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://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-preckwinkle-cook-county-leaders-warn-aca-tax-credit-expiration,"Krishnamoorthi, Preckwinkle, Cook County Leaders Warn ACA Tax Credit Expiration Will Double Premiums, Strain Cook County Health and Stroger Hospital",2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) joined Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Dr. Lauren Smith, Chief Medical Officer, Donnica Austin-Cathey, Chief Hospital Executive–Stroger, and other Cook County leaders today at John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County to warn that the expiration of enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits at midnight will sharply raise health care costs and place severe strain on Cook County Health and its flagship safety-net hospital. “Letting these ACA tax credits expire isn’t an accident—it’s a choice,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. “Republican leadership must allow a vote to extend these credits and stop blocking action to protect Medicaid from devastating cuts. Without action, premiums will nearly double, families will lose coverage overnight, and Cook County Health and Illinois taxpayers will be forced to absorb the fallout.” “At Cook County Health, we will help patients navigate coverage changes, and provide the care they need, but we can not do it alone. Our efforts will not be able to offset the loss of federal support. Letting the Affordable Care Act subsidies expire will cost people in our community their insurance, their health, and in some cases, their lives. We urge policymakers to consider the consequences of allowing these subsidies to expire,” said Donnica Austin-Cathey, Chief Hospital Executive, Stroger Hospital, Cook County Health. More than 550,000 Illinois residents are enrolled in the ACA marketplace in 2025, including over 360,000 Cook County residents, roughly 90 percent of whom rely on premium tax credits to afford coverage. If the credits expire, average monthly ACA premiums in Cook County are projected to rise by about 95 percent, pricing many families out of insurance overnight. Health care leaders warned that coverage losses will hit safety-net hospitals first. In 2023, charity and discounted care at John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital totaled nearly $140 million, almost six times more than the next closest hospital in Illinois. Increased uncompensated care is expected to place additional financial pressure on Cook County Health and local taxpayers. The ACA coverage cliff comes as Cook County Health faces additional strain from President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which cut Medicaid by more than $1 trillion nationwide and imposed new work requirements. More than 3 million Illinois residents—one in four statewide—depend on Medicaid, which accounts for approximately 56 percent of Cook County Health’s patient revenue. The system estimates it could lose $88 million annually in Medicaid reimbursements as patients lose coverage. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://lahood.house.gov/2025/12/lahood-announces-winner-and-runner-up-of-the-2025-congressional-app-challenge,LaHood Announces Winner and Runner-up of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge,2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Representative Darin LaHood (IL-16) announced today Kavi Praanesh of Dunlap High School as the winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for Illinois' 16th District. Kavi developed an application titled ""MeloCognia,"" using Python and C/C++ as her programming language. MeloCognia is an AI powered health assistant designed to help detect Parkinson's in its early stages. The runner-up, Agrini Neekhra of Dunlap High School, developed an app titled ""Febrile Neutropenia Intervention eXpert"" (FENIX), which works to combat the issue of delayed antibiotic treatment in pediatric febrile neutropenic patients. “My office has been proud to host the Congressional App Challenge for the past 10 years to encourage students in the 16th Congressional District to pursue their passion in STEM fields,” said Rep. LaHood. “Each year, I have been amazed by the talent of our students and the creativity of the applications they put together to solve real-world problems and improve the lives of others. I want to congratulate this year's winner Kavi, and our runner-up Agrini, for their outstanding work in this competition and developing two incredible apps. Thank you to all the students who participated and made this year's Congressional App Challenge a success!” ""I was inspired to create MeloCognia after seeing my grandfather struggle with Parkinson’s, as he wasn’t diagnosed until the disease had already heavily impacted his daily life and treatment options were limited,"" said Kavi. ""That experience made me realize how hard early detection can be and how much the delay can cost patients. MeloCognia is an AI-powered health assistant that uses voice analysis and symptom tracking to provide fast, accessible early screening, giving users a quick insight in minutes that encourages them to seek medical evaluation sooner."" ""The Congressional App Challenge has given me the incredible opportunity to explore new fields. Before my app, I had never coded before and teaching myself was a great experience for me to build the skill and perseverance,"" said Agrini. ""FENIX is an app aiming to prioritize the small details in healthcare systems that may go unnoticed and improve diagnosis and treatment times. Oftentimes, chemo patients with compromised immune systems will need to receive a straightforward antibiotic treatment. However, delivery system variability and delays can prolong the treatment process, increasing mortality rates. FENIX helps to predict that delay and alert healthcare personnel to prioritize those patients. Being named runner-up for Congressman LaHood's Congressional App Challenge is a great honor and encourages me to keep developing my programming skills to create stronger, improved healthcare delivery initiatives. I am very grateful for this program and hope that all students see coding as an outlet to make their own mark on the world."" Background: The Congressional App Challenge is an annual competition hosted by the U.S. House of Representatives aimed at encouraging students to pursue careers in STEM fields. Since its inception in 2015, the Challenge has grown to become the largest student computer science competition in the United States. The 2025 Congressional App Challenge set new records including: Largest student participation with 13,830 students competing across the U.S. 4,650 original applications submitted - an increase of nearly 800 from 2024 Over 56% of this year's applications incorporated Artificial Intelligence The winner will receive an invitation to demonstrate their application in Washington, D.C., have their application featured on the House of Representatives website, www.house.gov, and receive a copyright fee waiver provided through the Arts Act. A video link to the winning group’s application can be found here.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-highlights-key-2025-efforts-as-2025-draws-to-a-close,Duckworth Highlights Key 2025 Efforts as 2025 Draws to a Close,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – As 2025 comes to a close, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) highlighted several key accomplishments she secured over the last year: “Whether helping nearly 2,900 Illinoisans recover more than $13 million the federal government owed them, passing a law making it easier for new parents to travel with critical breast milk supplies, pushing back against Trump and Republicans as they work to jack up costs for everything from groceries to health care, fighting Donald Trump’s illegal and reckless invasion of our state or getting Veterans’ jobs back after this Administration cruelly fired Veterans Crisis Line workers—I’m proud of everything we’ve been able to do this past year,” Duckworth said. “While this year was far too difficult for far too many in our community, I am as committed as ever to showing up and getting things done for my fellow Illinoisans—and all those who feel targeted by the Trump Administration. I look forward to continuing my work for our state in 2026.” Over the past year, Duckworth and her office responded to over 1,047,000 emails as well as other messages and assisted more than 2,800 Illinoisans who were experiencing difficulties navigating the federal bureaucracy, helping recover more than $13.2 million in Social Security payments, Veterans’ benefits, tax refunds and more for her constituents. A select list of Duckworth’s accomplishments from the past year is below. Duckworth hosted a series of town halls and telephone town halls this year to hear directly from her constituents on how the Trump Administration is negatively impacting their lives and the lives of their families and communities, hearing from Illinoisans in McHenry County, Rockford, Carbondale and throughout Chicagoland. Key Efforts: Duckworth’s Bipartisan BABES Enhancement Act Became Law: After passing the House and unanimously passing the Senate, bipartisan legislation authored and championed by Senator Duckworth to make it easier for parents to safely embark on air travel with breast milk and breastfeeding supplies became one of roughly 30 bills to be signed into law in 2025. Senator Duckworth’s Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening (BABES) Enhancement Act requires the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to clarify and regularly update guidance on handling breast milk, baby formula and other related nutrition products, including ice packs, in consultation with leading maternal health groups. Fighting to Prevent Healthcare Costs from Skyrocketing: As Republicans time and again voted to gut Medicaid with Trump’s Big, Beautiful Betrayal and did nothing to stop health insurance premiums from skyrocketing, Senator Duckworth fought against these efforts at every turn. She voted against the Republicans’ Big Beautiful Bill and voted against all of Republicans’ extreme partisan funding bills. She met with health care leaders throughout Central Illinois, Southern Illinois and the Chicagoland area to discuss how these cuts will impact health care access for all Illinoisans. Trump and Republicans plunged the nation into the longest government shutdown in history to guarantee that out-of-pocket health care costs will skyrocket, refusing to negotiate an extension of the Affordable Care Act (ACA)’s enhanced premium tax credits set to expire at the end of the year. Duckworth continuously called out Republicans for refusing to help stop health insurance bills from doubling or even tripling for millions of hardworking families, including their own constituents. Then, in December, when Republicans finally had the chance to vote to extend these ACA subsidies, they chose to please Donald Trump and his billionaire buddies rather than serve the tens of millions of Americans who will see their premiums rise—or the four million who will lose coverage entirely. Defending Reproductive Freedom and Expanding Access to IVF: Senator Duckworth has been a strong advocate for reproductive freedom and access to IVF in the face of Republicans’ anti-choice crusade. In June, she introduced the Protect IVF Act to establish a nationwide right to IVF. She has also long pushed to pass her Right to IVF Act—which Senate Republicans blocked not once, but twice last year—that would both establish a right to IVF and other assisted reproductive technology (ART), expand access for hopeful parents, Veterans and federal employees, as well as lower the costs of IVF for middle-class families across the country. This year, Duckworth successfully secured a provision in the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act requiring TRICARE coverage of fertility services, including IVF, for servicemembers, reflecting her earlier IVF for Military Families Act. However, Speaker Mike Johnson single-handedly blocked her provision, denying troops the same IVF coverage available to Members of Congress despite broad bipartisan support in both the House and the Senate. This is the second time Duckworth secured this provision in an NDAA bill that passed committee, only to have Republicans block her amendment from the final NDAA—despite it being included in the committee-approved version. Protecting Our State from Trump’s Unlawful Domestic Deployment: Senator Duckworth, alongside Governor Pritzker and Senator Durbin, helped lead our state’s effective pushback against the Trump Administration’s unconstitutional and dangerous deployments of National Guard troops into American cities, including Chicago. She singlehandedly secured the first and only Senate hearing on Trump’s domestic deployments, during which top Trump Defense officials admitted to three damning revelations that had never been publicly stated before. In addition to numerous actions, including visiting Naval Station Great Lakes amid threats to deploy the military to Chicago and filing an amicus brief with the Ninth Circuit against Trump for his misuse of the U.S. military, Duckworth successfully advanced her Military in Law Enforcement Accountability Act to finally help rein in Trump’s continued misuse of our military and troops. Pushing Back on DHS’ Invasion on Chicago: In light of Trump’s “Operation Midway Blitz,” Senator Duckworth continued her efforts as an outspoken champion for defending Illinoisans and their First Amendment rights. She condemned DHS’s excessive and aggressive force, including unlawful abductions, deploying tear gas near schools and raiding community shelters. Additionally, she demanded an end to forcing law enforcement to abandon criminal investigations in order to assist ICE and called on ICE and CBP to enforce body-camera requirements in compliance with federal orders. Duckworth and Senator Durbin also visited the grounds of the Broadview ICE processing center in their congressional oversight roles. Supporting Servicemembers and Holding Pete Hegseth Accountable for Putting Them at Needless Risk: As a combat Veteran and member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), Senator Duckworth has condemned Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s lack of experience or qualifications to lead our troops, repeatedly calling on him to resign, especially after reports confirmed he sent highly-sensitive war plans in an unclassified group chat with other Trump Administration officials, putting servicemembers at greater risk and undermining mission effectiveness. She denounced the Trump Administration’s unlawful military strikes and supported a resolution to block illegal use of force in or against Venezuela without congressional approval, while raising concerns about violating the laws of war and endangering our servicemembers and national security. Supporting Our Veterans: After Trump fired more Veterans than any other President in history and imposed illegal pauses in federal funding and slashed Veterans’ care, Senator Duckworth continued her life’s mission of advocating for our brave servicemembers and their families affected by Trump’s recklessness. This year, she introduced legislation to protect the lifesaving Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) and restore collective bargaining rights for VA health care professionals. She demanded accountability from Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins for the VCL firings. She also introduced her Protect Veteran Jobs Act to reinstate Veterans who were fired from their jobs as part of Trump and Elon Musk’s indiscriminate purge of federal employees. Duckworth spoke at the “Unite for Veterans” rally on the National Mall, criticizing Trump for using Veterans as political pawns and undermining their care and benefits. She also hosted a Veterans town hall in Crystal Lake to hear directly from Veterans about the impact of the Trump Administration and Elon Musk’s cuts to federal programs and mass federal worker firings. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-delauro-warren-renew-fight-pass-part-time-worker-bill-rights-act,"Schakowsky, DeLauro, Warren Renew Fight to Pass Part-Time Worker Bill of Rights Act",2025-12-24,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) and Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), joined U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) in reintroducing the Part-Time Worker Bill of Rights Act, legislation created to strengthen protections for part-time workers and allow them to better balance their work schedules with personal and family needs. The legislation will address one of the primary issues that hourly workers face - work schedules that do not provide as many hours as they need to support their families - and provide additional protections and benefits for part-time workers. “Part-time workers across the country deserve better. More than one in five American workers are part-time and they face volatile work hours, unstable incomes, and low wages,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “I reintroduced the Part-Time Worker Bill of Rights Act with my colleagues Representative DeLauro and Senator Warren to ensure equitable workplace treatment and conditions for part-time workers. This legislation requires employers to treat part-time and full-time employees impartially and gives part-time workers access to stable hours and medical leave. We must improve the quality of part-time work for millions of families across the country.” ""Part-time workers are crucial to the strength of our economy,"" said Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro. ""Yet, far too often, these workers are at a disadvantage when it comes to the stability, opportunity, and benefits that are afforded to full-time employees. The Part Time Workers Bill of Rights Act provides part-time workers with the peace of mind they deserve by ensuring they have access to additional hours and receive benefits like Family and Medical Leave and retirement plans, which we know are crucial to the well-being of our workers and their families. I am glad to partner with Congresswoman Schakowsky and Senator Warren on this issue."" “Every worker deserves a chance at providing for themselves and their families, but greedy giant corporations are using loopholes to exploit part-time workers instead,” said Senator Elizabeth Warren. “I’m fighting hard to pass the Part-Time Worker Bill of Rights and ensure companies put their workers over profits.” Corporations often attempt to avoid providing workers benefits and higher wages by giving part-time workers fewer hours than they want and spreading work among many part-time employees rather than hiring full-time employees. This month, Starbucks agreed to pay $38.9 million to settle claims it violated New York law by failing to provide regular schedules to employees, cutting workers' scheduled hours without their consent, and giving shifts to new hires first instead of to existing employees. The Part-Time Worker Bill of Rights Act would: Require employers to offer available hours to current, available, qualified part-time employees before hiring new employees or subcontractors. The legislation requires employers with more than 15 workers to compensate existing employees if they hire new employees instead of assigning new work to available, qualified, existing employees. This provision is based on successful access to hours ordinances in cities across the country, including those in Chicago, Emeryville, New York City, Philadelphia, San Francisco, San Jose, and Seattle. Make more part-time employees eligible for family and medical leave. The legislation guarantees any employee who has worked for their employer for at least a year access to federal leave protections under the Family and Medical Leave Act. Allow part-time workers to participate in their employers’ pension plans. The legislation amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 to give part-time workers who have worked at least 500 hours for two consecutive years access to retirement plans if they are offered by their employers to full-time workers. The Part-Time Worker Bill of Rights Act is supported by: 9to5, A Better Balance, Action for Children, AFL-CIO, African American Health Alliance, All-Options, American Association of University Women, Americans for Democratic Action (ADA), Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, BreastfeedLA, Catch Fire Movement, CDF, Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), Center for Popular Democracy, CenterLink: The Community of LGBT Centers, Chicago Foundation for Women, Child Care Aware of America, Citizen Action of New York, Coalition for Social Justice, Coalition of Labor Union Women, Coalition on Human Needs, Connecticut Women's Education and Legal Fund (CWEALF), Economic Policy Institute, Equal Rights Advocates, Every Texan, Faith in Public Life, Family Values @ Work, Healthy Nourishment, Jobs With Justice, Justice for Migrant Women, Kentucky Equal Justice Center, Legal Aid at Work, Legal Momentum, The Women's Legal Defense and Education Fund, MANA - A National Latina Organization, MomsRising, National Black Worker Center, National Coalition for Asian Pacific American Community Development, National Center for Law and Economic Justice, National Council of Jewish Women, National Employment Law Project, National Employment Lawyers Association, National Organization for Women, National Partnership for Women & Families, National Women's Law Center, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, Network of Jewish Human, Service Agencies, North Carolina Justice Center, Oxfam America, Poligon Education Fund, Public Justice Center, ROC United, Service Employees International Union, Shriver Center on Poverty Law, Start Early, Sugar Law Center for Economic & Social Justice, TakeAction Minnesota, The National Domestic Violence Hotline, United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, United for Respect, We All Rise, Women and Girls Foundation of Southwest PA, Women Employed, Women's Fund of Rhode Island, Women's Law Project, Women's Media Center, Workplace Fairness, YWCA of the University of Illinois, YWCA USA, ZERO TO THREE. The legislators also introduced the Schedules That Work Act, complementary legislation to help ensure that low-wage employees have more certainty about their work schedules and income. The Schedules That Work Act protects workers who ask for schedule changes from retaliation and requires employers to consider their requests. For retail, food service, and cleaning occupations, it requires employers to provide schedules two weeks in advance. The legislation also provides compensation to these employees when their schedules change abruptly or they are assigned to particularly difficult shifts, including split shifts and call-in shifts. A recent Berkely study found that unpredictable schedules - which often mean lack of access to enough working hours - are associated with financial insecurity, housing insecurity, high stress, poor health outcomes, and, for parents, less time spent with children, which, in turn, leads to worse outcomes for children. One study found that 65% of respondents with part-time jobs had dealt with ""at least one serious material hardship"" in the past year. Workers facing these challenges are disproportionately women and workers of color as exposure to schedule instability is 16% higher among workers of color compared to white workers. Laws to help workers access more work hours have already been passed as part of fair workweek laws across the country, including in Chicago, Emeryville, California; New York City; Philadelphia; San Francisco; San Jose; Seattle; and SeaTac, Washington. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-statement-on-trumps-va-abortion-ban-that-denies-millions-of-veterans-the-care-theyve-earned,Duckworth Statement on Trump’s VA Abortion Ban That Denies Millions of Veterans the Care They’ve Earned,2025-12-24,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement after the Trump Administration quietly implemented a policy banning the VA from providing abortion care to Veterans and their families—including in cases of rape, incest or to protect the health of the mother—despite widespread opposition from advocates and the Veteran community: “Our Veterans risked their lives to safeguard our freedoms. And yet a man who has never served a day in his life is taking away their own freedom to choose what's best for their health. “In cases of rape, incest or when the health of the mother is at risk, Trump is denying our heroes the care they’ve earned through their service—and it’ll be those living in states with extreme abortion bans who will suffer the most. “Trump implemented this extreme policy during the holiday season, quietly and over the objections of Veterans, thinking we wouldn’t notice. Well, we did. And I will keep fighting to give Veterans and all Americans the health care and reproductive freedom they deserve.” -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-demands-answers-after-hhs-cuts-pediatric-health,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Demands Answers After HHS Cuts Pediatric Health Grants Following Criticism of RFK Jr. by the American Academy of Pediatrics,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) sent a letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. expressing grave concern over the Department’s decision to terminate more than $18 million in federal grants awarded to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), warning that the move threatens critical child health initiatives nationwide and raises serious questions about political retaliation and the integrity of federal public health funding. In the letter, Congressman Krishnamoorthi emphasized that the AAP, headquartered in Itasca, Illinois, represents more than 67,000 pediatricians nationwide and has served for nearly a century as a cornerstone of evidence-based pediatric care and public health: The terminated grants supported programs aimed at reducing sudden infant death, improving adolescent health outcomes, preventing fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, and ensuring early identification of autism. The Department has stated that these initiatives “no longer align with the Department’s mission or priorities,” a justification Congressman Krishnamoorthi sharply questioned. “I find it profoundly disturbing that preventing infant deaths, protecting adolescent health, and identifying developmental disabilities early are now considered misaligned with the mission of the federal agency charged with safeguarding public health,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote in his letter. “The funding cancellations came shortly after the AAP challenged Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s vaccine policies in federal court, raising serious concerns that this action may represent retaliation against a respected medical organization for exercising its legal rights and defending science-based public health policy.” The letter raises particular concern about the timing of the cancellations, noting that the funding terminations occurred shortly after the AAP challenged Secretary Kennedy’s vaccine policies in federal court. Emphasizing the responsibilities of HHS and its subagencies, including the CDC and HRSA, the letter underscores that public health funding decisions must be guided by science rather than ideology. To better understand how the Department is making grant funding decisions, Congressman Krishnamoorthi requested that HHS provide responses to the following questions by January 20, 2026: All documents and communications related to the decision to cancel $18.6 million in grants to the American Academy of Pediatrics. An outline of projects and initiatives that will be funded to replace work that AAP was performing in relation to sudden infant deaths, adolescent health, fetal alcohol syndrome prevention, and early autism detection. HHS, CDC, and HRSA’s banned words and ideologies when considering projects for federal funding. A list of all HHS, CDC, and HRSA projects that have been cancelled because they “no longer align with the Department’s mission or priorities.