “I come to the floor today to speak about the economy. Joe Biden is clearly the president of high prices. People all across the country, all 50 states, are well aware that this is going to be Joe Biden’s enduring legacy. “Prices spiked again in April. The statistics are out. Prices have been rising again and again and again. Price increases have been now above 3 percent for the last 37 months. This is the longest period in history of high prices since the late 1980s. “President Biden continues to repeat a falsehood. You could call it a lie. Because he has said time and again that inflation was 9 percent when he came into office. This is pure confusion on his part. Even the liberal fact-checkers – people at CNN, people in the Washington Post – have said what President Biden is saying about inflation is flat-out false. It’s wrong. “In January of 2021, the day that the current President Biden took the oath of office, the inflation rate in America was 1.4 percent. Today, prices are almost 20 percent higher than they were the day he took the oath of office. “The burden of Bidenomics on the American public is crushing, it’s compounding, and of course, it’s cumulative. It continues to add on every single day. But Democrats in this chamber and around the country deny this economic reality. Certainly, the Democrat in the White House denies this economic reality. And President Biden proved that he was completely disconnected from the suffering American families. “Earlier this month, he said Americans have, quote, ‘the money to spend.’ I’m not sure who he’s talking to, but that’s not the case across America. And it’s not the case in my home state of Wyoming. Democrats are completely out of touch on the economy because they are out of touch with American voters, the citizens of this country. “Rising prices have plagued Americans for the last three years. Everyday life costs more and more and more. Under Joe Biden, Americans are squeezed, they are stressed, and they are struggling to get by. More than half of Americans will tell you that the economic conditions that they see day in and day out are poor – poor for them personally. More than 80 percent of Americans saying that high prices are their number one concern. That’s what the Americas are suffering from today. “President Biden’s policies are not the cure for inflation and our economic anxieties. Joe Biden and the Democrats’ policies are the cause of our economic struggles. Joe Biden and the Democrats in this chamber and in the House of Representatives at a time when Nancy Pelosi was Speaker, they approved more than $3 trillion in wasteful Washington spending. The President added more than $1 trillion additionally on stifling and punishing economic regulations. He launched a war on American energy. Hiked energy costs for families. Gas prices went up, electricity prices went up. “Because of failed Bidenomics, Americans are paying over $12,000 more a year, this year, than they did the year that he came into office just to buy the same things that they could buy the day he came into the White House. It’s over $1,000 a month. That’s what the American people are seeing today. “A hundred-dollar cart of groceries in 2019, the costs now are that same cart full of groceries, not very full, $137. Gallon of gas was in 2021, 2.38. Today in many of the battleground states – Nevada, Arizona, Pennsylvania – it’s approaching $4 a gallon. “Now of course, high prices aren’t the only problem. Interest rates are at the highest level in 23 years. High interest rates are a bitter fruit of Bidenomics. People are suffering when they have to take out a loan. This is causing significant affordability crisis all across the country and in all age groups. Under these failed policies of the Biden administration, younger people, younger Americans, have been demoralized. They are delaying life’s biggest moments. “Home ownership is slipping far out of the reach of most young married couples and young people trying to start a family. Young Americans are facing the costliest housing market ever. Borrowing costs have soared. Biden took office, they were 2.7 percent. Today, over 7 percent. Home prices today are nearly six times higher than the average household income. That’s a record ratio. Six times higher than the average household income. “Other costs – utility costs, insurance costs, all costs – are climbing. And they’re all caused by the amount of spending we’ve had under this administration. Young Americans having trouble buying a car. The price of car loans is going way up as well as the price of automobiles themselves. “Young Americans are also forced to rely on credit cards more and more. They are developing mounting debt, which is going to contribute to saddle them and their future. Young Americans will tell you that they are overextended and they are distressed and they’re begging for relief. “Today’s high prices and high interest rates are going to create tomorrow’s troubles. President Biden has failed to protect the American dream. We now have an entire generation of young Americans who can’t afford to buy a home, can’t afford to start a business, can’t afford to begin a family, and certainly can’t afford to grow any savings that they may have. “Americans are absolutely fed up with big spending high-priced Democrats. People are financially exhausted by Joe Biden’s high prices. People are ready to move beyond Bidenomics and beyond Joe Biden. Time for a change. “Senate Republicans are ready to put America back on track. We’re fighting to lower costs. That’s what we’re hearing every weekend at home: Get down the prices of things that are up under Joe Biden, stop the wasteful Washington spending and unleash American energy. That’s the solution to the problems facing America today. “This is how we can help make life more affordable for all Americans.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-lummis-join-bill-to-repeal-unnecessary-tax-on-firearm-purchases/,"Barrasso, Lummis Join Bill to Repeal Unnecessary Tax on Firearm Purchases",2024-05-20,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) joined U.S. Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and their colleagues in introducing the Repealing Illegal Freedom and Liberty Excises (RIFLE) Act. This legislation would remove a burdensome tax imposed on firearms regulated under the National Firearms Act. “The Second Amendment is one of our nation’s most essential safeguards. Law-abiding citizens in Wyoming responsibly use this right to keep and bear arms every day,” said Senator Barrasso. “The last thing responsible gun owners need is more burdensome Washington taxes and restrictions. Our legislation keeps unnecessary red-tape out of Wyoming and protects Second Amendment rights across the country.” “Law-abiding gun owners in Wyoming should not be forced to pay excessive taxes for exercising their Second Amendment rights,” said Senator Lummis. “While President Biden and Senate Democrats continue to wrongfully target responsible gun owners, I will continue fighting to preserve the people of Wyoming’s right to keep and bear arms.” “Law-abiding Americans who exercise their Second Amendment rights should not be subject to unnecessary taxes and restrictions preventing them from doing so. Passed into law in 1934, the National Firearms Act needs to be amended. Our legislation will remove the red tape that places an undue financial burden on would-be gun owners,” said Senator Cotton. Co-sponsors of this legislation include U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and Rick Scott (R-Fla.). Full text of the legislation can be found here. Background: The 1934 National Firearms Act (NFA) regulates short-barreled shotguns and rifles, fully automatic firearms, suppressors, and a catchall category of explosives. In addition to background checks and registration, NFA regulated items have a $200 tax. The ATF has acknowledged the tax was intended “to curtail, if not prohibit, transactions” of firearms. The $200 tax, unchanged since 1934, is equivalent to $4,648 in today’s dollars. Since 2018, ownership of NFA regulated items have grown by more than 250% as more sportsmen, shooters and firearm enthusiasts exercise their Second Amendment right. The RIFLE Act does not modify the current checks and registration; it solely removes the federally mandated financial burden on law-abiding gun owners. The legislation is endorsed by the National Rifle Association and the National Shooting Sports Foundation. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/barrasso-lummis-join-bill-to-repeal-unnecessary-tax-on-firearm-purchases/,"Barrasso, Lummis Join Bill to Repeal Unnecessary Tax on Firearm Purchases",2024-05-20,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) joined U.S. Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and their colleagues in introducing the Repealing Illegal Freedom and Liberty Excises (RIFLE) Act. This legislation would remove a burdensome tax imposed on firearms regulated under the National Firearms Act. “The Second Amendment is one of our nation’s most essential safeguards. Law-abiding citizens in Wyoming responsibly use this right to keep and bear arms every day,” said Senator Barrasso. “The last thing responsible gun owners need is more burdensome Washington taxes and restrictions. Our legislation keeps unnecessary red-tape out of Wyoming and protects Second Amendment rights across the country.” “Law-abiding gun owners in Wyoming should not be forced to pay excessive taxes for exercising their Second Amendment rights,” said Senator Lummis. “While President Biden and Senate Democrats continue to wrongfully target responsible gun owners, I will continue fighting to preserve the people of Wyoming’s right to keep and bear arms.” “Law-abiding Americans who exercise their Second Amendment rights should not be subject to unnecessary taxes and restrictions preventing them from doing so. Passed into law in 1934, the National Firearms Act needs to be amended. Our legislation will remove the red tape that places an undue financial burden on would-be gun owners,” said Senator Cotton. Co-sponsors of this legislation include U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and Rick Scott (R-Fla.). Full text of the legislation can be found here. Background: The 1934 National Firearms Act (NFA) regulates short-barreled shotguns and rifles, fully automatic firearms, suppressors, and a catchall category of explosives. In addition to background checks and registration, NFA regulated items have a $200 tax. The ATF has acknowledged the tax was intended “to curtail, if not prohibit, transactions” of firearms. The $200 tax, unchanged since 1934, is equivalent to $4,648 in today’s dollars. Since 2018, ownership of NFA regulated items have grown by more than 250% as more sportsmen, shooters and firearm enthusiasts exercise their Second Amendment right. The RIFLE Act does not modify the current checks and registration; it solely removes the federally mandated financial burden on law-abiding gun owners. The legislation is endorsed by the National Rifle Association and the National Shooting Sports Foundation. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-we-must-improve-rural-health-care-access/,Barrasso: We Must Improve Rural Health Care Access,2024-05-17,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"“Whether you’re a Republican or Democrat, you’re from a state that has a lot of rural areas – you want to get doctors into those areas.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – At a recent Senate Finance Committee hearing, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) discussed health access challenges facing Wyoming with rural health experts. Barrasso specifically highlighted the need to invest in rural medical residency training programs, improve access to maternity services, and counteract the effects of rural hospital closures. Keith J. Mueller, Ph.D., Lori Rodefeld, Ms, Jeremy P. Davis, MHA, and Michael Topchik testified at Thursday’s Senate Committee on Finance hearing on Rural Health Care: Supporting Lives and Improving Communities. On Increasing Doctors in Rural Hospitals Through Training Programs “In Wyoming, our medical school works in partnership with the University of Washington, along with Montana, Alaska, and Idaho in the WWAMI program. “What we’ve found out is that giving students a rural experience and residents rural experience helps them recognize early in their career the benefits of working in rural clinics and hospitals, and hopefully then moving there and practicing there full time. “I think it’s encouraging, it’s a great recruitment tool if they have that experience. Research shows residents are more than five times more likely to then go on and practice in a rural community if their residencies are in those types of communities. “And I see Ms. Rodefeld, you agree and I’m going to have a question for you soon about OBGYN care in some of these areas. “That’s why I’ve introduced legislation called the Rural Physician Workforce Production Act to provide additional funds to rural hospitals that train residents. “Right now, so much of the funding goes to the larger community – the large city hospitals – not the rural experience. “This is political, but it’s bipartisan, because if you’re a senator – whether you’re a Republican or Democrat – you’re from a state that has a lot of rural areas. You want to get doctors into those areas. “So how could a program like this, this model for training in rural areas, actually help training programs be more viable in those locations?” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on increasing doctors in rural hospitals. On Improving Access to Maternal Care in Rural Areas “In Wyoming, due to financial strains and workforce shortages, maternity services are closing – and you’re an expert in this area. “Five of our counties have lost maternity services entirely. Seven others have minimal access to care. And it’s leaving only eleven of our twenty-three counties with adequate access to OB services. “Now, just for reference, every single county in Wyoming is larger than the entire state of Delaware or the entire state of Rhode Island. Some of our counties are larger than Connecticut, larger than the state of New Jersey. “Can you imagine if the entire state of Delaware or Rhode Island or New Jersey lost all of their OB services? You know it would be in the front page of every paper. “So what I would like to talk to you about – as the expert you are – is how we can address this crisis. “It’s a matter of health and economic viability for rural America. If you can’t provide opportunities to deliver babies or to recruit teachers, people in small businesses, all of those things. “You really were successful, I thought, in Wisconsin in crafting that residency program to be a tool to addressing rural access. “So on the federal level can we mirror the access and the success that you’ve had?” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on improving access to maternal care. On Counteracting Rural Hospital Closures “I’m there in the community a lot as rural hospitals and clinics across the country are closing at a higher rate than urban hospitals. Patients are forced to travel greater distances. “I think that telehealth has helped, but how else can we strengthen rural care so patients are not forced to drive hours for care? Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on counteracting rural hospital closures. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-whitehouse-bipartisan-national-hospital-week-resolution-passes-u-s-senate/,"Barrasso, Whitehouse Bipartisan National Hospital Week Resolution Passes U.S. Senate",2024-05-17,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) recently introduced a resolution to designate May 12 through 18, 2024 as National Hospital Week. The resolution honors the significant role hospitals and hospital staff play in patient health care across the United States. The resolution passed the U.S. Senate unanimously this week. “During National Hospital Week, we recognize and celebrate the hard work of our nation’s hospital workers,” said Senator Barrasso. “Doctors, nurses, and hospital staff across the country provide critical care and comfort to patients when they need it most. In Wyoming, we are grateful for our health care providers and support staff for their dedication to caring for patients in all our communities.” “This week we’re celebrating the many contributions hospital workers make in the delivery of high-quality care for Rhode Islanders,” said Senator Whitehouse. “The doctors, nurses, and staff who work in our local hospitals provide heroic care during some of the most challenging moments patients and their families will ever go through.” “Wyoming hospitals are a vital part to each community across the state and deserve to be celebrated and recognized. The incredible staff members, in each hospital, dedicate their lives to serving others, often putting their own safety and health in jeopardy. Hospitals are anchors in their communities. The Wyoming Hospital Association is grateful for the recognition, from Senator Barrasso and the other members of the Senate, for the incredible service healthcare workers perform. Wyomingites are blessed to have access to care in almost every community in the state. Wyoming hospitals and nursing homes employ over 32,000 employees.” – Eric Boley, Wyoming Hospital Association “The AHA commends Senators John Barrasso, Sheldon Whitehouse, Marsha Blackburn, Shelley Moore Capito, and Roger Wicker for their resolution in support of National Hospital Week. We appreciate their recognition of the important work that hospitals, nurses and other caregivers are doing for patients nationwide. We look forward to continue working with Congress to ensure that hospitals and health systems continue to be at the forefront of advancing health in each and every community.” – Lisa Kidder Hrobsky, Senior Vice President of the American Hospital Association The resolution is cosponsored by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.). The full text of the resolution can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-wy-delegation-blasts-blm-wyoming-coal-ban/,WY Delegation Blasts BLM Wyoming Coal Ban,2024-05-16,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sens. John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis and Rep. Harriet Hageman, all R-Wyo., blasted the Bureau of Land Management’s final supplemental environmental impact statement (SEIS) and proposed amendment to its Buffalo Field Office land use plan. In the plan, the BLM bans future coal leasing in Wyoming’s Powder River Basin. This impacts 12 of Wyoming’s active coal mines and will put 48 billion short-tons of BLM-administered federal coal off limits for mining. “President Biden continues to wage war on Wyoming’s coal communities and families,” said Senator Barrasso. “This short-sighted plan will kill future coal leases in Wyoming’s Powder River Basin – the most energy-rich area in the country. This will kill jobs and could cost Wyoming hundreds of millions of dollars used to pay for public schools, roads, and other essential services in our communities. Cutting off access to our strongest resources surrenders America’s greatest economic advantages – to continue producing affordable, abundant, and reliable American energy.” “I am horrified to see the Biden administration’s latest assault on our nation’s domestic energy production,” said Senator Lummis. “Wyoming has been targeted left and right by rule after rule handed down by this administration as it works to cater to the extremists within the Democratic Party. The Cowboy State produces some of the cleanest and best coal in the world. This RMP will push our country to rely on foreign adversaries for energy needs at a time when our grid is pushed to the brim and Wyoming coal is needed now more than ever to power our nation and the world. I will work with my colleagues every step of the way to prevent this RMP from going into effect.” “Joe Biden’s war on the West continues, this time by enacting an RMP that will destroy the Wyoming coal industry,” said Representative Hageman. “This decision to eviscerate Wyoming’s coal production will impact every American’s access to affordable and reliable energy, and only benefits the despots and dictators that this administration now relies on to meet our energy needs, while further weakening our economy and national security. At the same time, it will result in the need to increase coal production in countries with poor environmental and labor standards, thereby causing even more world-wide pollution – the total opposite of what this failed administration claims to be trying to accomplish. The Biden Administration’s war on affordable and reliable energy won’t end until we end his presidency.