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-sounds-alarm-over-doj-diverting-fbi,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Sounds Alarm Over DOJ Diverting FBI Counterterrorism and Counterintelligence Resources to Mass Immigration Raids,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) today sent a letter to FBI Director Kash Patel raising serious concerns that the Department of Justice has diverted FBI counterterrorism and counterintelligence personnel away from their core national security missions and reassigned them to support mass immigration enforcement operations, putting the United States at risk. In the letter, Congressman Krishnamoorthi warned that senior DOJ officials have redirected personnel and assets from the FBI’s core mission despite the Bureau’s own assessment that terrorists and nation-state adversaries pose the most immediate threats to the homeland: “Over the last year, senior officials have reassigned personnel and assets from the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) core national security mission to immigration enforcement, leaving counterterrorism and counterintelligence work compromised and putting our national security at risk.” The letter cites reporting that early in 2025, DOJ leadership directed FBI Joint Terrorism Task Forces to assist with immigration initiatives, requiring agents responsible for terrorism investigations, espionage detection, and cyber threat monitoring to prioritize immigration enforcement over national security work: “Agents responsible for espionage detection cyber threat monitoring, and terrorism investigation, therefore, were required to prioritize immigration enforcement, giving less attention to crucial national security threats.” Despite a rise in alleged terrorist incidents across the United States, the letter notes that a significant share of the Bureau remains diverted: “Nearly a quarter of the FBI’s roughly 13,000 agents nationwide, and up to 40 percent in the largest field offices, remain assigned to immigration enforcement duties.” Congressman Krishnamoorthi further highlighted reporting that analysts tracking terrorist financing, money laundering, and the illicit trade in looted antiquities, as well as investigations into the Iranian oil black market used to finance terrorism, have been delayed by months: “Internal sources further indicate that these core national security investigations, including into the black market for Iranian oil sold to finance terrorism, have been delayed by months.” According to additional reporting cited in the letter, the diversion of counterterrorism and counterintelligence personnel has halted critical investigations: “The shift of resources from counterterrorism and counterintelligence teams, including many FBI personnel working years-long complex investigations involving classified techniques and sources, have caused several critical investigations to stop.” The letter also raises alarm that counterintelligence specialists with deep expertise on China, Russia, and Iran have been reassigned to immigration cases, limiting enforcement of the Foreign Agents Registration Act and allowing foreign intelligence operatives greater freedom to operate inside the United States: “These shifts have limited investigations into violations of the Foreign Agents Registration Act and have allowed foreign intelligence operatives greater room to maneuver within the United States.” Emphasizing the FBI’s statutory mandate, the letter warns: “Its counterintelligence and counterterrorism components exist to detect and disrupt the activities of hostile foreign actors, not to conduct civil immigration enforcement or unrelated administrative duties.” In light of these concerns, Congressman Krishnamoorthi asked the FBI to promptly provide detailed answers to the following questions: To what extent have FBI personnel assigned to counterintelligence, counterterrorism, or related national security missions been redirected to assist with immigration enforcement or other non–national security duties? How have these reassignments affected FBI’s ability to investigate and disrupt espionage, terrorism, cyber intrusions, and other national security threats? Have any ongoing national security or counterterrorism investigations—such as the probe into the Iranian oil black market or cases involving foreign influence operations—been delayed, suspended, or deprioritized because of these diversions? Were formal operational risk assessments or impact analyses conducted prior to redirecting these agents, and if so, what did they conclude? What steps, if any, has the Bureau taken to return these personnel to their original counterintelligence and counterterrorism assignments and to restore full operational readiness in these mission areas? What mechanisms or internal controls will be implemented to prevent future diversions of national security resources for purposes unrelated to the FBI’s statutory counterintelligence and counterterrorism missions?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-urges-education-department-reverse-cuts-illinois,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Urges Education Department to Reverse Cuts to Illinois Community Schools,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) today called on the Department of Education to reverse its decision to cancel Full-Service Community Schools (FSCS) grants across Illinois, warning that the move would eliminate critical student supports and undermine years of federal investment. In a letter to Education Secretary Linda McMahon, Congressman Krishnamoorthi raised concerns about the cancellation of $18.5 million in annual funding and more than $55 million over the remaining grant period for FSCS programs statewide. “In Illinois, FSCS grants support 16 school districts and 32 schools across Illinois, serving approximately 19,000 students annually,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote in the letter. “These grant programs serve rural, suburban, and urban students alike, partnering with schools and families to ensure programs are responsive to the unique needs of each community. They provide essential family engagement, nutrition programs, academic enrichment, mental health supports, and workforce-aligned partnerships. FSCS grants are lifelines for the children and families who rely on them, ensuring that our kids remain safe and supported as they learn.” Congressman Krishnamoorthi warned that the tens of millions of dollars in funding cuts would have immediate and severe consequences. When students return from winter break this January, they will face dramatically reduced support, undoing years of federal investment in future generations. The congressman accused the Trump administration of politicizing children’s programs and education.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-responds-supreme-court-ruling-blocking-trumps-chicago-national,"Krishnamoorthi Responds to Supreme Court Ruling Blocking Trump’s Chicago National Guard Deployment, Urges Passage of His Stop Trump’s Abuse of Power Act",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) issued the following statement after the Supreme Court of the United States declined to allow President Trump to proceed with a National Guard deployment into Chicago: “Today’s Supreme Court decision blocking President Trump’s attempt to deploy the National Guard into the Chicago area is an important step forward in stopping a clear abuse of his office—but it applies only to this case. I introduced the Stop Trump’s Abuse of Power Act to clarify and limit a president’s authority to deploy the military or National Guard to any American city and prevent the use of servicemembers as political props. Congress must act to ensure President Trump cannot misuse our servicemembers this way again. Illinois has stood united in opposing this illegal and political deployment since day one, and I applaud Governor Pritzker’s leadership as we all fight back together. We will continue to stand united no matter what this administration throws our way.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases/underwood-details-systemic-issues-during-inspections-ice-detention-and,"Underwood Details Systemic Issues During Inspections of ICE Detention and Processing Facilities in Chicago, Lombard, and Bunker Hill, Indiana",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Lauren Underwood,U000040,underwood.house.gov,underwood,https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BUNKER HILL, IN. — Today, Representative Lauren Underwood of the House Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee conducted an oversight visit with staff to the Miami Correctional Facility in Bunker Hill, Indiana, one of the primary facilities used to hold Illinoisians during Operation Midway Blitz. Yesterday, Underwood and staff conducted oversight visits to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago Field Office, located in downtown Chicago, and the ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Chicago Field Office, located in Lombard, Illinois. These visits build on her recent inspection of the Broadview Processing Center following widespread community outrage at Operation Midway Blitz’s constitutional violations and ongoing questions about federal immigration enforcement practices across Illinois and the nation. Underwood received briefings from leadership of all three facilities and toured the premises, including intake rooms, holding spaces, storage areas, and officer work areas. The visits occurred as dozens of constituents across her community continue to report being detained, confronted, or questioned by federal immigration enforcement personnel. For months, the Illinois delegation received no timely responses from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to basic inquiries regarding the safety or location of constituents impacted by the operation. “For months, the Trump Administration has trampled over our Constitution and failed to answer even the most basic questions about how they are conducting immigration enforcement,” said Underwood. “My visits this week exposed serious breakdowns in how people are tracked, cared for, and treated across ICE facilities. People deserve to know the truth about what is happening in our communities, how federal resources are being used in their name, and how these so-called immigration enforcement operations are being run.” Miami Correctional Facility (Bunker Hill, IN) The Miami Correctional Facility is a state prison for adult male inmates located on the site of the former Grissom Joint Air Reserve Base. In August 2025, DHS announced that it had contracted with the state of Indiana to house up to 1,000 detained migrants at this facility using funding from the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” under the 287(g) program, which authorizes ICE to delegate certain immigration enforcement functions to state and local law enforcement entities. Because Illinois state law prohibits ICE detention facilities, ICE houses Illinoisans at out-of-state facilities including Miami. Underwood inspected the portions of the facility used for ICE detention, where 550 people are currently detained. During her visit, Underwood spoke with seven detainees. Five of the seven reported problems with ICE’s Online Detainee Locator System that delayed their families’ ability to find them, despite staff’s claim that detainees should show up in the system within a couple of hours. Two reported experiencing delays in accessing medical care even after requesting it. For example, ICE staff claimed that medicine refills are available upon request, while detainees reported that refills can take up to two months. Another detainee reported that ICE told him they had lost all of his belongings, including money and photographs of deceased family. Detainees also reported difficulty accessing basic hygiene needs such as nail clippers. Underwood was told that breakfast is served from 4:00 – 6:00 AM, but some detainees have reported sleep disruptions from being served breakfast as early as 3:30 AM. Underwood was told lunch is from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM and dinner is served after 3:00 PM. Prison staff claimed that detainees get one hour of outside recreation per day, five days a week. Staff informed Underwood that detainees can play soccer or basketball outside and basketball, foosball, or pool inside during adverse weather events. The only shoes provided by the prison are plastic clogs, which are worn indoors, outdoors (even in winter), and in showers. Detainees reported that these shoes often wore out quickly and failed to keep their feet dry. Underwood was told that detainees have the ability to turn the lights in their cells on and off, but they did not function properly when Underwood tested them. There are weekly Catholic, general Christian, and Muslim services in English and one weekly Catholic Mass in Spanish. ICE does not permit detainees to lead their own services, so detainees seeking other religious services are dependent on outside volunteers. There is currently a need for Hindu, Sikh, and Buddhist volunteers to lead services. Religious literature may be donated to the facility, and staff report high demand for Spanish-language Bibles and other Spanish-language materials. Prison staff informed Underwood that they contract with Centurion Health for medical care for detainees, which has subcontractors for different types of care. The infirmary is the only part of the Miami complex shared between ICE and the Indiana Department of Corrections. The facility has two dentists, one psychiatrist, one registered nurse, one certified nursing assistant, and sometimes one licensed practical nurse. There are four dental chairs and four infirmary rooms with six hospital beds in each one, plus two isolation rooms for patients with communicable diseases. Underwood was told that detainees should receive a medical, dental, and mental health assessment within their first 14 days. In medical emergencies, detainees are transported to Dukes Memorial Hospital in Peru, Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne, Community Howard Regional Health in Kokomo for cardiac care, or hospitals in Indianapolis if needed. Attorney consultations are mostly conducted via video call, with some in-person visits. There is a private area available for detainees to meet with attorneys, but attorneys must make an appointment to reserve the room for a virtual meeting. This room is also used for detainees to meet with consulate representatives from their home countries, and for credible fear interviews conducted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officials. There is also a room where detainees are supposed to be able to meet with a counselor or caseworker, but one was not present during Underwood’s visit. There is also a courtroom onsite. Judges are responsible for arranging translation if needed for onsite court proceedings. Deportation flights are conducted three times a week out of Gary, IN, Indianapolis, IN, or Kansas City, MO. Detainees can file a paper form to request access to a “law library” that does not contain a book collection. Prison staff shared with Underwood that detainees can access LexisNexis on a tablet issued to all detainees; Underwood was told that ICE determines what can be accessed on the tablet. The “law library” has a printer and 11 computers without internet access, which can be used to write letters and fill out forms. Staff claimed that stamps are available for purchase at the commissary, which detainees can use to send mail, and that detainees can ask staff for assistance locating and printing specific forms. However, detainees reported that they were unable to purchase stamps or envelopes, or to print or email legal materials needed to support their cases. Staff onsite were not familiar with the privacy waiver required for Congressional casework, but Underwood secured their commitment to make this form available to detainees in the “law library.” The telephone vendor for this facility is Talton Communications. Detainees are assigned a personal identification number (PIN), which is required to call their families or attorneys, and it takes one day to get the PIN. There is a fee for calls which can be paid by cash, card, or money order; funds must be uploaded to a prepaid card through Numi Financial. Detainees can request phone numbers, such as for consulates, and can make international calls. Families who wish to call the facility should dial 866-348-6231. ERO (Enforcement and Removal) Chicago Field Office (Chicago, IL) The ERO Chicago Field Office serves as the ICE ERO hub for Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Missouri, Kentucky, and Kansas, overseeing immigration enforcement activities across this region. It is intended as an administrative and operational field office rather than a detention center, but there have been reports of overcrowding as it has been used to hold larger numbers of people during Operation Midway Blitz. There are 50-60 ICE ERO officers at this office currently, in addition to support staff. Underwood was told an additional 60 will be starting next week. Security personnel employed by Allied Universal are also contracted to watch camera footage of holding cells onsite and to patrol the entrance of the building (which houses other government agencies as well). Underwood was told that the office will soon expand into the 5th floor of the building to add more cubicles. This increase is part of ICE ERO’s goal of hiring 805 new officers across the six-state region. Underwood was told that new hires at ICE ERO have a failure rate of up to 30% due to academic issues, physical fitness, failed background checks, and injuries, and that ICE Academy abbreviated its training program from 60 days to 40 days earlier this year. Underwood inspected holding areas and found inconsistencies in the furnishings and informational resources available in different units. For example, a female unit did not contain an informational poster on how to file a report under the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), while a male unit did. Underwood was told by ICE ERO staff that families with children may be held at this location. Staff reported that detainees are not held overnight at this facility. Detainees are typically transferred from this facility to Broadview in the afternoon, around 3-4 PM. ICE ERO staff informed Underwood that in medical emergencies, staff call 911. First responders choose where to transport detainees, often Rush University Medical Center. ICE ERO staff allow prescription medication to be brought to detainees if it is in a prescription bottle labeled with the detainee’s name. ICE ERO staff claimed that detainees are supposed to appear in the agency’s Online Detainee Locator System as soon as they are booked. Underwood examined paperwork instructing detainees to provide the full names of family members accompanying them for appointments; staff alleged that this information is recorded but not used for any purpose. This raised concerns about potential tracking and targeting of mixed status families, contrary to the DHS’s purported focus on targeting violent criminals. Detainee phone calls are monitored, including calls with attorneys and family. The only stated exceptions are calls to hotlines (such as a sexual assault hotline or pro bono attorney access). Phone calls cost money which can be paid by debit or collect. The telephone vendor for this facility is Talton Communication. Translation services are provided over the phone by Lionbridge. ICE ERO staff reported that the Chicago regional immigration court docket currently has 260,000 cases pending, with 11,000-12,000 people enrolled in Alternatives to Detention (ATD). ICE HSI Chicago Field Office (Lombard, IL) The HSI Chicago Field Office oversees ICE HSI operations across Illinois, Indiana, and the southern half of Wisconsin. ICE HSI employs over 400 staff across this tristate area, including 100 new hires this year. ICE HSI officers previously focused on investigating crimes of exploitation, such as child exploitation, sex trafficking, and human trafficking, but under the Trump Administration, their time has been diverted from that mission to an immigration enforcement mission. Funding from the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” has been used to rehire 40 retired ICE HSI agents for the sole purpose of immigration enforcement. Prior to Operation Midway Blitz, about 10% of HSI agents joined ERO officers in the field; during Operation Midway Blitz that proportion has risen to 30%, with about 25 HSI agents in the field each day. HSI investigates cases involving alleged assaults on ERO officers; cases involving alleged assaults on Border Patrol officers are split between HSI and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Underwood inspected holding cells and was informed by ICE HSI staff that families with children may be held at this location. ICE HSI staff informed Underwood that detainees are not held overnight at this location; instead, they are either released, taken to appear before a federal judge at the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, or transferred to the Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC) in Chicago or the Cook County Department of Corrections. ICE HSI staff informed Underwood that there is no onsite medical care; in medical emergencies, staff call 911. ICE HSI staff reported that people detained at this facility do not appear in ICE’s Online Detainee Locator System. This facility does not have phones for detainees to use. Detainees may make calls from their personal cell phones, which are monitored by an HSI agent. Detainees are only given the opportunity to make a phone call upon request. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-statement-on-supreme-court-ruling-blocking-deployment-of-national-guard-troops-to-chicago,"Duckworth, Durbin Statement on Supreme Court Ruling Blocking Deployment of National Guard Troops to Chicago",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"[CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement after the Supreme Court declined to stay a federal judge’s temporary restraining order that blocked President Trump’s plans to deploy the National Guard to Chicago: “It’s long past time for the Trump Administration to back off Chicago. The majority of Americans believe they’ve gone too far, and even the Supreme Court’s conservative supermajority refused to greenlight this blatantly unlawful overreach. Our government is supposed to help our communities—not go to war with them. “Immigrants make our country better, and we will keep fighting like hell to protect the promise of America.” -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-statement-on-supreme-court-ruling-blocking-deployment-of-national-guard-troops-to-chicago,"Durbin, Duckworth Statement On Supreme Court Ruling Blocking Deployment Of National Guard Troops To Chicago",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) released the following statement after the Supreme Court declined to stay a federal judge’s temporary restraining order that blocked President Trump’s plans to deploy the National Guard to Chicago: “It’s long past time for the Trump Administration to back off Chicago. The majority of Americans believe they’ve gone too far, and even the Supreme Court’s conservative supermajority refused to greenlight this blatantly unlawful overreach. Our government is supposed to help our communities—not go to war with them. “Immigrants make our country better, and we will keep fighting like hell to protect the promise of America.” -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/los-representantes-garcia-davis-ramirez-y-jackson-inspeccionan-el-centro-de-procesamiento-de-ice-en-broadview,"Los Representantes García, Davis, Ramírez y Jackson Inspeccionan el Centro de Procesamiento de ICE en Broadview",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CHICAGO — Hoy, los Congresistas federales Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Delia C. Ramírez (IL-03) y Jonathan Jackson (IL-01) regresaron al Centro de Procesamiento de ICE en Broadview, Illinois, para una visita de supervisión. Un tribunal federal confirmó el 17 de diciembre que la Administración Trump no puede impedir que los miembros del Congreso realicen supervisen los centros de detención de inmigrantes. En la conferencia de prensa, los representantes estuvieron acompañados por Erendira Rendon, vicepresidenta de Justicia para Inmigrantes de The Resurrection Project (TRP), y Artemio Arreola, director político de la Coalición de Illinois para los Derechos de Inmigrantes y Refugiados (ICIRR). El video de la conferencia de prensa se puede ver aquí. La inspección realizada por los miembros del Congreso confirmó lo que habían escuchado de los defensores de los derechos de inmigrantes sobre el centro: cuatro celdas de detención, servicios sanitarios insuficientes, falta de privacidad, ausencia de servicios médicos y de salud mental, un lugar que no fue diseñado para albergar personas más de unas horas. “Estamos respondiendo a las necesidades de nuestros electores, quienes han llamado a nuestras oficinas, y no saben qué le sucede a sus familiares cuando están en este centro de detención”, dijo el Congresista Davis, quien representa el distrito donde se encuentra el centro de procesamiento de ICE en Broadview. “El tribunal dijo que somos los representantes del pueblo y por eso estamos aquí. Nuestra función es servir y proteger a la gente de nuestro distrito, y eso es lo que he hecho toda mi vida y no voy a dejar de hacerlo ahora”. “Un tribunal federal reafirmó lo que nunca debió haberse cuestionado: que el Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas de Estados Unidos (ICE) y el Departamento de Seguridad Nacional no pueden impedir que los miembros del Congreso inspeccionen las instalaciones financiadas por el pueblo estadounidense. Lo que vimos hoy confirma por qué la supervisión es urgente. Es un sistema diseñado para agotar a las personas en lugar de procesarlas humanamente”, dijo el Congresista García. “Lo que presenciamos refleja un sistema que trata a los seres humanos como mercancía. Este ya es el período más mortífero registrado para las personas bajo custodia de ICE. Bloquear la supervisión no protege la seguridad pública. La detención a esta escala es inherentemente deshumanizante.” “La visita de hoy se trata de personas, no de política. Dentro de esta instalación hay madres y padres, trabajadores y familiares que están separados de sus seres queridos, muchos por asuntos de inmigración civil, no por delitos. La supervisión es importante porque las condiciones dentro de estas paredes afectan vidas humanas reales: si alguien recibe atención médica cuando está enfermo, si puede hablar con su abogado, si es tratado con dignidad”, dijo el Congresista Jackson. “Poder entrar significa que podemos ver por nosotros mismos, escuchar directamente y asegurarnos de que nuestro gobierno cumpla con su responsabilidad de tratar a cada persona bajo su custodia con decencia y respeto básicos”. “Bajo el liderazgo de Kristi Noem, ICE ha gastado miles de millones de dólares en su campaña de terror ilegal, irresponsable e inconstitucional. Existe evidencia irrefutable de que ICE ha mantenido a nuestros vecinos, incluidos niños y mujeres embarazadas, en condiciones inhumanas en las instalaciones de ICE, donde han estado sin acceso a sus medicamentos, asesoría legal o necesidades básicas. La supervisión de las instalaciones del DHS y de ICE es un derecho y un deber constitucional de todos los miembros del Congreso. Y un tribunal federal ha otorgado a los miembros del Congreso una orden judicial para hacer precisamente eso”, dijo la Congresista Ramírez, miembro del Comité de Seguridad Nacional. “La exitosa visita de supervisión de hoy al Centro de Procesamiento de ICE en Broadview es una victoria para nuestras comunidades y un primer paso necesario para responsabilizar a la Administración por su ilegalidad y crueldad. No permitiremos que el DHS viole nuestros derechos, socave el debido proceso y destruya nuestras comunidades. Continuaremos luchando en el Congreso, en los tribunales y en las calles. Por mis electores, nuestros vecinos y nuestro país, seguiré responsabilizando a Kristi Noem por sus abusos de poder y me aseguraré de que se investiguen sus delitos que ameritan un juicio político”. “La decisión del DHS de finalmente permitir la supervisión del Congreso es un paso positivo, pero no contribuye mucho a esclarecer la situación que atraviesan actualmente los miembros de nuestra comunidad detenidos”, declaró Erendira Rendón, vicepresidenta de Justicia para Inmigrantes de The Resurrection Project. “Las personas siguen siendo detenidas en la calle y trasladadas por todo el país, separadas de sus familias y privadas del asesoramiento legal al que tienen derecho. The Resurrection Project se compromete a seguir luchando por los derechos de todos los inmigrantes hasta que todas las personas que han sido arrebatadas de nuestras comunidades sean liberadas y se reúnan con sus seres queridos”. “Continuaremos trabajando con estos representantes y sus colegas para reunir a las familias. Las comunidades inmigrantes exigen soluciones reales y rendición de cuentas. ICIRR y nuestros colaboradores seguiremos exigiendo responsabilidad y transparencia”, afirmó Artemio Arreola, director político de ICIRR. “Seguiremos exigiendo el fin de la violencia de ICE, independientemente de quién esté en el poder. Exigimos el fin de las detenciones, el fin de las redadas y el fin de las deportaciones”. # # # En junio, los congresistas realizaron una visita sin previo aviso al Centro de Procesamiento de Broadview tras recibir informes de que se estaba utilizando para la detención ilegal de inmigrantes, en contravención de las ordenanzas municipales y estatales. Se les negó la entrada, incluso después de identificarse con sus credenciales oficiales del Congreso. En septiembre, enviaron una carta a la secretaria del Departamento de Seguridad Nacional (DHS), Kristi Noem, y al director interino del Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas (ICE), Todd Lyons, exigiendo respuestas sobre las condiciones, la capacidad y los servicios básicos para los inmigrantes detenidos en el Centro de Procesamiento de ICE en Broadview, Illinois. Nunca recibieron respuesta.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-garcia-davis-ramirez-jackson-inspect-broadview-ice-processing-center,"Reps.  García, Davis, Ramirez, Jackson Inspect Broadview ICE Processing Center",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CHICAGO —Today Federal Representatives Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), and Jonathan Jackson (IL-01) returned to the ICE Processing Center at Broadview, Illinois for an oversight visit. A federal court confirmed on December 17 that the Trump Administration cannot block Members of Congress from conducting oversight at immigration detention facilities. The Representatives were joined at a press conference by Erendira Rendon, Vice President for Immigrant Justice at The Resurrection Project (TRP) and Artemio Arreola, Political Director at the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR). A video of the press conference can be watched here. The inspection by the Members of Congress confirmed what they have been hearing from advocates about the center — four detention cells, insufficient sanitary services, no privacy, no medical and mental health services, a place that was not created to keep people overnight. “We are responding to the needs of our constituents who have called our offices, and they don’t know what happens to their relatives when they are in this detention center,” said Congressman Davis, who represents the district where the Broadview ICE processing center is located. “The court said we are the representatives of the people and that’s why we are here. Our role is to serve and protect the people of our district and that’s what I’ve done all my life and I’m not going to stop now.” “A federal court reaffirmed what should never have been questioned—that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security cannot block Members of Congress from inspecting facilities funded by the American people. What we saw today confirms why oversight is urgent. It’s a system designed to wear people down rather than process them humanely,” said Congressman García. “What we witnessed reflects a system that treats human beings as inventory. This is already the deadliest period on record for people in ICE custody.Blocking oversight does not protect public safety. Detention on this scale is inherently dehumanizing.” “Today’s visit is about people, not politics. Inside this facility are mothers and fathers, workers, and family members who are being held away from their loved ones — many for civil immigration matters, not crimes. Oversight matters because conditions inside these walls affect real human lives: whether someone gets medical care when they’re sick, whether they can speak to their attorney, whether they are treated with dignity,” said Congressman Jackson. “Being allowed inside means we can see for ourselves, listen directly, and make sure our government is living up to its responsibility to treat every person in its custody with basic decency and respect.” “Under Kristi Noem's leadership, ICE has spent billions of dollars on their unlawful, unaccountable, unconstitutional campaign of terror. There is irrefutable evidence that ICE has held our neighbors, including children and pregnant women, in inhumane conditions in ICE facilities, where they have gone without access to their medication, legal counsel, or basic necessities. Oversight of DHS and ICE facilities is every Member's constitutional right and duty to pursue. And a federal court has granted Members of Congress a court order to do just that.” said Congresswoman Ramirez, who serves on the Homeland Security Committee. “Today’s successful oversight visit to the ICE Processing Center at Broadview is a win for our communities and a necessary first step in holding the Administration accountable for their lawlessness and cruelty. We will not allow DHS to violate our rights, undermine due process, and tear our communities apart. We will continue to fight in Congress, in the courts and in the streets. For my constituents, our neighbors, and our country, I will continue to hold Kristi Noem accountable for her abuses of power and ensure her impeachable offenses are investigated.” “The decision by DHS to finally allow Congressional oversight is a positive step, it doesn’t do much to shine light on what our detained community members are going through right now,” said Erendira Rendón, Vice President of Immigrant Justice at the Resurrection Project. “People are still being grabbed off the street and transferred across the country, ripped from their families and denied the legal counsel they have a right to. The Resurrection Project is committed to keep fighting for the rights of all immigrants until all of the people who have been stolen from our communities are released and reunited with their loved ones.” “We will continue working with these representatives and their colleagues to reunite families. Immigrant communities are demanding real solutions and accountability. ICIRR and our partners will continue to demand accountability and transparency,” said Artemio Arreola, Political Director for ICIRR. “We will continue to demand an end to ICE’s violence, regardless of who is in office. We demand an end to detention, an end to raids, and an end to deportations.” # # # In June, the Members paid an unannounced visit to the Broadview Processing Center after receiving reports that it was being used to unlawfully detain immigrants, contrary to city and state ordinances. The Members were denied entry, even after identifying themselves with their official Congressional voting cards.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-presses-energy-department-rising-electricity-costs,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Presses Energy Department on Rising Electricity Costs in Wake of New Illinois Grid Report,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) today sent a letter to Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright raising concerns about rising electricity costs and grid reliability risks facing Illinois families and businesses in the wake of a new Illinois Resource Adequacy Study warning of looming capacity shortfalls and higher power prices. In the letter, Congressman Krishnamoorthi noted that electricity costs in Illinois have increased more than 14 percent since January 2025, contributing to millions of Americans falling behind on their energy bills and facing the threat of disconnection. Congressman Krishnamoorthi pointed to the 2025 Resource Adequacy Study, which found that regional grids that serve Illinois are projected to face capacity limits and system-wide shortfalls beginning later this decade if the current trends continue. The study makes clear the core problem is not a lack of proposed clean energy projects, but the inability to bring new resources online on schedule. Congressman Krishnamoorthi highlighted that wind and solar accounted for 93 percent of new electricity added to the U.S. power grid in 2024, making them among the most cost-effective energy sources available. He went on to warn that retreating from these investments and weakening clean energy incentives has slowed project deployment, increased reliability risks, and driven up household energy costs. Congressman Krishnamoorthi also wrote that the study finds rolling back or weakening incentives created by the Inflation Reduction Act could increase delivered electricity prices by as much as 7 to 10 percent by the end of the decade, exacerbating affordability challenges for families and businesses already struggling with higher bills. Congressman Krishnamoorthi requested responses to the following questions no later than January 20, 2026: What actions has the Department taken since January 2025 to reduce interconnection and permitting delays affecting utility-scale wind, solar, battery storage, and transmission projects in PJM and MISO? What analyses has the Department conducted regarding how changes to Inflation Reduction Act implementation affect clean energy investment and project timelines? What steps has the Department taken to coordinate with PJM and MISO to address the bottlenecks identified in the Illinois Resource Adequacy Study? Does the Department agree with the study’s finding that rolling back Inflation Reduction Act incentives may raise electricity prices by 7 to 10 percent? If not, please provide the Department’s alternative estimate and methodology. Please provide all Department documents, memoranda, or analyses since January 2025 assessing reliability or consumer cost impacts associated with delayed clean energy deployment. Congressman Krishnamoorthi concluded by stressing that federal energy policy decisions have immediate consequences for electricity affordability, grid reliability, and the financial security of Illinois families and businesses. Congressman Krishnamoorthi has been a strong advocate for lowering energy prices for Illinoisans. In September, the congressman sent a letter to Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright warning about price hikes throughout Illinois. Congressman Krishnamoorthi then visited Windy City Wieners in Bloomington to discuss the impacts high energy prices are having on local and small businesses throughout the state.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-trump-administration-failure-to-release-the-complete-epstein-files,Durbin Statement On Trump Administration Failure To Release The Complete Epstein Files,2025-12-20,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement after the Department of Justice failed to produce the complete Epstein files yesterday in accordance with federal law: “Yesterday could have been a win for survivors, accountability, and transparency to the public. It wasn’t. After mishandling the Epstein files all year, the Trump Administration is now violating federal law to protect the rich and powerful. “It took an act of Congress to force Pam Bondi, Kash Patel, and Dan Bongino to even consider providing justice. They had a choice: survivors or Donald Trump. They chose the latter. “Senate Judiciary Democrats will investigate this violation of law and make sure the American people know about it. “The survivors deserve better. It’s clear Donald Trump and his Republican enablers are working for the rich and powerful elites—and not you.” -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://davis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-danny-k-davis-condemns-doj-action-undermining-minority-serving,CONGRESSMAN DANNY K. DAVIS CONDEMNS DOJ ACTION UNDERMINING MINORITY SERVING INSTITUTIONS AND EDUCATIONAL EQUITY,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Danny K. Davis,D000096,davis.house.gov,davis,https://davis.house.gov/media,scraper,"Chicago, IL — Congressman Danny K. Davis issued the following statement today in response to the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Legal Counsel opinion declaring key Minority Serving Institution (MSI) programs unconstitutional, prompting the Department of Education to halt or curtail their operation: “Today’s action by the Department of Justice denies both the constitutionality and the necessity of targeted, compensatory efforts designed to expand educational access for Black, Hispanic, Asian American, Native American, and other historically marginalized communities. This decision wipes away formal recognition of the very real and well-documented legacy of racism, slavery, Jim Crow segregation, systemic poverty, and structural barriers that continue to shape educational opportunity in America. To suggest—by any stretch of the imagination—that the playing field in education is equal is simply false."" Minority Serving Institutions educate roughly five million students—nearly one-third of all undergraduates in this country. These institutions are not symbolic. They are proven engines of economic mobility. They meet students where they are, support low-income and first-generation students, and strengthen entire communities. When President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Higher Education Act, he made clear that no student should be turned away from college because their family is poor. Today’s actions are deeply at odds with that promise. Background: Following the DOJ Office of Legal Counsel opinion, the Department of Education will no longer operate or will significantly curtail several programs, including: Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions; Hispanic-Serving Institutions–STEM; Native American Serving Non-Tribal Institutions; Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions; Predominantly Black Institutions formula grants; Alaskan Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions; the Minority Science and Engineering Improvement Program; and Native Hawaiian Career and Technical Education programs. Components of TRIO programs, including the Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program, are also affected. Congressman Davis has long championed policies that expand access to education and confront structural inequality as essential to economic mobility and a healthy democracy.",1,2026-05-16T06:05:00Z,2026-05-16T06:06:37Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-conducts-oversight-visit-broadview-ice-facility,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Conducts Oversight Visit at Broadview ICE Facility After Months of Being Unlawfully Denied Access,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BROADVIEW, IL — Today, following a federal court ruling blocking the Trump administration’s restrictions on congressional access to immigration detention facilities, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) conducted an oversight visit at the Broadview Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility after months of being unlawfully denied entry. Earlier this week, U.S. District Judge Jia M. Cobb temporarily paused ICE and Department of Homeland Security policies requiring Members of Congress to provide seven days’ notice before visiting immigration detention facilities—restrictions the court found likely exceeded DHS’s statutory authority and interfered with Congress’s constitutional oversight responsibilities. “For months, the Trump Administration blocked lawful congressional oversight into conditions inside immigration detention facilities, including here in Broadview, while carrying out increasingly militarized immigration raids that sow fear in our communities,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. “Congress has both the legal authority and the obligation to conduct real-time oversight. My visit follows a clear court ruling reaffirming that authority, and I will continue using every tool available to force the Trump Administration to follow the law, respect due process, and treat people in custody with dignity the American people demand.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-kelly-introduces-bipartisan-bicameral-bill-increase-diversity,"Rep. Kelly introduces bipartisan, bicameral bill to increase diversity in clinical trials",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin L. Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,robinkelly,https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) introduced the bipartisan and bicameral NIH Clinical Trial Integrity Act to increase the diversity of participants in clinical trials funded by the National Institutes of Health. This bill is also led by U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and U.S. Senators Andy Kim (D-NJ) and Susan Collins (R-ME). “When people are excluded from clinical trials, they are also excluded from treatments for chronic diseases. The data clearly lays out the fact that historically marginalized communities disproportionately suffer from certain illnesses and diseases – but we are excluded from clinical trials,” said Rep. Kelly, Chair of the CBC Health Braintrust. “I’m proud to work with my colleagues across the aisle and in the Senate to ensure better representation in our clinical trials. No one should be left behind in the pursuit of medical breakthroughs.” “Medical breakthroughs are only as strong as the data behind them—and data that excludes entire communities is incomplete by definition,” said Representative Fitzpatrick. “The NIH Clinical Trial Integrity Act strengthens the integrity of our research by ensuring clinical trials reflect the full diversity of the patients they are meant to serve. This bipartisan, bicameral effort is about inclusion, accountability, and better science—so that lifesaving treatments work for everyone.” “Biomedical research holds tremendous promise for treating many of the most costly and devastating diseases we face. To ensure that the benefits of cutting-edge medical science reach all Americans, it is important that participants in clinical trials reflect our overall population,” said Senator Collins. “By encouraging long-term planning and improving demographic representation in clinical studies, this bipartisan legislation would help enhance the effectiveness of critical research that is conducted and sponsored by the NIH.” “We have a responsibility to ensure Americans of all backgrounds have fair and equal access to treatment and care. This needs to begin with fair and equal representation in the earliest stages of health research and testing, including clinical trials,” said Senator Kim. “I hope we can come together to use this legislation as a tool to combat dangerous and persistent health inequities that are putting communities of color and diverse backgrounds at-risk.” The NIH Clinical Trial Integrity Act will: • Require NIH to work with clinical trial sponsors to develop clear and measurable recruitment and retention goals based on disease/condition prevalence as well as a rationale for specified goals and a recruitment plan; • Ensure the availability of less burdensome follow-ups during clinical trials (e.g. fewer follow ups, phone participation, weekend hours) to increase participation of underrepresented populations; • Launch a public awareness campaign across federal agencies related to research participation opportunities. The bill has been endorsed by the Association of Black Cardiologists, Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation, Blood Cancer United, Susan G. Komen Foundation, American Psychological Association, National Organizations for Rare Disease (NORD), TOUCH: The Black Breast Cancer Alliance, Doctors for America.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-kelly-introduces-legislation-strengthen-federal-port-infrastructure,Rep. Kelly Introduces Legislation to Strengthen Federal Port Infrastructure Investments Nationwide,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin L. Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,robinkelly,https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Chicago, IL. – Today, Representatives Robin Kelly (IL-02), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Frank Mrvan (IN-01), Tim Kennedy (NY-26), Randy Weber (TX-14), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), and Erin Houchin (IN-09) led the bipartisan introduction of the Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act. This legislation strengthens the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) by ensuring federal investments are distributed more evenly across regional port systems nationwide. Currently, inland and Great Lakes ports receive a disproportionately small share of federal support, limiting their ability to modernize infrastructure, expand capacity, and remain competitive. By rebalancing how funds are awarded, the bill helps unlock the full economic and national security potential of ports across the interior, strengthening America’s supply chain resilience and global competitiveness. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced the companion legislation in the Senate. “Illinois’ ports, including the Illinois International Port District in Chicago, are vital to our agricultural and manufacturing supply chains,” said Congresswoman Kelly. “This bill would ensure the Great Lakes and inland ports receive a fair share of federal investment so they can operate safely, efficiently, and drive economic growth in the Second District and across Illinois.” “Our ports are the front doors of American trade. This bill ensures smart federal investments in local jobs, improves supply chains, and enhances our economic security,” said Congresswoman Kaptur. “In my region that means shoring up our Great Lakes ports to allow goods commodities to flow up through the Soo Locks and on to Europe through the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway. I want to thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for joining this effort to invest in economic growth and improve waterborne shipping to the world.” “Inland ports are the backbone of the nation’s supply chain. When they fall behind, America falls behind, and our economic security and national security are put at risk,” said Congressman Joyce. “Federal port infrastructure dollars can’t just flow to major coastal hubs. The Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act guarantees that ports across the Great Lakes, Gulf Coast, and inland waterways can compete for critical upgrades that keep goods moving, reduce bottlenecks, and strengthen America’s strategic and economic competitiveness. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Congressman Kennedy and grateful for his continued advocacy on behalf of the Great Lakes.” “The Great Lakes are a way of life for us in Michigan and across the Heartland. They drive and support industries that create jobs and sustain communities across the country,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “Our Great Lakes ports are just as essential to the U.S. as coastal ports and deserve equal federal investment. I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan bill to ensure the Great Lakes port system is fairly considered for maintenance and modernization that will support competitiveness and economic security.” “Our ports are the backbone of our regional economy and serve as a critical link in keeping America’s supply chains moving,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. “In the Great Lakes region these ports support good-paying jobs and strengthen our national security. The Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act ensures that federal infrastructure dollars are distributed fairly, so inland ports and surrounding communities can reap the economic benefits from modernized and resilient infrastructure.” “It would be a detriment to both our national security and our economy to overlook the Great Lakes when it comes to port infrastructure funding decisions,” said Congressman Huizenga. “Our nation’s coastal ports are important, but don’t operate in a vacuum. The Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act ensures industry and commerce while enhancing security, growing the economy, supporting job creation, and lowering costs.” “Thank you to Rep. Joyce and my Congressional colleagues for introducing this legislation to ensure that all of our ports receive their fair share of federal funding for infrastructure investments,” said Congressman Mrvan. “Efficient and well-functioning ports are critical to the economic success of working families and communities throughout our nation, including in Northwest Indiana, and I look forward to continuing to advance this important legislation.” “Federal port dollars shouldn’t be funneled to the same handful of coastal ports while inland and Gulf Coast ports that move America’s energy, agriculture, and manufactured goods are left behind,” said Congressman Weber. “The Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act simply requires the Department of Transportation to consider equitable geographic distribution, ensuring every port has a fair shot and that our national supply chain is stronger, more resilient, and more secure.” “I am pleased to cosponsor this legislation to ensure ports along Lake Ontario receive fair consideration in federal infrastructure funding,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “These ports are critical to Upstate New York’s economy and support manufacturing, agriculture, construction, and good paying jobs across NY-24. This bill is a smart investment in economic resilience, efficiency, and national security.” “Communities across Indiana depend on efficient freight networks to move the agriculture and manufacturing goods that power our economy,” said Congresswoman Houchin. “When inland ports, like our own on the Ohio River, are overlooked for federal investment, it can create delays in shipping that affect businesses and workers. The Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act is a practical solution that ensures every region gets a fair shot at critical funding to keep our supply chain moving.” ""As a leading advocate for Ohio and the Great Lakes, Congressman Joyce has been instrumental in creating good-paying American jobs and strengthening our communities,” said Brian Oszakiewski, Executive Director of the American Great Lakes Ports Association. “This legislation helps ensure the Heartland receives its fair share of federal investment. We are grateful for Congressman Joyce’s leadership and thank his congressional colleagues for their support of balanced, long-term funding for critical port infrastructure across the Great Lakes region.” “This bill is an important step to ensure that the world's longest deep draft commercial waterway - the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway System - receives its fair share of funding to continue improving the safety and reliability of our region's ports,” said Erika Jensen, Executive Director of the Great Lakes Commission. Summary: This bill would amend the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) to ensure that federal port improvement funds are awarded more evenly across different regions of the country. The bill directs the Department of Transportation to consider geographic distribution when selecting projects for both the Port and Intermodal Improvement Program and for assistance targeted to inland and coastal ports and terminals. The legislation explicitly includes inland ports, meaning ports on the Great Lakes, along inland waterways, and other interior ports would be eligible for funding under the program and considered in the geographic distribution requirements. In practice, the bill ensures that federal investments are not concentrated in only a few regions and that ports of all sizes and locations have a fair chance to compete for funding. Endorsing Organizations: Great Lakes Commission and the American Great Lakes Ports Association. Background: The Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) provides critical investments for port infrastructure and intermodal improvements. Historically, a disproportionate share of this funding has gone to large, coastal, or high-volume ports, leaving smaller or inland facilities with limited access to these federal resources. For example, since Fiscal Year 2019, only 2 percent of Port Infrastructure Development Program funding has gone to the Great Lakes region, compared with 38 percent to West Coast ports and 34 percent to East Coast ports. As freight movement grows increasingly interconnected, equitable investment in all types of ports is essential for improving overall logistics efficiency, economic development, and national resilience. Inland ports support manufacturing supply chains, serve hundreds of millions of people, and play a critical role in national security by transporting essential materials such as iron ore, cement, and aggregates. Since America’s beginning, inland waterways have provided a resilient alternative to exposed coastal shipping routes, easier to monitor and protect from physical or cyber threats. During World War II, these waterways were vital, enabling the transport of troops, materials, and supplies while avoiding German attacks on major ports. Today, inland ports remain a secure and reliable backbone of the nation’s logistics network, ensuring critical materials reach where they’re needed most to support both military readiness and domestic manufacturing. Investing in these ports would strengthen national supply chains, improve cost efficiency, reduce road congestion and emissions, and enhance the resilience and reliability of freight movement. Modernization efforts, including dredging, dock improvements, and intermodal connections, ensure that these ports can accommodate larger vessels, handle seasonal peaks, and maintain timely delivery of goods. Supporting inland port systems isn’t about local favoritism; it’s about recognizing that inland infrastructure is just as critical as our coastal gateways.