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-lauds-passage-of-resolution-rolling-back-sec-overreach/,Lummis Lauds Passage of Resolution Rolling Back SEC Overreach,2024-05-16,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) applauded the U.S. Senate passing her Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution overturning the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) 121. This resolution protects the foundation of essential custody services for consumers and deals a major blow to President Biden’s SEC that has become a runaway regulatory agency. “SAB 121 was a disaster from the start. The SEC should never set policy—over banks, no less, an industry they do not regulate—through a staff accounting bulletin. This is nothing more than this administration attempting to skirt the law while also eliminating critical consumer protections,” said Lummis. “This is a win for financial innovation and a clear rebuke of the way the Biden administration and Chair Gary Gensler have treated crypto assets and marks the first time both chambers of Congress have passed standalone crypto legislation. President Biden needs to take note of the bipartisan support this CRA received in both the House and Senate and sign this into law.” The resolution passed the Senate by a vote of 60 – 38. Background: On November 15, 2023, Senator Lummis, Representative Wiley Nickel (D-NC) and Representative Mike Flood (R-NE) sent a letter alongside Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Representatives Patrick McHenry (R-NC), French Hill (R-AR) and Ritchie Torres (D-NY) to the Federal Reserve, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Office of the Currency and the National Credit Union Administration (prudential regulators) urging them to clarify that SAB 121 is not enforceable after the Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that it is a rule for purposes of the Congressional Review Act. On February 1, 2024 Senator Lummis alongside Representatives Nickel and Flood introduced a bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Review Act resolution to overturn the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Staff Accounting Bulletin 121. The House passed the CRA resolution last week by a vote of 228 – 182. Click here to read the full text of CRA. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-demands-answers-on-biden-blocking-arms-to-israel/,Barrasso Demands Answers on Biden Blocking Arms to Israel,2024-05-15,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"“The people of Israel deserve a partner and a friend that it can trust, not one that leaves it to face terrorism and terrorists alone.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) questioned U.S. Department of State Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security Bonnie D. Jenkins on President Biden’s recent move to cut off arms shipments to Israel and the administration’s lack of progress on engaging China on its nuclear expansion. Under Secretary Jenkins testified at today’s Senate Committee on Foreign Relations hearing on the Future of Arms Control and Deterrence. On President Biden Cutting Off Arms to Israel “I want to talk about cutting off arms to Israel. Israel is one of our nation’s closest allies. “On October 7th, Hamas brutally murdered men, women, and children in Israel. I’ve seen the videos. American citizens were among the individuals killed, injured, kidnapped, and held hostage. “The death and destruction of these terrorists is shocking. Hamas continues to hide in populated areas. Hamas continues to use civilians as human shields. “With the serious threats in the region, I think it’s more important than ever for Israel to quickly receive everything it needs to defend itself, to eliminate Hamas – yet the Biden administration is doing the complete opposite at this point. “Last week, President Biden announced he was cutting off shipments of ammunition and weapons to Israel. “I’m going to be clear. This is happening while one of our strongest allies in the Middle East is at war with terrorists, murderers. “The people of Israel deserve a partner and a friend that it can trust, not one that leaves it to face terrorism and terrorists alone. “The administration should be ashamed, I believe, of its actions. These are the weapons Israel needs to defeat Hamas, to defend its people against additional attacks from Iran and from its proxies. “Last week, 48 U.S. senators introduced a resolution condemning the decision by the Biden administration. “I think we must be taking every step possible to expedite the delivery of these important weapons, not putting up new barriers and obstacles in the way. “So, do you support the U.S. blocking weapons from going to Israel?” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on President Biden cutting off arms to Israel. On Holding Up Necessary Weapons “My concern is that there are other countries looking in on this as well. And if they say, ‘well, how can we expect us to be good partners with them if at this time we’re withholding weapons?’ “So the question is, given recent reports of the administration asking for approval from Congress for a new arms shipment, why is the administration holding up weapons now? If this is something that was just approved?” Follow-up: “My follow-up to that would be that some of these bombs are to get to the fact that these tunnels are so far underground, and that’s used as a hiding place by Hamas. And we’ve seen that. “I think that’s been a surprise to many – the extent of the tunnels and the depth of the tunnels – and the intention of some of these armaments are to get specifically to that.” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on holding up necessary weapons. On Chinese Nuclear Expansion “I want to ask a question on China. During your confirmation process, you committed to me in writing that you would work with U.S. allies and partners to urge Beijing to engage meaningfully with the United States on arms control. “The 2022 Nuclear Posture Review said China has embarked on an ambitious expansion, modernization, and diversification of its nuclear forces, of which you’re well aware. “It went on to say that China expanding its nuclear options could allow for them to include nuclear coercion, and limited nuclear first use in their employment strategy. “Can you share with the committee how many engagements you actually have had with the Chinese officials – specifically on their nuclear weapons, ambitions, and expansion?” Follow-up: “It sounds like that’s not going to happen at this point.” Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks on monitoring China’s nuclear expansion. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-honors-fallen-sergeant-nevada-krinkee-of-sheridan-wyoming/,"Barrasso Honors Fallen Sergeant Nevada Krinkee of Sheridan, Wyoming",2024-05-15,2024,2024-05,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) spoke on the Senate floor during National Police Week to honor the legacy of Sergeant Nevada Krinkee of the Sheridan Police Department. Sergeant Krinkee tragically died in the line of duty in Sheridan, Wyoming, on February 13, 2024. Senator Barrasso’s Remarks: “I rise today during Police Week to pay tribute to Sergeant Nevada Krinkee, member of the police force in Sheridan, Wyoming. “Sergeant Krinkee was a beloved officer in Sheridan. He was well-known for his selflessness. His colleagues would tell you he ‘always put other people first.’ “His death in February of this year in the line of duty is absolutely tragic. It shook our state. “Sergeant Krinkee is the first officer in Wyoming since 1997 – the first one this century – to die by homicide in the line of duty. “He is the first line of duty death in the history of the Sheridan Police Department. “Sergeant Krinkee made the ultimate sacrifice for the community he loved and swore to protect. He was only 33 years old. “In March, I attended his funeral in Sheridan, Wyoming. It was so large they had to move it to the community college auditorium. “What moved me was the outpouring of folks from all around the community – as well as the state, as well as the country. “They were there to honor Sergeant Krinkee, but also to support his wife, Karla, and their young daughter, Bella. “More than 1,800 people attended in the community of Sheridan, Wyoming. They flooded in from across Wyoming and from across the country. “Many of them who were there to mourn his death and honor his family had never actually met Sergeant Krinkee. “It was the largest single event in Sheridan, Wyoming in 40 years. Forty years ago, Queen Elizabeth visited Wyoming and had a similarly sized turn-out. “Law enforcement officers traveled from every corner of our state. They came from tiny towns and also from big cities across the West. “All came to pay their respects to the man and to their brother in uniform. “As police cars escorted the family to the memorial service, citizens of Sheridan lined the streets of the community – four deep – waving American flags. Absolutely beautiful to behold. “One of the newspaper reporters asked a man from Wyoming who had driven over 100 miles to be there, why he came that far to attend the funeral. After all, this was someone who had never met or heard of Sergeant Krinkee before he had been killed. “He responded, ‘I stand for those who have stood for us, and I will until the day I die.’ “That says a lot about the people of Wyoming through and through. “One of the greatest blessings of our great nation is the men and women of law enforcement. “Police officers have one of the most dangerous and demanding jobs in our nation. And they do it with competence and compassion. “Today, officers deal with dangerous criminals. They often do this in the face of continuous criticism. It is alarming. “Police officers across the country are coming under attacks from criminals and the soft-on-crime politicians who coddle them. “Sadly, more police officers have been killed or injured by gunfire in the line of duty in 2023 than ever before. “Politicians who support criminals rather than police and demonize and defund the police hold responsibility. “The police, as a result, are demoralized and endangered. “We also see violent crime in America at a record high. Compared to 2019, murders are up 17 percent. Aggravated assaults are up 8 percent. “Let me be clear: Defunding the Police has made our communities less safe. For police officers, it has turned the badges on their sleeves into targets on their backs. “Law enforcement officers love their communities enough to give their lives to protect those communities. They are incredible men and women. To me, each one is a hero and we are grateful for each and every one of them. “They wear the badge and protect our communities despite all the risks. It is the definition of selflessness. “To the men and women of law enforcement – you are everyday heroes, and you are among us every day.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z