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases/underwood-condemns-house-republicans-failing-american-families-and-leaving,Underwood Condemns House Republicans for Failing American Families and Leaving Town Without Saving Health Care,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Lauren Underwood,U000040,underwood.house.gov,underwood,https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Yesterday, House Republicans dismissed the House and left Washington for holiday break without scheduling a vote on Rep. Lauren Underwood’s legislation to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits for an additional three years. Four Republicans joined Democrats on a discharge petition to force a vote on the legislation on Wednesday, but House Speaker Mike Johnson ignored that bipartisan consensus, and has delayed the vote to January. The popular tax credits will expire on December 31st, 2025, and millions of families will now go into the holiday season facing skyrocketing health care costs next year. “Health care is a human right, and for months we have called on Republicans to address this issue and give families peace of mind by making the incredibly popular tax credits from my legislation permanent,” said Rep Underwood. “But they have done nothing, and now millions of families will head into the holiday season filled with uncertainty and anxiety about the future of our health care. This is a crisis that Republicans have created through their own cruelty and neglect. It’s completely unacceptable, and our communities deserve better.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-blumenthal-demand-investigation-into-trumps-misuse-of-va-resources-to-help-execute-his-extreme-deportation-campaign,"Duckworth, Blumenthal Demand Investigation into Trump’s Misuse of VA Resources to Help Execute His Extreme Deportation Campaign",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC) member Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), along with SVAC Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), today demanded an independent investigation into the Trump Administration’s decision to divert personnel, equipment and financial resources away from serving our nation’s Veterans and toward developing a database to track non-U.S. citizen employees as part of Donald Trump’s inhumane mass deportation campaign. After Donald Trump fired 30,000 VA employees and jeopardized timely VA care for our Veterans earlier this year, Duckworth’s letter underscores that aiding immigration enforcement does not support or advance the VA’s sacred mission of caring for our Veterans and their families and only further demoralizes the dedicated VA workforce. “Beyond cutting 30,000 Federal employees from the workforce this year, VA leadership is hindering Veterans’ prompt access to exemplary healthcare, and their swift delivery of benefits, by pursuing policy functions and using valuable resources irrelevant to its statutory responsibilities,” wrote Duckworth. “These actions are indicative of potential fraud, waste and misuse of Congressionally appropriated funds at VA. Furthermore, they also suggest possible gross mismanagement that undermines VA’s mission.” Demanding an independent investigation into this latest attempt by the Trump Administration to undermine the mission of the VA, Duckworth wrote: “…we request VA OIG conduct an independent investigation to include findings, if warranted, on the database’s adverse impact on delivering and managing healthcare and benefits and whether such activities are consistent with congressional intent for VA’s congressionally appropriated resources.” Duckworth has been a fierce leader and advocate for improving our Veterans’ and servicemembers’ access to care amid Trump’s ongoing attacks on the VA. In October, she defended disabled Veterans as Senate Republicans shamefully promoted Trump’s dangerous efforts to cut even more of their benefits. In September, she reintroduced legislation that would improve Veterans’ access to contraception and increase efficiency and cost-effectiveness for contraceptive products at the VA. A few weeks prior, Duckworth sent a letter to VA Secretary Collins demanding he block ICE from stealing VA resources at Hines VA Hospital in Chicago. Duckworth also joined U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Chuck Schumer (D-NY) in reintroducing legislation to help make it easier for our Veterans who struggle with infertility to build their families. After the first VA purge laid off workers with the Veterans Crisis Line—including several Veterans—Duckworth successfully pushed the Trump Administration to reinstate these devoted public servants that work to support our Veterans in their darkest moments. In the aftermath, she introduced the Protect Veteran Jobs Act with U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) to reinstate the thousands of Veterans who were fired in Trump’s mass layoffs—an effort Republicans shamefully blocked in March. Full text of the letter is available below and on the Senator’s website: Dear Inspector General Mason: We write to request that you initiate an independent investigation into the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA’s) diversion of personnel, equipment and financial resources to develop a database on non-U.S. citizen employees. This non-mission critical activity, regardless of VA’s stated pretext for initiating it, appears to represent VA wasting time, attention and congressionally appropriated funds on activities that support already well-funded Federal agencies’ civil immigration enforcement operations, while doing nothing to improve patient care or benefits administration. VA’s sacred mission is to care for those who have served our country and their families, caregivers and survivors. Beyond cutting 30,000 Federal employees from the workforce this year, VA leadership is hindering Veterans’ prompt access to exemplary healthcare, and their swift delivery of benefits, by pursuing policy functions and using valuable resources irrelevant to its statutory responsibilities. These actions are indicative of potential fraud, waste and misuse of Congressionally appropriated funds at VA. Furthermore, they also suggest possible gross mismanagement that undermines VA’s mission. Recent reporting and commentary from VA officials validate and escalate our concerns that these immigration enforcement efforts risk the timely delivery of care and benefits to Veterans. To better understand these recent actions at VA, we request VA OIG conduct an independent investigation to include findings, if warranted, on the database’s adverse impact on delivering and managing healthcare and benefits and whether such activities are consistent with congressional intent for VA’s congressionally appropriated resources. We also request that your investigation recommends corrective actions, as necessary, including policy reforms, disciplinary matters and referrals to the appropriate law enforcement authorities. We respectfully request that your office prioritize this investigation and provide our offices with routine updates, including preliminary findings or recommendations. Thank you for attention to this urgent matter. Sincerely, -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-announce-135-million-in-federal-funding-to-support-illinois-students,"Durbin, Duckworth Announce $13.5 Million In Federal Funding To Support Illinois Students",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today announced $13,467,325 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Education for mental health and literacy support for students in Illinois. “There is a growing mental health and literacy crisis amongst today’s youth that must be addressed,” said Durbin. “Today’s announced federal funding for programs that build the pipeline of mental health professionals, connect professionals to students, and support literacy research will help Illinois face these concerns head-on. It also demonstrates the importance of the Department of Education as the Trump Administration continues its attempts to dismantle the agency. Senator Duckworth and I will always work to ensure our students have access to resources that help put them on a path toward success.” “Every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, which is why I’m proud to see this investment support critical mental health programs that help students across Illinois thrive,” said Senator Duckworth. “While this funding will reach our state this time around, it’s cruel that Donald Trump’s cuts to federal services have jeopardized programs that prepare the next generation—hurting the very middle-class families he swore to protect, all while enriching his billionaire buddies. That’s why I will continue doing everything I can at the federal level, alongside Senator Durbin, to safeguard these investments and ensure every student across our state has the chance to succeed, both inside and outside the classroom.” The Department of Education’s School-Based Mental Health Grant Program and Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration Grant Program provide competitive grants to State educational agencies (SEAs), local educational agencies (LEAs), and consortia of LEAs to train and increase the number of credentialed mental health services providers providing school-based mental health services to students. The Education Innovation and Research grant provides funding to create, develop, implement, replicate, or scale entrepreneurial, evidence-based, and field-initiated innovations to improve student achievement and attainment for high-need students. The Department of Education funding recipients include: Cahlhoun, Greene, Jersey, and Macoupin Counties: Mental Health Service Professionals Demonstration Program ($1,246,643) Illinois State Board of Education: School-Based Mental Health Grant Program ($1,743,772) and Mental Health Service Professionals Development Program ($476,910) The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois: Education Innovation and Research ($10,000,000) -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-members-of-illinois-delegation-request-25-million-in-reimbursements-for-mwrds-work-on-the-thornton-reservoir,"Durbin, Duckworth, Members Of Illinois Delegation Request $25 Million In Reimbursements For MWRD’s Work On The Thornton Reservoir",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), along with U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Representatives Danny K. Davis (D-IL-07), Jesus G. “Chuy” Garcia (D-IL-04), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Sean Casten (D-IL-06), and Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09) today sent a letter to Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Adam Telle urging the Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) to include $25 million in construction funds in its Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Work Plan to reimburse the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) of Greater Chicago for the work it has completed on the design and construction of the Thornton Composite Reservoir. “We are writing to request that you include $25 million in Construction funds in the Army Corps of Engineers’ Fiscal Year 2026 Work Plan to reimburse the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago for design and construction work conducted on the Thornton Composite Reservoir,” the lawmakers wrote. In 2009, MWRD executed an amendment to its Project Cooperation Agreement with the Army Corps for the design and construction of the Thornton Composite Reservoir, enabling MWRD to work on the project while being eligible for federal reimbursement. Despite the reservoir being in service since 2015 and providing an estimated $660 million in flood reduction benefits to 14 communities, the Army Corps still owes MWRD approximately $200 million in reimbursements. “Currently, the Army Corps of Engineers owes MWRD approximately $200 million in reimbursements for the cost of designing and constructing the Thornton Reservoir, which is needed to support flood-prone communities struggling to build resilient infrastructure. Cook County experienced significant flooding during storm events in 2023, 2024, and 2025, leading to three disaster declarations. These reimbursement funds would be used to advance shovel-ready projects to address flood damages in the Chicagoland area,” the lawmakers wrote. “Not only will this flood protection work help communities be more resilient, it also will help boost economic development. Including a $25 million reimbursement in the FY 2026 Army Corps of Engineers’ Work Plan will ensure that MWRD can reinvest in these communities to mitigate flooding and create a strong economic base,” the lawmakers wrote. The lawmakers concluded their letter by emphasizing the necessity of including the reimbursement funds in the FY26 Work Plan to support flood protection projects across the state. “These funds are needed to provide community flood protection for projects currently in design, including projects in Maine Township, Park Ridge, the City of Harvey, Bremen Township, Midlothian, Crestwood, and Oak Lawn. FY 2026 funding would build on the $20 million in the FY 2024 Army Corps of Engineers Work Plan; the $7.2 million reimbursement to MWRD in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act’s Construction Spend Plan, Summer 2023 Addendum; and the $12 million in the FY 2022 Army Corps of Engineers Work Plan, allowing MWRD to focus on completing critical projects, including the Robbins Flood Protection Project,” the lawmakers wrote. “As the Army Corps determines how to best address its flood damage reduction obligations and meet its commitments to its partners, we strongly urge you to include $25 million in Construction funds for the reimbursement owed to MWRD in the FY 2026 Work Plan to help create a better future for our constituents,” the lawmakers concluded their letter. Durbin has previously secured additional reimbursements from the Corps for MWRD’s work on Thornton Reservoir. In Fiscal Year 2022, Durbin secured $12 million in reimbursement funds in the Army Corps’ FY22 Work Plan. The following year, Durbin secured $7.2 million in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Construction Spend Plan for the project. In Fiscal Year 2024, Durbin also secured $20 million in the Army Corps’ work plan for reimbursement. A copy of the letter is available here and below: December 19, 2025 Dear Assistant Secretary Telle: We are writing to request that you include $25 million in Construction funds in the Army Corps of Engineers’ (Army Corps) Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Work Plan to reimburse the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) of Greater Chicago for design and construction work conducted on the Thornton Composite Reservoir. In 2009, MWRD executed an amendment to its Project Cooperation Agreement with the Army Corps for the design and construction of the Thornton Composite Reservoir. This enabled MWRD to design and construct the Thornton Composite Reservoir project and allowed it to be eligible for federal reimbursement. The reservoir was put into service in 2015 and has provided an estimated $660 million in flood reduction benefits to 14 communities over the last 10 years, protecting more than 35,000 structures from flooding. Currently, the Army Corps of Engineers owes MWRD approximately $200 million in reimbursements for the cost of designing and constructing the Thornton Reservoir, which is needed to support flood-prone communities struggling to build resilient infrastructure. Cook County experienced significant flooding during storm events in 2023, 2024, and 2025, leading to three disaster declarations. These reimbursement funds would be used to advance shovel-ready projects to address flood damages in the Chicagoland area. Not only will this flood protection work help communities be more resilient, it also will help boost economic development. Including a $25 million reimbursement in the FY 2026 Army Corps of Engineers’ Work Plan will ensure that MWRD can reinvest in these communities to mitigate flooding and create a strong economic base. These funds are needed to provide community flood protection for projects currently in design, including projects in Maine Township, Park Ridge, the City of Harvey, Bremen Township, Midlothian, Crestwood, and Oak Lawn. FY 2026 funding would build on the $20 million in the FY 2024 Army Corps of Engineers Work Plan; the $7.2 million reimbursement to MWRD in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act’s Construction Spend Plan, Summer 2023 Addendum; and the $12 million in the FY 2022 Army Corps of Engineers Work Plan, allowing MWRD to focus on completing critical projects, including the Robbins Flood Protection Project. As the Army Corps determines how to best address its flood damage reduction obligations and meet its commitments to its partners, we strongly urge you to include $25 million in Construction funds for the reimbursement owed to MWRD in the FY 2026 Work Plan to help create a better future for our constituents. Thank you for your consideration of our important request. Sincerely, -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-joins-blumenthal-ross-to-introduce-legislation-to-shine-light-on-supreme-court-shadow-docket-decisions,"Durbin Joins Blumenthal, Ross To Introduce Legislation To Shine Light On Supreme Court Shadow Docket Decisions",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The Shadow Docket Sunlight Act requires the Supreme Court to provide a written explanation for shadow docket decisions and a vote count detailing how each justice voted on the decision, promoting transparency and consistency in judicial decision making. WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and U.S. Representative Deborah Ross (D-NC) to introduce bicameral legislation establishing transparency in decisions on the Supreme Court’s emergency docket, also known as the “shadow docket.” The Shadow Docket Sunlight Act requires the Supreme Court to provide a written explanation for shadow docket decisions and a vote count detailing how each Justice voted on the decision, promoting transparency and consistency in judicial decision making. The Supreme Court’s increasing reliance on the shadow docket allows it to make decisions on short notice without oral argument or any legal explanation of the Court’s reasoning. The Court has utilized the shadow docket to decide a number of wide-ranging, highly consequential cases, including the September 8, 2025 decision in Noem v. Vasquez Perdomo. The decision allows ICE agents to stop and arrest individuals based on their appearance, the language they speak, where they live, and what they do for work. The Trump Administration has also urged the Supreme Court to decide Trump v. Illinois, a case that will determine the legality of the Trump Administration’s federalization and deployment of the National Guard in Illinois, on the shadow docket. The Trump Administration’s emergency application is still pending. “The Supreme Court’s abuse of the shadow docket has allowed justices to hand down major rulings without justification and sets a dangerous precedent under which consequential cases are decided without a clear rationale—even when those cases involve a presidential administration that has shown little regard for the Constitution. This abuse of process must stop,” said Durbin. “The highest court in the land should not issue decisions in the dark. The Shadow Docket Sunlight Act would require justices to explain their decision making in every case, providing the American people with the transparency and accountability they deserve from their government.” “The shadow docket decision in Noem v. Vasquez Perdomo, a highly chilling legal landmark, condones racial profiling in Trump’s immigration enforcement. Shockingly, this very significant ruling was issued without any public argument or majority opinion. The Shadow Docket Sunlight Act shines light on the Supreme Court’s emergency docket rulings, like Vazquez Perdomo, and requires the Supreme Court to be accountable and explain its rulings. Americans deserve clarity from the nation’s highest Court—especially as the Court increasingly uses the shadow docket to issue far-reaching consequential decisions. Recent shadow docket decisions demonstrate the dire need for our legislation’s enforceable guidelines that hold the Court accountable,” said Blumenthal. “The conservative majority on the Supreme Court continues to issue harmful, backwards decisions through the shadow docket, often offering no explanation of their reasoning or how the justices voted,” said Ross. “From allowing DOGE to access sensitive data to permitting the illegal mass firings of federal employees, the Supreme Court has used the shadow docket to hand down major decisions that impact millions of Americans’ daily lives. This important legislation will require the Court to operate with the transparency that the American people deserve.” In addition to Durbin and Blumenthal, the Shadow Docket Sunlight Act is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Tina Smith (D-MN), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). In addition to Ross, the legislation is cosponsored in the House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Jamie Raskin (D-MD) and Hank Johnson (D-GA). The legislation is endorsed by a number of organizations including the National Women’s Law Center, Fix the Court, People for the American Way, Court Accountability Action, and Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW). The text of the bill can be found here. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-whistleblower-disclosure-regarding-uscis-circumventing-court-order,Durbin Statement On Whistleblower Disclosure Regarding USCIS Circumventing Court Order,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today released the following statement regarding a whistleblower disclosure alleging that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is feigning compliance with the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and a court order in a class action lawsuit in order to avoid court oversight. The Nightingale court order simply requires USCIS to comply with existing FOIA law to process immigration case files and report its progress to the court. Yet, according to this whistleblower report, USCIS is trying to avoid court reporting requirements and obligations under FOIA by prematurely closing cases, even when a USCIS FOIA officer has found the case file information and could provide it to the FOIA requester. The disclosure comes after USCIS reported to the court that it had a 99 percent timely completion rate for immigration case file FOIA requests. “Today’s disclosure alleges that the DHS FOIA office wants a district court judge to believe FOIA requests are being processed more efficiently. But in fact, they are being summarily closed to cook the numbers. “The agency’s actions directly conflict with the spirit of the Nightingale lawsuit, which was filed to ensure due process for individuals who only can access their records through FOIA. They also appear to conflict with the Freedom of Information Act, which instructs agencies not to withhold information unless the agency reasonably foresees that the disclosure would harm an interest protected by a FOIA exemption. “New policies that allow the agency to reject FOIA requests reduce transparency and are just one more way that the Trump-Noem DHS is operating with impunity. The information contained in case files is vital as immigrants increasingly are the targets of violent enforcement actions and must dispute false narratives devised by this Administration. USCIS must respond to FOIA requests fully and in a timely fashion.” Records contained in immigration case files only obtainable through FOIA are critical. For example, case files reveal details about immigration enforcement actions against an individual, including a warrant or the absence of a warrant, analysis of U.S. citizenship claims, and details about an arrest. In another example, attorneys representing vulnerable populations, such as unaccompanied minors, must obtain case file information to reconstruct basic facts like entry dates or prior shelter placements to help prepare unaccompanied minor immigrants’ cases. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://bost.house.gov/2025/12/bost-budzinski-introduce-bill-to-modernize-usda-loan-programs,"BOST, BUDZINSKI INTRODUCE BILL TO MODERNIZE USDA LOAN PROGRAMS",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Reps. Mike Bost (IL-12) and Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) introduced legislation Wednesday to remove outdated eligibility barriers that prevent modern family farms from accessing U.S. Department of Agriculture loan programs. The USDA Loan Modernization Act updates eligibility standards to better reflect the structure of today’s multi-generational, family-run farms, expanding access to operating, emergency, and real estate loans for producers in Southern Illinois and across the country. “For too long, USDA loan rules have failed to keep up with the reality of modern farming,” said Bost. “Family farms shouldn’t be punished for choosing a path that helps them manage risk or plan for the next generation. Our legislation cuts through red tape, brings common sense back to USDA lending, and makes sure farmers who are doing things the right way aren’t locked out from the capital they need to keep their operations running.” ""While farming operations have changed drastically over time, our loan rules haven’t kept up,"" said Budzinski. ""This legislation closes that gap by updating USDA loan rules and making sure small and multi-generational family farmers aren’t penalized for using responsible, modern business structures. Most importantly, it puts decisions back in farmers’ hands — giving them the freedom to set up their operations and land in ways that work best for their families without putting their existing FSA loans at risk."" ""Farm Credit thanks Reps. Bost and Budzinski for introducing the USDA Loan Modernization Act,"" said Farm Credit Council President and CEO Christy Seyfer. ""This small but meaningful update to FSA loan program eligibility requirements will allow the next generation of producers to utilize modern farm business structures while still accessing FSA loan programs. We look forward to working with Reps. Bost and Budzinski to ensure this important legislation is included in Farm Bill 2.0."" The USDA Loan Modernization Act updates eligibility requirements to allow producers with at least a 50 percent operational interest to qualify for loans and gives the Farm Service Agency greater flexibility to consider a range of family farm entities. The legislation is supported by groups including the Farm Credit Council, Illinois Corn Growers Association, Illinois Pork Producers Association, Farm Credit Illinois, Compeer, National Rural Lenders Association, Independent Community Bankers Association, Illinois Farm Bureau Federation, and the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/casten-durbin-duckworth-introduce-resolution-honoring-illinois-blue-ribbon-schools-after-trump-administration-ends-program,"Casten, Durbin, Duckworth Introduce Resolution Honoring Illinois’ Blue Ribbon Schools After Trump Administration Ends Program",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. (December 18, 2025) — After the Trump Administration ended the Blue Ribbon Schools Program, U.S. Representative Sean Casten (D-IL-06), U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today introduced a resolution to recognize the 28 Illinois schools that were selected to receive the designation of Blue Ribbon Schools this year. The Blue Ribbon Schools Program was a national recognition from the U.S. Department of Education given to public, charter, and private schools for their exemplary education and work to close the achievement gap. “Illinois’ Blue Ribbon Schools represent the very best of our state’s education system,” said Rep. Casten. “Teachers, administrators, and students work tirelessly to earn this distinction, which recognizes a sustained commitment to academic excellence. Although the Trump Administration needlessly ended the program, Congress can and should continue to honor deserving institutions. I am proud to introduce this resolution with Senators Durbin and Duckworth to ensure their achievements receive the recognition they’ve earned.” “Rather than continue our nation’s tradition of celebrating schools that have dedicated themselves to closing the achievement gap, the Trump Administration has focused its energy on closing the Department of Education at the detriment of our nation’s students and their education. While the Trump Administration will not recognize the hard work of educators, I am proud to celebrate the achievements of Illinois schools who earned the title of being a Blue Ribbon School,” said Sen. Durbin. “My resolution with Senator Duckworth and Congressman Casten gives these schools – and the educators, faculty, and staff that run them – the recognition they deserve.” “Our state and our nation are stronger when we invest in our schools and support our teachers,” Sen. Duckworth said. “I’m proud to recognize this year’s National Blue Ribbon Schools across Illinois and their efforts to help students thrive inside and outside the classroom. I will continue to work alongside Senator Durbin to ensure that all students—no matter their zip code—have the opportunity to grow and thrive.” Created in 1982 by the Reagan Administration, the Blue Ribbon Schools Program was the highest federal recognition a school could receive. The program showcased the best teaching practices of educators and encouraged other schools to model them. Since its inception, the program has honored more than 9,000 public, private, charter, and parochial schools nationwide. Joining Casten, Durbin, and Duckworth in introducing the resolution are U.S. Representatives Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Bill Foster (D-IL-11), Johnathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Brad Schneider (D-IL-10), and Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14). Full text of the resolution is available here. Illinois schools that were selected for the 2025 Blue Ribbon Schools designation prior to the discontinuation of the program are: Ascension Catholic School – Oak Park, Illinois Clarendon Hills Middle School – Clarendon Hills, Illinois Glen Oaks Elementary School – Hickory Hills, Illinois Highlands Elementary School – La Grange, Illinois Kennedy Junior High School – Lisle, Illinois Liberty Intermediate School – Bourbonnais, Illinois Lincoln-Way East High School – Frankfort, Illinois Lyons Township High School – La Grange, Illinois Mascoutah Middle School – Mascoutah, Illinois Our Lady of Mount Carmel Academy – Chicago, Illinois Pleasantdale Middle School – Burr Ridge, Illinois Prescott Elementary School – Chicago, Illinois Regina Dominican High School – Wilmette, Illinois Sarah Adams Elementary School – Lake Zurich, Illinois St. Anne Catholic School – Barrington, Illinois St. Giles School – Oak Park, Illinois St. John of the Cross Parish School – Western Springs, Illinois St. Matthias School – Chicago, Illinois St. Norbert School – Northbrook, Illinois St. Therese Chinese Catholic School – Chicago, Illinois Sunset Ridge Elementary School – Northfield, Illinois The Academy at St. Joan of Arc – Evanston, Illinois Timothy Christian P–8 – Elmhurst, Illinois Walker Elementary School – Clarendon Hills, Illinois Warren Elementary School – Warren, Illinois Wheaton Academy – West Chicago, Illinois William Fremd High School – Palatine, Illinois Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart – Lake Forest, Illinois ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-raises-alarm-over-planned-va-health-care-staffing,"Congressman Krishnamoorthi Raises Alarm Over Planned VA Health Care Staffing Cuts, Presses for Answers on Impact to Veterans",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) today sent a letter to Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins expressing serious concern over reports that the VA plans to eliminate as many as 35,000 health care positions across the Veterans Health Administration, including clinical and support roles. In the letter, Congressman Krishnamoorthi warns that eliminating currently vacant positions risks worsening wait times, disrupting continuity of care, and limiting access to critical services for veterans nationwide — particularly in systems that are already under strain. “Veterans across the country rely on the VA for timely, high-quality medical care, mental health services, and benefits processing,"" Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote. ""In Illinois alone, hundreds of thousands of veterans depend on VA health care and services, including veterans affected by toxic exposures recognized under the PACT Act.” Congressman Krishnamoorthi highlights the potential impact on Illinois veterans, noting that hundreds of vacancies at major VA facilities in the Chicago area — including the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center and the Lovell Federal Health Care Center — are reportedly slated for elimination. “The fact that a position is vacant does not mean it is unnecessary. In many VA facilities, vacancies reflect persistent hiring challenges in a tight health-care labor market — not a lack of need. From the perspective of veterans awaiting appointments, delayed procedures, or mental health services, an unfilled position often represents care that has not yet arrived, not care that is no longer required.” The letter also cites warnings from health care staff already working in VA facilities, including reports that existing vacancies have pushed staff to a breaking point and made staffing shortages the new norm. Absent a clear, facility-by-facility explanation of how eliminating these positions would improve care delivery, Congressman Krishnamoorthi expresses concern that the decision could lock in staffing shortages, limit future capacity, and prolong wait times — particularly as more veterans seek care under expanded eligibility through the PACT Act. Congressman Krishnamoorthi requests detailed responses from the Department by January 3, 2026, including how VA is assessing the impact of these job eliminations on veterans’ wait times, how it plans to ensure sufficient staffing capacity if veteran enrollment increases, and whether preserving and filling high-need clinical and mental health roles could improve care delivery. Emphasizing the stakes of these decisions, he concludes: “Veterans kept their promise to our country. We must keep ours to them. Decisions that affect staffing levels at the VA should be guided first and foremost by their impact on veterans’ health, safety, and dignity.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-jayapal-mcbride-foushee-lead-legislation-end-trump-use-police,"Quigley, Jayapal, McBride, Foushee Lead Legislation to End Trump Use of Police for Immigration Enforcement",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,quigley,https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Quigley (IL-05), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Sarah McBride (DE-At Large), and Valerie Foushee (NC-04) re-introduced the Protecting the Rights of Towns against federal Enforcement contrary to Constitutional Tenets for (PROTECT) Immigration Act, legislation which would end the deputization of local and state police departments to enforce immigration law. The PROTECT Immigration Act would rescind the statutory authority for the federal government's 287(g) Program, which allows the Department of Homeland Security to enter into agreements with state and local law enforcement agencies to enforce federal immigration law. “The Trump administration just spent months terrorizing immigrants in the Chicagoland area. Their actions led to domestic violence victims fleeing a courthouse rather than receive restraining orders against their abusers, all out of fear that ICE or local law enforcement would detain and deport them,” said Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05). “I met with immigrants and their neighbors who are afraid to call for help or report crimes in their neighborhoods because of Trump’s deliberate erosion of trust between communities and local police. And now the Trump administration is running ads targeting local police and offering $50,000 signing bonuses to pull critical law enforcement away from day-to-day policing in order to arrest and detain hardworking immigrants with no criminal records. We must bring an end to the 287(g) program and cut off one of the avenues this administration has exploited to intimidate immigrant communities.” “Allowing local law enforcement to be deputized to kidnap and disappear immigrants undercuts the trust that local police rely on to maintain public safety in our communities,” said Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07). “Immigrants and their U.S. citizen loved ones stop reporting crimes out of fear of being kidnapped and deported. Local police are spread thin enforcing federal civil immigration law. We know that Trump is not targeting criminals, he is targeting our friends, neighbors, co-workers, and pillars of our community. This lawlessness must end immediately.” ""I’m proud to co-lead this legislation with Congressman Quigley to restore trust, safety, and integrity to our immigration system. For too long, the 287(g) program has drained local resources, fueled racial profiling, and made communities less safe — and it’s time we end it. The PROTECT Immigration Act makes clear that immigration enforcement belongs with trained federal authorities, guaranteeing that local law enforcement can focus exclusively on keeping our communities safe. This bill would take a step toward restoring trust between local communities and police departments so every family can live with dignity and without fear,” said Representative Sarah McBride (DE-At Large). “The Trump Administration’s attempt to expand the 287(g) Program is a direct assault on civil rights and the Constitution,” said Representative Valerie Foushee (NC-04). “Having served in local law enforcement for more than 20 years, I know policing should protect and support our communities, not divide it, and deputizing local officers into immigration enforcers only erodes public trust, undermines public safety, and deepens fear. We need laws in place that restore fairness and uphold justice. That’s why I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the PROTECT Immigration Act, which will reverse this harmful program and take an important step toward repairing the flaws in our broken immigration system.” “In just one year, the Trump administration has massively expanded the 287(g) program and distorted it in ways Congress never intended, exploiting local law enforcement resources for its dystopian mass deportation agenda,” said Naureen Shah, director of policy and government affairs for the ACLU’s Equality Division. “Enlisting local law enforcement for mass deportations isn’t just a waste of taxpayer dollars – it terrorizes our communities, undermines public safety and fuels racial profiling. We thank Congressman Quigley for his leadership and urge our members of Congress to pass the PROTECT Immigration Act without delay.” “The rapid expansion of the 287(g) program under the Trump administration represents yet another way that mass deportation undermines public safety for all Americans. When local police serve as a force multiplier for ICE, people become more afraid to report crime and less trusting of local police officers. Local law enforcement agencies should prioritize real public safety concerns in their communities rather than waste limited manpower making traffic stops that turn into detention and deportation for long-standing community members who pose no threat. The PROTECT Act takes the overdue step of repealing a program that is unnecessary for effective enforcement of immigration laws, but continues to have a harmful track record for public safety,” said Nayna Gupta, Policy Director at the American Immigration Council. Quigley has championed the PROTECT Immigration Act since 2017. The PROTECT Immigration Act would: Repeal the statutory authority for the 287(g) Program; and Clarify that state and local law enforcement lack ""inherent authority"" to arrest people for suspected immigration offenses. The legislation is also cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Eleanor Holmes Norton (Del.-DC), Sarah Jacobs (CA-51), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Henry ""Hank"" Johnson (GA-04), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases/ramirez-tlaib-statement-death-illinois-resident-north-lake-processing-center,"Ramirez, Tlaib Statement on Death of Illinois Resident at North Lake Processing Center in Michigan",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Delia C. Ramirez,R000617,ramirez.house.gov,ramirez,https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC—Today, Congresswomen Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) released the following statement after receiving notification that a 56-year-old immigrant man, Nenko Stanev Gantchev, a resident of Illinois and a citizen of Bulgaria, died on December 15th in ICE custody at the North Lake Processing Center in Michigan. “We are deeply concerned about the death of Mr. Gantchev, an Illinois resident who was detained at the for-profit GEO Group’s North Lake Processing Center. While ICE claims he died of natural causes, the circumstances surrounding his death are not yet clear, and we know there have been numerous complaints from family members and advocates about inhumane conditions and inadequate medical care at North Lake. We demand an immediate, transparent investigation into the circumstances of Mr. Gantchev’s death, including an investigation into reports from other detainees that he asked for medical assistance and did not receive it in time to save his life. To date, we are aware of at least 30 deaths at ICE detention centers this year, making 2025 the deadliest year for immigrants in ICE custody. The Trump administration’s attacks on our communities and immigrant neighbors must end. We will continue to provide oversight to hold ICE accountable and protect our residents and communities.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-kelly-sends-letters-secretary-rfk-jr-administrator-oz-health,"Rep. Kelly sends letters to Secretary RFK Jr., Administrator Oz, health insurance companies to investigate mistreatment of Mercedes Wells, Karrie Jones",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin L. Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,robinkelly,https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – After announcing the WELLS Act, U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) continues to take action and demand accountability for her constituent, Mercedes Wells, who was discharged while in active labor. She sent letters to five of the largest health insurance companies, the Office of Inspector General at the health department, and Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. “Racism in our healthcare system is preventing Black women from receiving the treatment they need and deserve,” said Rep. Kelly. “I’m working on this issue at every angle, from health insurance companies to hospital systems to federal investigations and legislation. We all have a role in improving our healthcare system. I brought the issue of maternal mortality to Congress. I will keep sharing Mercedes’s story, and uplifting the voices of women who have gone unheard, until every mother gets the care she deserves.” Reps. Kelly, Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and 31 Members of Congress sent a letter demanding investigations into the hospitals that mistreated Wells and Karrie Jones, another Black woman who was delayed care, to the Office of Inspector General at the Department of Health and Human Services. Formal investigations should be launched to determine whether Franciscan Health in Crown Point, Indiana, and Dallas Regional Medical Center violated the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor (EMTALA) Act of 1986. “These cases [of Mercedes Wells and Karrie Jones] are not isolated failures; they are part of the ongoing warnings of the Black maternal health crisis, heightened by funding cuts for maternal health and equity,” wrote the Members. “Federal protections like EMTALA mean little without enforcement, transparency, and accountability.” Read the full letter here. Reps. Kelly, Yvette Clarke (NY-09), and 49 Members of Congress sent a letter urging Secretary Kennedy to wield his department’s oversight powers to ensure hospitals adhere to patient-safety standards. Hospitals must also comply with civil rights protections of the Affordable Care Act, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race. “These failures in judgment and oversight are unacceptable and raise serious concerns about whether hospitals receiving federal funds are meeting their obligations under federal law, including patient safety standards and nondiscrimination requirements,” wrote the members. Read the full letter here. Rep. Kelly also sent letters to the CEOs of major health insurance companies, including Humana, UnitedHealth Group, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, and Cigna Group. She is urging health insurance companies to utilize their market position to improve policies and outcomes for patients. As she writes in her letter, “While your organization is not a direct provider of hospital services, health insurance companies play a pivotal role in shaping hospital standards through contracting requirements, quality metrics, and network adequacy.” Read the full letters to Jim Rechtin with Humana, Stephen Hemsely with United Health Group, Steve Nelson with Aetna, Kim Keck with Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, and David Cordani with Cigna Group.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-leads-her-colleagues-in-demanding-the-trump-administration-reverse-its-termination-of-tps-for-burma,Duckworth Leads Her Colleagues in Demanding the Trump Administration Reverse its Termination of TPS for Burma,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – After Donald Trump continued his extreme, anti-immigrant campaign by terminating Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Burma, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) led her Senate Democratic colleagues in demanding that the Trump Administration immediately reverse this harmful, misguided policy and reinstate Burma’s TPS designation. In the letter to U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the Senators highlighted the inconsistencies in the Department of Homeland Security’s rationale for terminating TPS and urged the Administration to stop staking the lives of lawful TPS beneficiaries on the misleading claims of authoritarian leaders and advancing a policy that will force them to return to an active war zone. In addition to Duckworth, the letter is co-signed by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Tina Smith (D-MN), Edward Markey (D-MA) and Michael Bennet (D-CO). In the letter, the Senators wrote: “Your termination notice ignores the Burmese military’s brutality, often targeted at returnees, and heartlessly requires TPS holders to return to an active war zone. We ask that you stop relying on the claims of authoritarian leaders to justify politically expedient TPS terminations and immediately reverse this decision.” The Senators continued: “We are particularly alarmed that your justification for terminating TPS for Burma embraces the talking points of Burma’s military junta. In your termination notice, you highlight the military State Administration Council’s self-dissolution and revocation of its 2021 state of emergency and the National Defense and Security Council’s plans to hold what you deem “free and fair” elections as signs of major improvement in Burma that guided your decision. However, you fail to acknowledge that, after ending emergency rule in July, military leaders immediately reimposed a state of emergency and martial law in townships in 9 of Burma’s 14 states and regions, admitted that scheduled elections in December 2025 and January 2026 will not be nationwide and passed a law designed to criminalize protests of the electoral process—guaranteeing tight military control over election administration.” Full text of the letter is available below and on the Senator’s website: Dear Secretary Noem and Secretary Rubio: We write to express deep concern about the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Burma. Your termination notice ignores the Burmese military’s brutality, often targeted at returnees, and heartlessly requires TPS holders to return to an active war zone. We ask that you stop relying on the claims of authoritarian leaders to justify politically expedient TPS terminations and immediately reverse this decision. Burma was initially designated for TPS on May 25, 2021, on the basis of extraordinary and temporary conditions caused by a military coup that sparked political and humanitarian crises characterized by state-perpetrated violence against civilians, the arbitrary arrest and detention of demonstrators and the persecution of minority groups such as the Rohingya Muslims. This designation was subsequently extended and redesignated, most recently on May 26, 2024, with DHS citing ongoing violence in 315 of Burma’s 330 townships; the abduction and trafficking of children for use in combat; and dire humanitarian needs stemming from food insecurity, a deteriorating economy and a collapsing healthcare system. Despite these findings, on November 24, 2025, you capriciously terminated TPS for Burma, effective January 26, 2026, asserting that “the situation in Burma has improved enough that it is safe for Burmese citizens to return home.” This characterization belies facts on the ground in Burma, which has been mired by intensified civil war since February 2021 and is reeling from a devastating earthquake in March 2025 that pushed the country’s already strained infrastructure and health system further towards failure. It also appears contrary to the Department of State’s own appraisal of conditions in Burma, including its level “Do Not Travel” advisory for the country that warns “Do not travel to Burma due to civil unrest, armed conflict, and arbitrary enforcement of local laws.” We are particularly alarmed that your justification for terminating TPS for Burma embraces the talking points of Burma’s military junta. In your termination notice, you highlight the military State Administration Council’s self-dissolution and revocation of its 2021 state of emergency and the National Defense and Security Council’s plans to hold what you deem “free and fair” elections as signs of major improvement in Burma that guided your decision. However, you fail to acknowledge that, after ending emergency rule in July, military leaders immediately reimposed a state of emergency and martial law in townships in 9 of Burma’s 14 states and regions, admitted that scheduled elections in December 2025 and January 2026 will not be nationwide and passed a law designed to criminalize protests of the electoral process—guaranteeing tight military control over election administration. Contrary to your claims, these elections are not expected to alleviate the conflict in Burma. Since its 2021 coup, the Burmese military has banned or dissolved 40 political parties, leading international observers to denounce the upcoming elections as a farcical attempt to legitimize military rule. Additionally, humanitarian conditions have worsened this fall, as the military expands airstrikes on civilian sites and intensifies its campaign against Christian and Muslim minorities. For these reasons, numerous international and non-governmental organizations have rebuked your TPS termination and the misleading claims of improvement that buoy it. The United Nations Special Rapporteur responsible for monitoring human rights violations in Burma condemned the termination as “an assault on human rights and human decency based on a cruel fiction that ignores overwhelming evidence of Myanmar’s [Burma’s] spiraling crisis,” adding that, “It is inconceivable that any good-faith review of Myanmar’s situation could conclude that conditions are safe or improving…Attacks on civilians have reached record highs this year as the military burns villages, bombs churches, and jails, tortures, and executes its opponents.” These pervasive acts of violence inhibit safe return, and it is nonsensical and cruel to force 3,969 Burmese nationals and lawful TPS holders in the U.S. back to Burma to face violence—if not targeted persecution, detention and killing—when conditions clearly merit a TPS extension. It is unconscionable that you refuse to interrogate the assertions of Burma’s military junta—leaders of which your own Departments would block from entering the United States due to their gross violations of human rights—because their claims happen to help you justify President Trump’s attacks on our lawful immigration system. Burmese TPS holders are human rights advocates, opposition figures, journalists and others who champion democracy and human rights, which are values that the United States has historically upheld and that enrich American communities. We ask that you immediately reverse your termination of TPS for Burma, and that you immediately cease staking the lives of lawful TPS holders on the promises of dictators and abusive military regimes. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-led-provision-to-rein-in-trumps-misuse-of-the-military-passes-congress-awaits-presidents-signature,"Duckworth-Led Provision to Rein in Trump’s Misuse of the Military Passes Congress, Awaits President’s Signature",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.] — As the Trump Administration continues to send federal agents and our nation’s servicemembers into American communities to intimidate their fellow Americans, the Senate passed a provision authored and championed by U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) that would rein in Trump’s misuse of the military, help strengthen public trust in the military and ensure servicemembers identify themselves as part of the Armed Forces when assisting federal law enforcement in the United States. The Senator’s provision—which is a modified version of her Military in Law Enforcement Accountability (MiLEA) Act—was included in the National Defense Authorization Act that both chambers of Congress have now passed. The provision will ensure that servicemembers identify themselves properly to avoid public misunderstanding about who is providing logistical support versus conducting arrests or law enforcement duties. “It is inexcusable that the Trump Administration is intentionally trying to borrow the respected image of the military and make it hard for Americans to tell the difference between abusive federal agents and our professional servicemembers—with DHS agents dressing in camo and wielding military-style weapons,” said Duckworth. “In my own experience serving in the National Guard, I saw firsthand the difference that drawing a bright line between the roles of our military and law enforcement can make in terms of maintaining public trust in our military. Although the courts have stopped him in city after city, it’s clear Donald Trump wants our professional military to defend his incredibly abusive and unprofessional agents in carrying out his cruel and extreme domestic policies. My provision would provide accountability to the public during tense moments when troops might be interacting with citizens, from protests to natural disasters to humanitarian crises—and help build back the public’s trust in the military.” Duckworth has repeatedly criticized Trump and his Administration for repeatedly trying to blur the lines between our highly trained troops and lawless federal agents, which is eroding public trust in our military. During her questioning at SASC hearing she successfully secured, Duckworth pressed U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) Commander General Gregory M. Guillot, USAF, about whether the Department was ensuring differentiation between our troops and federal agents. He confirmed that he had not received any guidance or orders from the Administration on making this distinction. However, he assured that he has the authority to direct members under his command to distinguish themselves from ICE. Duckworth successfully secured this hearing in early October—weeks after she led all of her fellow SASC Democrats in calling on SASC Chairman Wicker to hold this hearing, and shortly after she blocked expedited passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in order to secure it. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-led-provisions-to-protect-rock-island-arsenal-support-illinois-quantum-technology-research-and-safeguard-care-for-veterans-passes-congress-awaits-presidents-signature,"Duckworth-Led Provisions to Protect Rock Island Arsenal, Support Illinois Quantum Technology Research and Safeguard Care for Veterans Passes Congress, Awaits President’s Signature",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.] — Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years and is a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), successfully secured several important provisions to support Illinoisans, servicemembers, Veterans and our state’s economy that passed Congress this week and are heading to the President’s desk to be signed into law. Some of the priorities Duckworth secured to help Illinoisans include protecting Rock Island Arsenal from any restructuring until the Army provides more information about their proposed plans, supporting research and development at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park in Chicago and expanding access to vital health care services for our state’s servicemembers, Veterans and military families. “Throughout bipartisan negotiations, I’m proud to have helped lead the charge to secure several important provisions that will support our servicemembers and ensure Illinois’s defense innovation ecosystem and Rock Island Arsenal are as strong as possible,” said Senator Duckworth. “These critical provisions will help benefit our state by protecting operations at Rock Island Arsenal, protecting health care access for our military and Veteran families and supporting groundbreaking quantum computing research in Chicago.” Key Duckworth-led provisions set to be signed into law that will support Illinoisans include: Supporting and Protecting Rock Island Arsenal Operations: By Protecting Jobs: This provision limits funds available to the Secretary of the Army allocated for restructuring Joint Munitions Command and Army Sustainment Command until the Army provides more information about their proposed plan to integrate the two commands, helping ensure operations and jobs at Rock Island Arsenal are not unnecessarily affected. By Sustaining Workload and Industrial Base: This provision establishes a 5-year pilot program requiring DoD to give preference to public-private partnerships in arsenals and depots, especially those non-public partners that ensure a workshare to DoD employees to protect critical skills. This provision would help ensure arsenals and factories, like Rock Island Arsenal, remain active and viable while preserving the skilled workforce, equipment and production capacity critical to the nation’s defense industrial base. This is a modified version of Senator Durbin’s Arsenal Workload Sustainment Act. By Constructing a Child Development Center at Rock Island Arsenal: The bill authorizes $50 million in Major Construction funds for a new addition to the Child Development Center at Rock Island Arsenal and to consolidate the existing facilities and make upgrades to meet DoD guidelines and safety requirements, ensuring that eligible families at Rock Island Arsenal have a safe, modern facility for childcare. By Improving Predictive Manufacturing Analytics at Army Arsenals: Language urging the continued implementation of industrial control networks across our Army’s arsenals to enable the collection, aggregation, and analysis of data associated with the manufacture and repair of equipment and supplies. This work completed by MxD, the nation’s digital manufacturing and cybersecurity institute, located in Chicago, helps ensure the efficiency and security of the critical manufacturing completed at Rock Island Arsenal and the Army’s other arsenals.? By Expanding Robotic Enhancements for Armaments Manufacturing: Language authorizing an additional $5 million for the Secretary of the Army to expand prototyping and production capacity by integrating robotics, automation and digital manufacturing into the munitions industrial base, further modernizing production at Rock Island Arsenal with technology pioneered by innovators in Chicago.? By Improving the Governance of the Organic Industrial Base: Language directing the Army to analyze the effectiveness of their current governance and resourcing model for the Army’s arsenals, depots as well as ammunition plants and identify opportunities for changes to ensure the enterprise and its workforce can support the military’s munitions and sustainment requirements now and in the future. The Senator helped secure this provision alongside Senator Tom Cotton (R-AK). ? Safeguarding Veteran Medical Care in North Chicago: This provision, led with Senator Durbin, secures a one-year extension of the Joint Medical Facility Demonstration Fund, which supports the operations of the North Chicago-based Lovell Federal Health Care Center (FHCC). This provision will help safeguard continued access to vital services for military families and Veterans in the area. Protecting Cities Like Chicago from the Trump Administration’s Overreach with the Military: Two provisions improve American civil rights and put guardrails on misuse of the military domestically, including: By Distinguishing Troops from Federal Agents. A modified version of a provision of Senator Duckworth’s Military In Law Enforcement Accountability Act (MiLEAA) requires servicemembers identify themselves as part of the military when assisting federal law enforcement when operating in the United States. As the Trump Administration continues to send federal agents and our nation’s military into our communities to intimidate their fellow Americans, this provision ensures that servicemembers identify themselves properly—to avoid public misunderstanding about who is providing logistical support versus conducting arrests or law enforcement duties. By Requiring Mandatory Training to Servicemembers on Rules for Use of Force and Legal Responsibilities During Domestic Deployments. This provision helps ensure troops know how to responsibly operate within the bounds of domestic laws and protect American civil rights. This provision requires DoD to provide legal training to all servicemembers, including a refresher within 90 days of any mobilization or deployment, on their responsibilities under the law of armed conflict, rules of engagement, defense support for civil authorities and standing rules for the use of force within the United States. Investing in Quantum Technology in Chicago: Language recognizing the importance of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) program, which aims to build a commercially useful fault-tolerant quantum computer (FTQC) by 2033, and encouraging the Department to concurrently prepare algorithms to operate those machines, while the hardware is being built. This provision recognizes the importance of the development of the first FTQC, which is being built at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park in Chicago, Illinois. Championing Domestic Manufacturing in Belleville: A provision requiring DoD to increase investments in and develop strategies related to enhancing the capacity, technological advancement, and long-term stability of the domestic textile and footwear industrial base, including expand domestic production capacity of textiles or footwear, maximize the use of annual or multi-year contracts for acquisitions to ensure stability and predictability to industry, and assess the resilience of the supply chain for textiles and footwear industries and reduce reliance from foreign manufacturers. This language is a modified version of the Senator’s Better Outfitting Our Troops (BOOTS) Act, which recognizes that our defense industrial base for combat boots needs investment in order for it to support our troops and help ensure they have the sturdiest and most protective boots in a possible war, like those manufactured in Illinois at Belleville’s Belleville Boot Manufacturing Co. Advancing U.S. Bioindustrial Manufacturing Innovation in Champaign: This provision supports the innovative work being done at advanced facilities like the University of Illinois Fermentation and Agriculture Biomanufacturing Hub (iFAB) by requiring more information on how DoD is investing in this technology critical for national security. Encouraging Investment in Nuclear Energy and Domestic Printed Circuit Boards: A provision allowing the Office of Strategic Capital to enter into investments in nuclear fusion and fission energy and directing OSC to explore printed circuit boards (PCBs) and PCB assemblies, to ensure these critical technologies—which Illinois plays a central role in manufacturing and advancing—has sufficient capital investments to scale for warfighting. Protecting Servicemembers from Dangerous PFAS in their Protective Garments: Language requiring the DoD to articulate its plan for acquiring chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threat protective garments free from toxic PFAS chemicals as soon as possible.?Innovative Illinois research and development and manufacturing is leading the way on alternatives that protect servicemembers without relying on toxic chemicals. Supporting Investments in Biomechanical, Physiological and Psychological Research on Injuries. Language that expresses support for investments in biomechanical, physiological, and psychological research to mitigate injury risks and improve physical resilience in combat operations. Designing a New Aircraft Maintenance Hangar at Scott Air Force Base: The bill authorizes $6 million in Planning and Design funds for the construction of a new aircraft maintenance hangar to support the training and operational mission of the 126th Aerial Refueling Wing at Scott Air Force Base. The current hangar was constructed in 1956, remains in disrepair and no longer meets Department of Defense standards or mission requirements, making a new hangar critical to the Wing’s mission. Renovating General Jones Readiness Center: The bill authorizes $5 million in Planning and Design funds for major alternations to the General Richard L. Jones National Guard Readiness Center in Chicago. This facility was built in 1931 and remains one of the largest readiness centers in the country. Renovating it to meet mission requirements is a top priority for the Illinois National Guard. Other key funding for Illinois projects set to be signed into law include: $5 million authorized in Planning and Design funds to support forging annex at Rock Island Arsenal. $3.05 million authorized in Planning and Design funds to support range control at Marseilles Training Center. $8 million authorized in Planning and Design funds to support the Peoria Armory Readiness Center. -30- Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-casten-introduce-resolution-honoring-illinois-blue-ribbon-schools-after-trump-administration-ends-program,"Durbin, Duckworth, Casten Introduce Resolution Honoring Illinois’ Blue Ribbon Schools After Trump Administration Ends Program",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The resolution recognizes the 28 Illinois schools who earned a designation as a Blue Ribbon School before the Trump Administration ended the program earlier this year WASHINGTON— After the Trump Administration ended the Blue Ribbon Schools Program, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and U.S. Representative Sean Casten (D-IL-06) today introduced a resolution to recognize the 28 Illinois schools that were selected to receive the designation of Blue Ribbon Schools this year. The Blue Ribbon Schools Program was a national recognition from the U.S. Department of Education given to public, charter, and private schools for their exemplary education and work to close the achievement gap. “Rather than continue our nation’s tradition of celebrating schools that have dedicated themselves to closing the achievement gap, the Trump Administration has focused its energy on closing the Department of Education at the detriment of our nation’s students and their education. While the Trump Administration will not recognize the hard work of educators, I am proud to celebrate the achievements of Illinois schools who earned the title of being a Blue Ribbon School,” said Durbin. “My resolution with Senator Duckworth and Congressman Casten gives these schools – and the educators, faculty, and staff that run them – the recognition they deserve.” “Our state and our nation are stronger when we invest in our schools and support our teachers,” Duckworth said. “I’m proud to recognize this year’s National Blue Ribbon Schools across Illinois and their efforts to help students thrive inside and outside the classroom. I will continue to work alongside Senator Durbin to ensure that all students—no matter their zip code—have the opportunity to grow and thrive.” “Illinois’ Blue Ribbon Schools represent the very best of our state’s education system,” said Casten. “Teachers, administrators, and students work tirelessly to earn this distinction, which recognizes a sustained commitment to academic excellence. Although the Trump Administration needlessly ended the program, Congress can and should continue to honor deserving institutions. I am proud to introduce this resolution with Senator Durbin to ensure their achievements receive the recognition they’ve earned.” Created in 1982 by the Reagan Administration, the Blue Ribbon Schools Program was the highest federal recognition a school could receive. The program showcased the best teaching practices of educators and encouraged other schools to model them. Since its inception, the program honored more than 9,000 public, private, charter, and parochial schools nationwide. Joining Durbin, Duckworth, and Casten in introducing the resolution are U.S. Representatives Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Johnathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), and Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09). Full text of the resolution is available here. Illinois schools that were selected for the 2025 Blue Ribbon Schools designation prior to the discontinuation of the program are: Ascension Catholic School – Oak Park, Illinois Clarendon Hills Middle School – Clarendon Hills, Illinois Glen Oaks Elementary School – Hickory Hills, Illinois Highlands Elementary School – La Grange, Illinois Kennedy Junior High School – Lisle, Illinois Liberty Intermediate School – Bourbonnais, Illinois Lincoln-Way East High School – Frankfort, Illinois Lyons Township High School – La Grange, Illinois Mascoutah Middle School – Mascoutah, Illinois Our Lady of Mount Carmel Academy – Chicago, Illinois Pleasantdale Middle School – Burr Ridge, Illinois Prescott Elementary School – Chicago, Illinois Regina Dominican High School – Wilmette, Illinois Sarah Adams Elementary School – Lake Zurich, Illinois St. Anne Catholic School – Barrington, Illinois St. Giles School – Oak Park, Illinois St. John of the Cross Parish School – Western Springs, Illinois St. Matthias School – Chicago, Illinois St. Norbert School – Northbrook, Illinois St. Therese Chinese Catholic School – Chicago, Illinois Sunset Ridge Elementary School – Northfield, Illinois The Academy at St. Joan of Arc – Evanston, Illinois Timothy Christian P–8 – Elmhurst, Illinois Walker Elementary School – Clarendon Hills, Illinois Warren Elementary School – Warren, Illinois Wheaton Academy – West Chicago, Illinois William Fremd High School – Palatine, Illinois Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart – Lake Forest, Illinois -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-duckworth-submit-criminal-referral-to-doj-regarding-trump-officials-unconstitutional-immigration-enforcement-activity,"Durbin, Duckworth Submit Criminal Referral To DOJ Regarding Trump Officials’ Unconstitutional Immigration Enforcement Activity",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The Senators notify DOJ they are gathering and preserving additional evidence of violations of Section 242 amid “Operation Midway Blitz” and other unlawful immigration raids across the country WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today referred the unlawful actions of Trump Administration officials and federal law enforcement agents responsible for immigration enforcement in Illinois to Attorney General Pam Bondi for investigation. The Trump Administration repeatedly appears to have violated the constitutional rights of individuals in Illinois during “Operation Midway Blitz,” and the officials responsible for these violations are acting with impunity. Under 18 U.S.C. § 242, it is a federal crime for any person acting “under color of any law, statute, ordinance, regulation, or custom” to “willfully subject[] any person . . . to the deprivation of any rights, privileges, or immunities secured or protected by the Constitution or laws of the United States.” Anyone who willfully violates another person’s Fourth Amendment rights by engaging in warrantless arrests or use of excessive force under color of law may be held liable under Section 242. If this Administration fails to pursue charges, the statute of limitations will permit the next Administration to prosecute officials who acted unlawfully. The Senators wrote, “We write to alert the Department of Justice to potential violations of law by federal immigration agents and senior Administration officials during implementation of President Trump’s mass deportation campaign—and specifically the so-called ‘Operation Midway Blitz’ in Illinois. This enforcement campaign—defined by use of excessive force and warrantless arrests—has reached multiple states and is intentionally creating fear and havoc in cities such as Chicago, Los Angeles, Charlotte, New Orleans, and Minneapolis. As indicated by agency leadership, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is working with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in operations in more than 27 cities and looking to expand their interior operations.” The Senators continued, “During ‘Operation Midway Blitz’, federal immigration agents have violated the Fourth Amendment by conducting warrantless arrests and use of excessive force as they violently confront individuals, including U.S. citizens, during immigration enforcement operations. They have shoved Chicagoans, including U.S. citizens, into unmarked vehicles, tased them, punched them, launched pepper balls at them, and tear gassed and shot them.” In the letter, the Senators cite various ways federal agents appear to have violated individuals’ Fourth Amendment rights. Federal agents have repeatedly and unjustifiably arrested individuals without warrants, including incidents in which agents have broken car windows as they executed such arrests. In the first six months of this Administration’s immigration crackdown, there have been at least 50 documented instances of immigration agents breaking car windows, compared to eight public accounts of agents breaking windows in the previous decade. Immigration agents also have engaged in use of excessive force. Federal immigration agents have unnecessarily tackled, punched, and slammed people to the ground with such force that targeted individuals have reported broken bones and needing medical care. Video footage, eyewitness accounts, and multiple reports confirm these incidents of use of excessive force. Federal immigration agents have unnecessarily deployed tear gas and fired pepper balls to intimidate and disperse journalists and peaceful protesters, including clergy and other community members. These chemical agents have sickened people—including children, pregnant women, and the elderly—and have created hazards for motorists. Federal immigration agents also have unjustifiably used tasers to disable individuals during “Operation Midway Blitz.” In one instance, a fearful U.S. citizen tried to prevent an immigration agent from forcibly opening his car door; in response, the agent tased him in the face, requiring him to seek medical treatment at a hospital. Senior Trump Administration officials appear to have sanctioned and even approved the persistent use of warrantless arrests and use of excessive force by federal agents involved in immigration enforcement operations in Illinois. In an October 30 deposition, Gregory Bovino, a senior U.S. Border Patrol agent responsible for Midway Blitz enforcement operations, praised federal immigration agents’ use of force, stating: “The use of force that I’ve seen has been exemplary—the least amount of force necessary to accomplish the mission.” He also stated: “If someone strays into a pepper ball, then that’s on them. Don’t protest and don’t trespass.” After departing Illinois in November, Bovino returned to Chicago earlier this week. In the letter, the Senators cite legal challenges where courts have attempted to rein in these unlawful enforcement activities. A federal judge in the Northern District of Illinois, for example, issued a preliminary injunction that prohibits federal agents from using pepper balls, chemical agents, or other projectiles at the Broadview Processing Facility or anywhere in the Chicagoland area, absent an imminent threat to federal agents, and also prohibits “hands-on physical force,” such as shoving someone to the ground, tackling or body slamming, restraint techniques such as chokeholds and neck restraints, and the indiscriminate use of chemical agents and projectiles. The judge issued the preliminary injunction, along with a lengthy opinion, after federal agents refused to comply with an initial and expanded temporary injunction in the same case. Incidents in the days that followed the preliminary injunction demonstrate that agents continued to defy the court’s order. The Senators wrote, “As you have previously noted, ‘No one is above the law.’ We agree, and that’s why we urge the Department of Justice to set aside partisan politics and immediately investigate the potential violations of Section 242 outlined above.” The Senators concluded, “Senator Durbin has directed Senate Judiciary Committee minority staff to continue gathering evidence of potential violations of Section 242 and other federal laws, and we will provide this evidence to the Department in due course. Federal law enforcement officers participating in ‘Operation Midway Blitz’ and other unnecessarily aggressive immigration enforcement activities throughout the United States, as well as their leadership directing them to engage in these inappropriate enforcement actions, should be on notice that we are closely monitoring such activities and that they can be held accountable for violating individuals’ constitutional rights.” A copy of the letter is available here. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-graham-introduce-bill-to-sunset-section-230-immunity-for-tech-companies-protect-americans-online,"Durbin, Graham Introduce Bill To Sunset Section 230 Immunity For Tech Companies, Protect Americans Online",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The Sunset Section 230 Act would repeal Section 230 two years after the date of enactment so that those harmed online can bring legal action against companies WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) today introduced the Sunset Section 230 Act, which would repeal Section 230 two years after the date of enactment so that those harmed online can bring legal action against companies and finally hold them accountable for the harms that occur on their platforms. “Children are being exploited and abused because Big Tech consistently prioritizes profits over people. Enough is enough. Sunsetting Section 230 will force Big Tech to come to the table to take ownership over the harms it has wrought. And if Big Tech doesn’t, this bill will open the courtroom to victims of its platforms. Parents have been begging Congress to step in, and it’s time we do so. I’m proud to partner with Senator Graham on this effort, and we will push for it to become law,” said Durbin. “I am extremely pleased that there is such wide and deep bipartisan support for repealing Section 230, which protects social media companies from being sued by the people whose lives they destroy. Giant social media platforms are unregulated, immune from lawsuits and are making billions of dollars in advertising revenue off some of the most unsavory content and criminal activity imaginable. It is past time to allow those who have been harmed by these behemoths to have their day in court,” said Graham. In addition to Durbin and Graham, the bill is sponsored by Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ashley Moody (R-FL), and Peter Welch (D-VT). “For nearly 30 years, Section 230 has provided Big Tech cover as they turn a blind eye to heinous crimes committed on their platforms. As Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, I’m glad to join my bipartisan colleagues in this effort to update our nation’s laws, reign in Section 230 and hold Big Tech accountable,” said Grassley. “When Section 230 was enacted 30 years ago it was intended to give small tech companies space to innovate. But today many of these companies are now worth billions and even trillions of dollars yet the law still shields them from accountability from harms that occur on their platforms including child exploitation and illegal fentanyl sales. Parents and victims should be able to hold these companies accountable by suing for damages, the same way they can sue if injured by nearly any other product,” said Klobuchar. “For too long, Big Tech giants have hidden behind the outdated shield of Section 230 to censor conservative voices and silence viewpoints they don't agree with. We must repeal Section 230 to finally hold Big Tech accountable and restore true freedom of speech and fairness online for the American people,” said Blackburn. “Big Tech hides behind Section 230 to dodge accountability while their platforms exploit children and inflict harm on the American people. Mark Zuckerberg and others have spent a decade claiming to support Section 230 reforms in public, while their lobbyists and lawyers fight tooth-and-nail behind the scenes. Our bipartisan measure would force Big Tech to the table with a bold demand: either negotiate sensible reforms now or lose your absolute immunity forever,” said Blumenthal. “As a former prosecutor and the mother of a school aged child I know firsthand the dangers our children face online. We are the first generation of parents having to deal with predators getting to our children under our own roofs through their devices. The old rules — stranger danger, don’t get in the van — aren’t enough to protect them anymore. That is why I am throwing my full support behind the Sunset Section 230 Act, and I urge my colleagues to get off the sidelines and finally do something to protect our kids,” said Moody. “The internet has dramatically transformed since the Communications Decency Act was passed in 1996. Nearly 30 years later, Section 230 has been used by America’s biggest tech giants not as a tool but as a shield, providing immunity from legal consequences when their platforms harm consumers. Our bipartisan bill to sunset Section 230 is an important step forward in a bipartisan effort to hold Big Tech accountable. It will protect children and other vulnerable communities from harm, misinformation, and exploitation,” said Welch. Section 230 was created in 1996, as a part of the Communications Decency Act, to allow then-fledgling social media companies to grow without fear of lawsuits. Those days have long since passed, as these companies are now some of the most powerful in the history of the world. In the digital era, thousands of Americans, many of whom are children, have been targeted by online perpetrators who engage in harassment, bullying, the dissemination of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), and sextortion—a type of online blackmail using nude or sexually explicit images. In certain cases, victims of these crimes are driven to suicide within mere minutes or hours after being abused online, long before their loved ones ever knew they were victimized. Surviving victims and their families are unable to sue the social media companies that criminals use to commit these heinous acts due to protections under Section 230. This bill is endorsed by Less Than 3, Enough Is Enough, Zero Abuse Project, National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE), Institute for Family Studies, American Principles Project, Bull Moose Project, Protect Young Eyes, Concerned Women for America Action, Fairplay for Kids, ParentsSOS, David’s Legacy Foundation, Digital Progress Institute, Rights4Girls, and Digital Childhood Alliance. Full text of the bill is available here. Durbin has used his role on the Senate Judiciary Committee to prioritize child safety online through hearings, legislation, and oversight efforts. On January 31, 2024, while Durbin was serving as Chair, the Committee held a hearing featuring testimony from the CEOs of social media companies Discord, Meta, Snap, TikTok, and X (formerly known as Twitter). This hearing highlighted the ongoing risk to children and the immediate need for Congress to act on the bipartisan bills reported by the Committee. Durbin and U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) also joined forces to re-introduce the bipartisan STOP CSAM Act, which would combat online child sexual abuse material. The bill passed the Judiciary Committee unanimously and awaits action on the Senate floor. In addition, Durbin’s bipartisan Disrupt Explicit Forged Images and Non-Consensual Edits Act of 2024 (DEFIANCE Act) passed the Senate in July 2024—and was reintroduced in the Senate this year. The legislation would hold accountable those responsible for the proliferation of nonconsensual, sexually-explicit “deepfake” images and videos. The volume of “deepfake” content available online is increasing exponentially as the technology used to create it has become more accessible to the public. The overwhelming majority of this material is sexually explicit and produced without the consent of the person depicted. Earlier this year, the Judiciary Committee held a hearing entitled “Children’s Safety in the Digital Era: Strengthening Protections and Addressing Legal Gaps.” Durbin’s opening statement from that hearing is available here, and his questions for the witnesses are available here. Earlier this month, Durbin and Grassley introduced a bipartisan legislative package to address CSAM. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-shaheen-meet-with-polish-embassys-head-of-mission,"Durbin, Shaheen Meet With Polish Embassy’s Head Of Mission",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Co-Chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus, and U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, met with the Head of Mission at the Polish Embassy, Bogdan Klich, to discuss Poland’s strong support of Ukraine as Vladimir Putin continues his brutal war. They also discussed Russia’s provocative incursion into Polish airspace, creating a dangerous escalation of the war in Ukraine that marks the first time NATO planes engaged enemy targets in alliance airspace. “While I support efforts to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine started by Russia, it is also clear that after each such engagement or threatened deadline from President Trump, Russia’s attacks on Ukraine brazenly increased, not decreased,” said Durbin. “As I reiterated to Mr. Klich, we must stand strong together—the United States, Poland, and Ukraine—to push back on Vladimir Putin and ensure any peace agreement is not a sellout to Putin. I also reiterated that Poland is our ally, and I hope the Trump Administration takes the Russian drone incursions to NATO seriously.” “Poland is an invaluable NATO ally, a keystone of our collective defense on the Eastern flank and a steadfast partner in supporting Ukraine’s fight for freedom,” said Shaheen. “In our meeting today, I reiterated my deep reservations about the Trump Administration’s initial so-called ‘peace’ proposal that is willing to accommodate Putin’s demands at the expense of Ukraine’s sovereignty and broader U.S. and European security interests. The United States should follow Poland’s lead and recognize the urgency of the moment—now is the time for a strong, coordinated Allied posture.” In October, Durbin and Shaheen introduced a bipartisan resolution condemning Russian incursions into NATO territory and reaffirming Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty. Durbin has visited Poland multiple times in recent years, including in February 2022 just days before Russia began its most recent assault on Ukraine. Chicago, Illinois, is home to the largest population of those with Polish ancestry outside of Poland. The Illinois National Guard has a long-standing partnership with Poland that includes training and exchanges. The FY26 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which just passed the Senate yesterday, included a Durbin-supported provision prohibiting the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Europe, including Poland. Photos of the meeting are available here. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-fbi-deputy-directors-announced-departure,Durbin Statement On FBI Deputy Director’s Announced Departure,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement after FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced he’s departing his post after less than a year of service: “Dan Bongino was a bad pick from the start. His service was remarkably ineffective, highlighted by his woeful mishandling of the Epstein files and his need for a polygraph exam waiver to be eligible for the job. The men and women who protect our nation at the FBI deserve better than a conspiracy theorist podcaster with an axe to grind. “I encourage Director Patel to return to longstanding tradition and appoint an experienced career FBI agent who is interested in the agency’s ever-important day-to-day work of keeping our nation safe.” -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-upcoming-epstein-files-deadline,Durbin Statement On Upcoming Epstein Files Deadline,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement as tomorrow marks the statutory deadline for the Trump Administration to release the Epstein files: “This should be a big step towards transparency to the American public about the horrors of Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes. “As the statutory deadline to release the Epstein files approaches, it’s important to center survivors at the forefront. Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell committed horrific crimes that put young women through unspeakable trauma. Because of these survivors’ bravery, the American people may soon know a fuller truth. “That said, it’s also important to hold those responsible for the politicization of this case accountable. Pam Bondi, Kash Patel, and Dan Bongino intentionally misled the public before their appointments. Once in office, they let politics serve as their North Star—not justice. Stunt press conferences, binders with no new information, false proclamations on TV, and shoddy searches for the President’s name are shameful distractions from meaningful efforts to seek justice for survivors. “It took an act of Congress to get to this point. I will be looking closely for: appropriate redactions of victim’s identifying information, faulty redactions shielding those who caused harm from accountability, and any sense that the Administration is covering up for the wealthy and powerful. “Survivors and the public deserve transparency and accountability—no matter who it implicates.” -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-tillis-conaway-maloy-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-and-improve-enforcement-of-illegal-tobacco-products,"Durbin, Tillis, Conaway, Maloy Introduce Bipartisan Legislation To Strengthen And Improve Enforcement Of Illegal Tobacco Products",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"In 2024, DOJ and FDA established a task force to crack down on illegally sold vape products after Durbin urged the agencies to enforce federal laws against the unlawful sale of unauthorized e-cigarette products to children WASHINGTON — U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), along with U.S. Representative Herb Conaway Jr., MD (D-NJ-03) and U.S. Representative Celeste Maloy (R-UT-02), today introduced new bicameral and bipartisan legislation to crack down on illegal vape products that are targeted to children. The Strengthening Task Force Operations to Prevent Illicit Vaping Act (S.T.O.P. Illicit Vaping Act) would strengthen a federal multi-agency task force, led by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), to coordinate enforcement, information sharing, and strategy to combat the illegal importation, distribution, and sale of unauthorized e-cigarettes. In 2024, FDA and DOJ established this task force after Durbin repeatedly called on the agencies to better enforce federal laws against the unlawful sale of unauthorized e-cigarette products. Durbin secured $2 million for the task force in the Fiscal Year 2026 funding bill for Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA and Related Agencies. This funding will support the task force’s efforts to bring all criminal and civil tools to bear against the illegal manufacture, importation, distribution, and sale of e-cigarettes from China and other foreign countries. “If we hope to prevent the next generation of children from getting hooked on nicotine, we must enforce our existing laws and finally crack down on the illegal e-cigarette products that are flooding stores nationwide,” Durbin said. “My bipartisan legislation, the S.T.O.P. Illicit Vaping Act, would cement DOJ and FDA’s task force dedicated to preventing the unlawful sale of these unauthorized vape products.” “The flood of illegal and unregulated e-cigarettes, particularly from China, undermines public health, skirts federal law, and disadvantages businesses that play by the rules,” said Tillis. “The S.T.O.P. Illicit Vaping Act strengthens coordination among federal agencies to crack down on these illicit products, protect kids from unauthorized nicotine devices, and ensure our laws are enforced as Congress intended.” “The rise of illegally imported and unregulated e-cigarettes is a growing threat to public health, legitimate businesses, and the integrity of our enforcement system,” said Conaway. “As a physician, I understand the urgency of protecting Americans from illegal and dangerous tobacco products. The S.T.O.P. Illicit Vaping Act strengthens federal task forces on the front lines, equipping them with the tools and coordination necessary to disrupt illegal vaping networks. This bill takes a responsible, enforcement-focused approach to safeguarding communities and ensuring a lawful, transparent marketplace.” “There are clear laws on the books governing tobacco and vaping products, but those laws only matter if they’re enforced,” said Maloy. “The S.T.O.P. Illicit Vaping Act strengthens enforcement by improving coordination across agencies so illegal operators can’t take advantage of gaps in the system.” “The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids strongly supports the legislation introduced by Sen. Durbin and Sen. Tillis to help ensure the federal government is taking comprehensive enforcement action against the many illegal e-cigarette products that are currently on the market. We commend their efforts to prevent illegal e-cigarettes from being imported, distributed and sold in the United States and to hold bad actors accountable for endangering the health of our kids,” said Yolonda C. Richardson, President and CEO of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. Durbin has criticized FDA for its continued lack of urgency as millions of children have begun using addictive e-cigarettes. For years, FDA has failed to regulate e-cigarettes, falling years behind court-ordered and congressional mandated deadlines to review applications from vaping companies, and refusing to enforce the law and take action against companies marketing illegal vaping products to children. Under the Tobacco Control Act (TCA), e-cigarette companies are required to obtain authorization from FDA prior to entering the market, which the agency has neglected to properly enforce. In an effort to strengthen coordination and facilitate enforcement against the sale of unauthorized vaping products, the S.T.O.P. Illicit Vaping Act would formally codify the existing multi-agency task force to combat the illegal importation, distribution, and sale of e-cigarettes. Further, the bill would direct the task force to develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for reducing the number of unauthorized e-cigarettes on the market. The task force would be comprised of the Attorney General and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, as well as representatives from FDA; DOJ; Customs and Border Protection (CBP); the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); U.S. Marshals Service; U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPS); Federal Trade Commission (FTC); the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); and other federal agencies as appropriate. The task force would be directed to meet on an annual basis and submit a report to Congress detailing authorities, actions taken, and recommendations for additional criminal or civil authorities needed to address the public health threat of the illegal importation, distribution, and sale of e-cigarettes. The S.T.O.P. Illicit Vaping Act is endorsed by the following organizations: American Heart Association, American Lung Association, Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, American Cancer Society, and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Text of the S.T.O.P. Illicit Vaping Act can be found here. In 2023, Durbin’s office examined FDA’s public data files to identify e-cigarette manufacturers who have received both marketing denial orders and warning letters yet continue to sell unauthorized products, in order to assess FDA’s effectiveness in taking enforcement action against some of the most flagrantly defiant examples. Durbin’s office found at least 22 vaping products that appeared to be sold online by the manufacturer in violation of the law and in defiance of repeated enforcement actions by FDA. In addition to those products sold online by the manufacturer, several other such products remained available for purchase from third-party retailers, including one of the most popular e-cigarettes among children, Breeze Smoke. Durbin’s investigation also found that FDA had only issued “closeout letters” to 10 percent of the 685 tobacco warning letters it has issued since January 1, 2021. A closeout letter indicates that FDA has verified that corrective action has taken place to address the violations contained in the warning letter. Durbin has been a vocal leader in the fight against Big Tobacco, particularly since he lost his father to lung cancer when Durbin was 14. He went after Big Tobacco when he served in the House of Representatives and led the charge to ban smoking on airplanes, which eventually led to restaurants, office buildings, trains, and much more. Durbin has also led efforts to grant FDA jurisdiction over tobacco, raise tobacco taxes to prevent youth initiation, and enhance support for tobacco cessation tools. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-senate-floor-durbin-announces-criminal-referral-to-doj-regarding-trump-officials-unconstitutional-immigration-enforcement-activity,"On Senate Floor, Durbin Announces Criminal Referral To DOJ Regarding Trump Officials’ Unconstitutional Immigration Enforcement Activity",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Durbin: Today, I am putting those participating in “Operation Midway Blitz” on notice; you will be held accountable for unlawful actions WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, announced he, along with U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), have submitted a criminal referral to the Justice Department regarding the unlawful actions of senior Administration officials and federal immigration agents in “Operation Midway Blitz.” The Trump Administration repeatedly appears to have violated the constitutional rights of individuals in Illinois during “Operation Midway Blitz,” and the officials responsible for these violations are acting with impunity. Durbin said, “Earlier this year, the Trump Administration began a calculated show of political theater and force designed to spread fear and terror in Illinois communities. Masked federal agents pepper sprayed, punched, body slammed, and even shot individuals, including U.S. citizens, during violent immigration enforcement actions… They deployed tear gas canisters against clergy, broke into apartments, and zip-tied children.” Durbin continued, “President Trump has not gone after ‘the worst of the worst,’ as he promised—instead, he has brought some of the worst, most unprofessional, and most poorly trained federal law enforcement officers and agents into our city. Because of his so-called ‘Operation Midway Blitz,’ children are afraid to go to school, businesses are closing, and families are being torn apart. Yet the Trump Administration has shown no regret. They are reveling in the fear and chaos they have created. Just look at Border Patrol official Gregory Bovino.” On Tuesday, Bovino returned to Chicago after leaving last month to bring his campaign of fear to North Carolina and New Orleans. As soon as he arrived back in Chicago, Bovino went to the picket line of Local 705 Teamsters at Mauser Packaging Solutions. Durbin said, “Bovino brought federal agents to the line to intimidate and interrogate these workers. He laughed in their faces as they demanded better working conditions. In court testimony, Mr. Bovino has praised federal agents’ use of excessive force as ‘exemplary,’ even after multiple U.S. citizens were hospitalized following their encounters with his federal agents.” Durbin continued, “When addressing federal agents prior to a confrontation with peaceful protesters, Mr. Bovino stated ‘If someone strays into a pepper ball, then that’s on them.’ Bovino has teargassed peaceful crowds, encouraged his agents to fire pepper balls at protestors, and threatened to go ‘even harder on the streets,’ when federal judges dare to order him to follow the law. But Mr. Bovino is not alone in his cruelty. Many Trump Administration officials have been posting and gloating about these clear violations of individuals’ constitutional rights.” Under 18 U.S.C. § 242, it is a federal crime for any person acting “under color of any law, statute, ordinance, regulation, or custom” to “willfully subject[] any person . . . to the deprivation of any rights, privileges, or immunities secured or protected by the Constitution or laws of the United States.” Anyone who willfully violates another person’s Fourth Amendment rights by engaging in warrantless arrests or use of excessive force under color of law may be held liable under Section 242. If this Administration fails to pursue charges, the statute of limitations will permit the next Administration to prosecute officials who acted unlawfully. Durbin noted that while the Supreme Court’s decision in Trump v. United States may have immunized President Trump personally from prosecution, it provided no such protection for his lackeys. Durbin said, “The Trump Administration officials responsible for the use of excessive force or unlawful detentions may face criminal consequences for their role in ‘Midway Blitz.’ That is why today my colleague Senator Duckworth and I have submitted a criminal referral to the Justice Department regarding the unlawful actions of senior Administration officials and federal immigration agents in ‘Operation Midway Blitz.’” Durbin noted a Border Patrol agent shot a Chicago woman multiple times. Body-camera video reportedly shows the agent threatening the woman, prior to shooting her. Afterwards, he bragged in text messages to other agents about shooting the woman, writing, “5 shots, 7 holes.” Durbin said, “As Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I have directed my staff to continue gathering evidence of potential violations of Section 242, and we will provide this evidence to the Justice Department in due course.” In addition to Durbin’s and Duckworth’s actions, Illinois elected officials are hard at work documenting the crimes committed by federal agents. The Mayor of Evanston has opened an investigation after federal agents pinned down a man and struck him in the head. The Village of Broadview is conducting criminal investigations related to ICE’s use of tear gas and rubber bullets against first responders and peaceful protestors. Tomorrow, the Illinois Accountability Commission will hold its first public hearing, which will examine the widespread use of chemical agents during “Midway Blitz.” Durbin said, “There will come a time when the people responsible for the assaults, tear gassing, and unjust detention during these lawless immigration enforcement actions will face real accountability. These officials swore an oath when they began their service to preserve and protect the Constitution. But in their roles as federal law enforcement officials, there is ample evidence that they have violated the very rights they promised to defend.” Durbin concluded, “Today, I am putting those participating in ‘Operation Midway Blitz’ on notice. You can continue to terrorize people. You can ignore the rulings of our courts, our laws, and our Constitution. You can hide behind your masks. You can ignore the due process requirements of the Constitution. But the day will come when justice will be served. The day will come when you will be held accountable. The day will come when this pitiful display of meanness and intolerance will become one of the saddest chapters of our nation’s history. And you will be held accountable.” Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here. Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here. Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-judiciary-democrats-press-for-hearing-on-legality-of-trumps-extrajudicial-killings-in-caribbean-sea,Senate Judiciary Democrats Press For Hearing On Legality Of Trump’s Extrajudicial Killings In Caribbean Sea,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Durbin, SJC Dems to Grassley: “These strikes are extrajudicial killings and shocking violations of fundamental principles of due process and the right to life under U.S. and international law.” WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, led all Senate Judiciary Democrats in urging Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) to hold a hearing on the Trump Administration’s executions of alleged drug traffickers via military strikes on boats at sea, which have killed at least 95 people so far in 25 separate strikes. The Committee has jurisdiction over extrajudicial killings, murder, war crimes, and the Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Legal Counsel (OLC), which authored a classified memo providing cover for these killings. In a letter to Grassley, the Senators highlighted the shocking conduct by the Trump Administration, writing: “Since September, the Trump Administration has summarily executed at least 95 people in 25 known strikes on alleged drug smugglers in vessels at sea. This is not a time to mince words. These strikes are extrajudicial killings and shocking violations of fundamental principles of due process and the right to life under U.S. and international law. The Administration’s claims that the people it is killing are guilty of crimes, affiliated with a criminal or terrorist organization, or ‘combatants’ in a nonexistent armed conflict, do not render these extrajudicial killings any less unlawful. This Committee must address the serious concerns that these strikes may violate U.S. criminal laws, and that Department of Justice attorneys who gave President Trump and Secretary Hegseth legal cover to summarily execute suspected criminals have violated their ethical obligations.” The Senators then made their request, writing: “We respectfully request that you immediately convene a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing to ensure that those who authorized these extrajudicial killings are held to account.” The Senators denounced state-sanctioned extrajudicial killings, writing: “There is not, nor can there be, any justification for state-sanctioned extrajudicial killings. Summary executions have no place in a constitutional democracy operating under the rule of law, no matter how heinous the accusations a government makes against someone. Nor can governments fabricate an armed conflict or falsely label people ‘combatants’ to kill them.” U.S. officials and Members of Congress from both parties have long condemned extrajudicial killings, including of alleged drug traffickers, when committed by other nations, including then-Senator Marco Rubio in 2020 and 2024 and State Departments under both Republican and Democratic Presidents. The Senators condemned the Trump Administration’s weak approach to drug trafficking, including pardoning two drug kingpins, writing: “Make no mistake, drug trafficking is a terrible crime. And it must be addressed with robust, effective, and lawful measures, including interdicting vessels transporting such drugs, prosecuting violators to the full extent of the law, and supporting the needs of impacted families and communities. Instead of intensifying such efforts, President Trump has weakened them.” Since President Trump returned to office, his Administration has diverted thousands of agents from critical drug enforcement missions, shuttered a critical task force, terminated hundreds of grants for state and local law enforcement, and slashed drug trafficking programs, which all has culminated in the lowest level of federal drug prosecutions in decades. The Senators concluded by reiterating their request for a hearing, writing: “The American people want real solutions to crime and the drug epidemic—not extrajudicial killings committed in their name. In accordance with the Committee’s oversight responsibilities, I urge you to schedule an immediate hearing on this outrage.” In addition to Durbin, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Chris Coons (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Adam Schiff (D-CA). For a PDF of the letter to Chairman Grassley, click here. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/casten-demands-bls-ensure-high-quality-non-partisan-economic-data,"Casten Demands BLS Ensure High-Quality, Non-Partisan Economic Data",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) led 23 House Democrats in a letter to Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer and Acting Commissioner of the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) William Wiatrowski, criticizing President Trump’s politically-motivated attacks on government statistics and urging BLS to protect the credibility, quality, and independence of U.S. economic data. “We are concerned that recent developments, in addition to persistent data collection challenges and budgetary shortfalls, could affect access to information critical for understanding and responding to this Administration’s failed economic policies,” the lawmakers wrote. “BLS, an independent agency within the U.S. Department of Labor, plays an important role by publishing statistics that provide a complete and factual picture of the rapidly changing U.S. economy. Congress, the Executive Branch, and the Federal Reserve (Fed) all rely on timely, accurate, and granular economic data to make informed decisions that impact every corner of the country.” The Trump Administration has taken multiple steps to cast doubt on the jobs and inflation data released by BLS, including by firing BLS Commissioner Erika McEntarfer over the release of weak job numbers that were reflective of the harmful impact of the Administration’s tariff and immigration policies. Furthermore, due to the government shutdown, certain information will be permanently missing from the October 2025 Jobs Report, presenting a partial blind spot for policymakers, the private sector, and the general public on the state of the U.S. economy. The lawmakers further urged BLS to work to improve the quality of its data. “BLS can take steps to modernize its existing systems and data collection practices…BLS can invest in innovation, incorporate digitized information into its statistical programs, and consider the use of large language models (LLMs) to make it easier for people to report their industries, occupations, and activities,” the lawmakers continued. “We urge the Administration to grant BLS leadership flexibility to spend congressionally-appropriated funds in ways that prioritize these upgrades, partnerships, and its ability to hire, retain, and train talent.” In addition to Rep Casten, the letter was signed by Reps. Joyce Beatty, Janelle Bynum, Emanuel Cleaver, Cleo Fields, Bill Foster, Sylvia Garcia, Vicente Gonzalez, Josh Gottheimer, Al Green, Jim Himes, Sam Liccardo, Stephen Lynch, Dave Min, Gregory Meeks, Brittany Pettersen, Ayanna Pressley, David Scott, Brad Sherman, Rashida Tlaib, Ritchie Torres, Juan Vargas, Nydia Velázquez, and Nikema Williams. A copy of the letter can be found here. Text of the letter can be found below. Dear Secretary Chavez-DeRemer and Acting Commissioner Wiatrowski: We write to seek information about the quality and quantity of core economic data prepared by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which could be at risk following the longest government shutdown in U.S. history and given President Trump’s unfounded attacks on the integrity of federal statistical agencies. We are concerned that recent developments, in addition to persistent data collection challenges and budgetary shortfalls, could affect access to information critical for understanding and responding to this Administration’s failed economic policies. BLS, an independent agency within the U.S. Department of Labor, plays an important role by publishing statistics that provide a complete and factual picture of the rapidly changing U.S. economy. Congress, the Executive Branch, and the Federal Reserve (Fed) all rely on timely, accurate, and granular economic data to make informed decisions that impact every corner of the country. Specifically, the Fed utilizes BLS data daily to monitor inflation measures, examine job growth trends, and analyze the U.S. economy. The Fed leans on this data when setting interest rates and taking other actions consistent with its dual mandate. In addition, the private sector relies on BLS data to make investment, hiring, and pay decisions and as a benchmark for their own data. Lastly, in order to maintain a robust U.S. Treasury market and the U.S. dollar as the world’s primary reserve currency, it is essential that the rest of the world views U.S. economic statistics as intellectually robust and free from political influence. Due to disruptions from the Republican-manufactured government shutdown, BLS confirmed that it will not publish the unemployment rate for October, marking the first omission in 77 years. This data gap leaves policymakers, businesses, homeowners, and the general public in the dark on the current state of the labor market and broader economy. Furthermore, the level of participation in BLS’ voluntary surveys has declined in recent years, partly due to difficulties reaching people and businesses via phone or in-person visits to collect this data. For example, response rates for BLS’ employment establishment survey, which collects data from businesses and is a key component of the agency’s monthly jobs report, averaged around 60% between 2009 and 2019, but have since declined to less than 45%. Furthermore, response rates for two BLS surveys of retail businesses and households, which form the basis for calculating the Consumer Price Index (CPI), a key indicator of inflation for consumer prices, have dropped significantly since 2014. Some have also attributed declining survey rates to an eroding trust in institutions and government. President Trump’s baseless removal of Commissioner Erika McEntarfer further threatens to undermine the credibility of federal economic statistics, according to two former BLS commissioners appointed by presidents of both parties. More broadly, this trend means that incoming data may have become less accurate and subject to larger revisions, which can make it more difficult for policymakers to assess current economic conditions, according to Fed researchers. Under this Administration, declining response rates, increased data collection costs, and budget concerns have forced difficult decisions regarding survey sample sizes and the metrics that are gathered. In May, BLS announced that it will stop calculating and publishing 350 indexes, including those related to specific industries, that contribute to the Producer Price Index (PPI), a key indicator of inflation for producers of consumer goods. Then, in July, BLS announced that it had stopped gathering CPI data in three metro areas and reduced the sample size by 15% in the 72 other surveyed areas because current resources are insufficient. We are concerned that BLS is losing granularity in its inflation measures, which could make it more difficult to assess tariff-driven price increases across the country. To address these issues, BLS can take steps to modernize its existing systems and data collection practices. For example, the Census Bureau, in collaboration with BLS, is currently testing the use of online self-response data collection for the Current Population Survey (CPS), which serves as the primary source of labor statistics. BLS can also directly focus on hard-to-reach cases in its surveys, which could help improve response rates and reduce bias. In addition, BLS can invest in innovation, incorporate digitized information into its statistical programs, and consider the use of large language models (LLMs) to make it easier for people to report their industries, occupations, and activities. Lastly, a bipartisan group of around 90 economists have suggested that BLS deepen its partnerships with the private sector and evaluate how private sector and administrative data can complement public statistics, while still preserving data integrity and privacy. We urge the Administration to grant BLS leadership flexibility to spend congressionally-appropriated funds in ways that prioritize these upgrades, partnerships, and its ability to hire, retain, and train talent. We recognize the importance of ensuring the nonpartisan integrity of BLS. We have the shared goal of ensuring that U.S. economic data is accurate, credible, and—like the U.S. economy itself—remains the best in the world. To that end, we request that you respond to the following questions by no later than January 6, 2026. When will the BLS publish the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for October? Due to President Trump’s attacks, BLS has lost 12 of its 35 senior leaders in recent months. How does the Labor Department plan to address this loss of critical expertise and institutional knowledge? At current budgetary levels, does BLS expect to scale back any existing programs over the next few months? Are any BLS programs being considered for elimination? If so, please list the affected programs. Please provide an update on the timeline for the modernization of the Current Population Survey (CPS). Has BLS experienced any challenges in implementing these efforts? Is BLS considering increasing or expanding existing programs by blending survey data with administrative data, including by leveraging information-sharing agreements with other state or federal agencies? Are there any statutory limitations to improving coordination with other federal agencies, such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)? In 2022, BLS replaced the collection of new-vehicle prices with transaction data from private sector sources, though it took two years for staff to ensure it provided a reliable measure and to implement the change. Is BLS considering the use of private sector data for any other metrics? If so, please provide information related to the specific BLS programs that would use these private sector data. How is BLS ensuring that BLS products remain accurate and nationally representative after incorporating private sector data? Are there limitations on how economic data available from private sources can be adapted by BLS? Is BLS taking steps to leverage automation and digitalization technologies to potentially improve how economic data are produced and shared? Thank you for your attention to this important matter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://davis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-danny-k-davis-condemns-antisemitic-attack-australia-and-violence,CONGRESSMAN DANNY K. DAVIS CONDEMNS ANTISEMITIC ATTACK IN AUSTRALIA AND VIOLENCE AT BROWN UNIVERSITY,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Danny K. Davis,D000096,davis.house.gov,davis,https://davis.house.gov/media,scraper,"D.C. — Congressman Danny K. Davis (D-IL) today issued a strong condemnation following the horrific antisemitic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, and the tragic shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. The attack in Australia, which occurred during a Hanukkah celebration, resulted in the loss of at least 15 lives and left dozens more injured.1Hours earlier, a separate mass shooting at Brown University shook the academic community, highlighting the ongoing crisis of gun violence in our educational institutions. “I am deeply saddened and outraged by the senseless violence that occurred this past weekend,” said Congressman Davis. “The targeting of Jewish families in Australia as they gathered to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah is a chilling reminder of the persistent and dangerous threat of antisemitism worldwide. Hatred and bigotry have no place in a global society, and we must stand united against those who seek to divide us through terror.” Congressman Davis, a lifelong champion of civil rights and human dignity, emphasized that these events underscore a disturbing rise in hate-based violence. “My heart goes out to the victims, their families, and the students at Brown University who have been forced to endure the trauma of gun violence. Whether it is in our houses of worship, on our beaches, or on our college campuses, no one should have to live in fear. I join my colleagues and people of conscience everywhere in rejecting antisemitism, racism, and all forms of intolerance. We must double our efforts to protect the vulnerable and hold those who perpetrate such acts accountable.” Congressman Davis remains committed to legislative efforts that strengthen civil rights protections and address the root causes of violence both at home and abroad. He calls for a thorough investigation into these incidents and urges continued international cooperation to combat the scourge of hate. About Congressman Danny K. Davis Congressman Danny K. Davis represents the 7th Congressional District of Illinois and is a senior member of the House Committee on Ways and Means. He has long been recognized as a national leader in welfare policy, civil rights, and social justice.",1,2026-05-01T06:06:26Z,2026-05-01T06:08:22Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-demands-answers-cabinet-secretaries-dhs-actions,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Demands Answers from Cabinet Secretaries on DHS Actions Targeting Striking Workers in Chicago,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) today sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Department of Labor Secretary Lori M. Chavez-DeRemer raising concerns about federal law enforcement conduct toward workers engaged in lawful strike activity in Chicago. In the letter, Congressman Krishnamoorthi cites video footage from December 16 showing uniformed officers interacting with striking workers in a manner that he warns may constitute unlawful interference with activity protected under federal labor law and the U.S. Constitution. “Video footage recorded by members of the public shows Commander Bovino and uniformed law enforcement officers surrounding striking workers, laughing at them, and engaging in conduct that appears intended to intimidate and chill protected activity, all while the workers were engaged in lawful strike actions safeguarded by the U.S. Constitution and federal labor law,"" Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote. ""Federal courts, state courts, and federal agencies have long and consistently held that core labor protections, including the right to organize, to engage in concerted activity, and to be free from retaliation, apply to all workers, regardless of immigration status. Federal law enforcement officials have no lawful basis to interfere with workers’ rights to organize or to collectively bargain.” The letter also cautions against the use, or perceived use, of immigration enforcement during labor disputes. ""The use, or perceived use, of immigration enforcement as leverage during a labor dispute is fundamentally incompatible with federal labor policy and corrodes trust in both labor and immigration institutions,"" Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote in the letter. Congressman Krishnamoorthi requests that the Department of Labor promptly review the incident and, where appropriate, coordinate with or refer the matter to the National Labor Relations Board, and examine whether Mauser or any entity acting on its behalf coordinated with immigration enforcement officials in connection with the intimidation of Teamsters Local 705 workers. He concludes by requesting a prompt response detailing what steps the Departments are taking to investigate the matter and to ensure that federal law enforcement is never used, explicitly or implicitly, to suppress lawful labor activity.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-statement-all-25-jewish-house-members-antisemitic-attack-australia,BIPARTISAN STATEMENT FROM ALL 25 JEWISH HOUSE MEMBERS ON ANTISEMITIC ATTACK IN AUSTRALIA,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"All 25 Jewish Members of the US House of Representatives released the following statement in response to an attack on Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia that targeted Jewish people celebrating the first night of Hanukkah: “On a night meant for celebration, Jewish families in Australia, gathering in joy and peace on the first night of Hanukkah, were grotesquely targeted with hate and murderous intent. Sadly, this attack does not come as a surprise to the Jewish community of Sydney who have been raising a clarion call for local and national authorities to take concrete steps against a rising tide of antisemitism. “We stand in solidarity with the Australian Jewish community and together extend our condolences to the family and friends of the people murdered and are praying for the complete recovery of the dozens wounded, and the entire Jewish community feeling besieged. “Antisemitism is a cancer that eats at the core of society, whether in Australia, the United States, or anywhere it is allowed to take root and grow. We join leaders around the globe in condemning this evil act and in calling for justice, peace, and unwavering support for those affected. We also call on all leaders to do better standing up to antisemitism, bigotry, and hate. We must also do better in our work for a world where everyone can celebrate their faith and traditions free from discrimination and fear. “Jews around the world will continue to gather this week to celebrate Hanukkah and its story of religious freedom and defiant optimism. As we light the menorah each night and remember the miracle of the festival of lights, let us proclaim that light is stronger than darkness, right is stronger than might, and justice is stronger than tyranny. Wishing all Jewish communities and the world around us strength and peace.” The 25 members who signed the statement include: Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) Rep. Becca Balint (D-VT) Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN) Rep. Randy Fine (R-FL) Rep. Lois Frankel (D-FL) Rep. Laura Friedman (D-CA) Rep. Craig Goldman (R-TX) Rep. Daniel Goldman (D-NY) Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA) Rep. David Kustoff (R-TN) Rep. Greg Landsman (D-OH) Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA) Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-RI) Rep. Max Miller (R-OH) Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) Rep. Brad Schneider (D-IL) Rep. Kim Schrier (D-WA) Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA) Rep. Eugene Vindman (D-VA) Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/amid-trumps-escalating-misuse-of-our-military-against-americans-duckworth-votes-to-block-final-passage-of-defense-authorization-bill-for-the-first-time-in-her-career,"Amid Trump’s Escalating Misuse of Our Military Against Americans, Duckworth Votes to Block Final Passage of Defense Authorization Bill for the First Time in Her Career",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Citing her deep concern over Donald Trump’s continuing—and escalating—abuse of our nation’s nonpartisan military and servicemembers by unconstitutionally deploying them into American cities including Chicago to intimidate Americans in their own communities, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today voted against the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the first time in her career. Duckworth has supported every NDAA since she was first elected to Congress in 2012. “Each year, I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to forge a bipartisan Defense Authorization bill that supports our military and protects our national security. This year’s NDAA, however, authorizes DoD funding that Donald Trump has misused—and that he continues misusing—to deploy our troops into American cities in an effort that neither protects our national security nor makes our communities safer. And it is because I love our military so much, and respect our troops so deeply, that I had no choice but to vote against this authorization. “The power to deploy troops domestically must remain exceptional, accountable and rooted in law—not in one man’s judgment about what constitutes disorder.?I will never vote to enable a wannabe tinpot dictator to use the authorities or money Congress allocates to our Armed Forces in an un-American campaign—especially when that campaign abuses our servicemembers and disrespects their sacrifices by ordering them to intimidate Americans in their own communities rather than defend our nation against its adversaries.” -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-pushes-for-long-term-funding-certainty-for-air-traffic-control-system-modernization-project-and-calls-on-faa-to-invest-in-both-technology-and-training,Duckworth Pushes for Long-Term Funding Certainty for Air Traffic Control System Modernization Project and Calls on FAA to Invest in Both Technology and Training,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – At today’s U.S. Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee (CST) Aviation Subcommittee hearing, Ranking Member Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) reiterated the urgent need to modernize our nation’s air traffic control system, expressing support for providing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with an additional $20 billion to ensure long-term funding certainty, while calling on the FAA to prioritize phase one investments on the systems and infrastructure that is guaranteed to deliver long-term value. Video of the Senator’s opening remarks are available on her YouTube. “If we want any chance of success at ATC modernization, we simply cannot afford to deny FAA the certainty of long-term funding—$12.5 billion is a meaningful downpayment, but it’s not nearly enough,” said Duckworth. “Over the past several decades, the FAA has neglected the capabilities and capacity of the ATC system’s most important asset—its people. The bottom line is that successfully building a ‘Brand New’ ATC system will require rebuilding a depleted and demoralized workforce.” In addition to upgrading radars and replacing telecom equipment, Duckworth urged FAA Administrator Brian Bedford to invest a portion of the modernization project’s existing $12.5 billion downpayment toward enhancing the FAA’s workforce infrastructure to enhance its capabilities and capacity to hire, train and retain more desperately needed air traffic controllers and FAA technicians. Specifically, Duckworth expressed support for the FAA using modernization funds to procure ATC training equipment to entice far more academic institutions to join the FAA’s Enhanced Collegiate Training Initiative and pushed Administrator Bedford to invest in additional FAA Academies in population centers across the country. Duckworth also stressed her concerns over the FAA’s self-imposed 2028 deadline to complete the latest massive ATC modernization project, and she pressed FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford on how he plans to ensure standards aren’t compromised for the sake of speed—especially after Donald Trump slashed the FAA workforce in his indiscriminate mass firings. Video of the Senator’s questioning are available on her YouTube. “I am concerned by the focus on meeting an arbitrary, unrealistic three-year timeline,” continued Duckworth. “Without stringent oversight, such an environment is at high risk for less stringent quality control, malfunctioning systems and inadequate time to train controllers on new technology. We cannot afford to cut corners when it comes to our aviation system. The American people need us to be sure we have worked out issues before we entrust their lives to any new system or technologies.” Duckworth has long been a leading voice in the push to strengthen our air traffic control system and workforce. Earlier this month, after the Trump Administration cruelly provided only four percent of the ATC and technician workforce with $10,000 bonuses—despite all of them working without pay during the Republican-led government shutdown—Duckworth demanded Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to award those bonuses to every single ATC and technician. For years, Duckworth has been sounding the alarm that we must make critical aviation safety investments immediately to prevent all-too-often near-misses from becoming catastrophic tragedies. Last Congress, Duckworth chaired two CST Aviation Subcommittee hearings—one last December and the other a year prior—to address our aviation industry’s chilling surge in near-deadly close calls and underscore the urgent need to improve air traffic control systems to protect the flying public. Last year, Duckworth helped author the landmark bipartisan FAA reauthorization that was signed into law to extend the FAA’s funding and authorities through Fiscal Year 2028. The reauthorization included several of her provisions to safeguard the 1,500-hour rule, improve consumer safety, expand the aviation workforce and enhance protections for travelers with disabilities. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-highlights-the-senates-responsibility-to-hold-the-executive-branch-accountable-amid-president-trumps-abuses-of-powers,Durbin Highlights The Senate’s Responsibility To Hold The Executive Branch Accountable Amid President Trump’s Abuses Of Powers,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"During Durbin’s opening statement in a Senate Judiciary Committee nominations hearing, he also condemned President Trump’s attempts to undermine the Senate blue slip tradition WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today delivered an opening statement at a Senate Judiciary Committee nominations hearing highlighted the Senate’s responsibility to provide advice and consent on presidential nominees; called out President Trump’s cruel immigration tactics, as well as his unlawful and un-American actions; and commented on the longstanding bipartisan Senate tradition, the blue slip. Durbin also condemned Secretary Hegseth’s refusal during a classified briefing yesterday to share with all Senators the full, unedited video of the September 2nd lethal strikes on an alleged drug boat that killed two survivors. Today’s hearing is on the nominations of Daniel Edward Burrows, to be Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Legal Policy (OLP); Megan Blair Benton, to the U.S District Court for the Western District of Missouri; Brian Charles Lea, to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee; and Justin Ross Olson, to the U.S District Court for the Southern District of Indiana. Key Quotes: “The Senate, as part of the legislative branch, must provide advice and consent on presidential nominees. It is a responsibility that goes back to our nation’s founding…To ensure the president could not become a despot like King George III, our Founders designed a system of checks and balances [that] separated the federal government’s powers among its three branches.” “The Senate’s role in providing advice and consent on presidential nominees is one critical check on the executive branch. Today’s hearing is a step in that process. And it has never been more important that the Senate exercise this role—because the President is determined to push the bounds of his power at every opportunity.” “Across the country, immigration agents are racially profiling and arresting American citizens—even veterans. At a spotlight forum last week, I spoke about how one Chicagoan—a U.S. citizen on her way to work—was physically assaulted, arrested, and detained for several hours after ICE agents crashed into her car and pointed their weapons at her… [This] is not conduct that we can or should tolerate in the United States.” “But the Trump Administration’s unlawful and un-American actions are not limited to our own shores or our fellow citizens. The President has ordered extrajudicial killings of at least 95 people off the coast of Venezuela. Yesterday, our self-styled ‘Secretary of War’ essentially told Senators to ‘go to hell’ when we asked to see videos of the episode where two stranded victims may have been executed in violation of international, legal standards.” “The Trump Administration alleges that these individuals are ‘narco-terrorists.’ Drug trafficking is a serious crime and should be prosecuted. But that is not what is happening here. Instead, President Trump is engaging in the summary executions of criminal suspects. That is a violation of law—in both peacetime and wartime.” “Today’s hearing is part of our effort to fulfill our obligation. But we must also conduct oversight and hold accountable a President who too often ignores the limits of power… We are now about to finish this calendar year with the Department of Homeland Security spurning every effort made to bring and hold her [Secretary Noem] accountable for what’s happening [in regard to immigration raids across the country].” “In closing, I want to note that multiple nominees on today’s panel are here because of this Committee’s longstanding, bipartisan tradition of requiring blue slips from Senators supporting district court nominees from their states.” “Just this week, the President falsely claimed, ‘if you have one Democrat in a state, it is not possible to appoint because of blue slips.’ In fact, this year the Committee has reported—and the Senate has confirmed—numerous judicial and U.S. Attorney nominees from blue states with the support of Democratic Senators.” “[Blue slips] simply require that President Trump do what every other President before him has done—work with home-state Senators to identify well-qualified nominees who will follow the law. Blue slips remain a critical part of this body’s advice and consent [responsibility] even when they frustrate the party in power. I want to thank Chairman Grassley for continuing to follow this practice.” Video of Durbin’s opening statement is available here. Audio of Durbin’s opening statement is available here. Footage of Durbin’s opening statement is available here for TV Stations. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-secures-key-provisions-to-support-rock-island-arsenal-defense-manufacturing-in-illinois-in-national-defense-authorization-act,"Durbin Secures Key Provisions To Support Rock Island Arsenal, Defense Manufacturing In Illinois In National Defense Authorization Act",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The FY26 NDAA, which passed the Senate today and now heads to the President’s desk, includes a number of Durbin-led measures & authorizations for military construction projects in Illinois WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, today highlighted the critical provisions he secured in the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was passed by the Senate today and now heads to the President’s desk for signature. The bill includes significant support for Rock Island Arsenal, provides security aid to Ukraine, and authorizes $113 million in military construction funds for Illinois. “The NDAA is a strong, bipartisan show of support for our national defense and to our men and women in uniform. The bill, which has earned the support of both chambers of Congress, includes my provisions to ensure that Rock Island Arsenal remains central to our nation’s effort to modernize the military and strengthens security cooperation with our allies around the world,” said Durbin. Durbin-led measures included in the FY26 NDAA are: Rock Island Arsenal: Authorizes a new pilot program modeled after Durbin’s Arsenal Workload Sustainment Act to give contracting preference to public-private partnerships between industry and Army arsenals such as at Rock Island. This provision will help ensure Rock Island Arsenal remains active and viable while preserving the skilled workforce, equipment, and production capacity critical to the nation’s defense industrial base. Restricts the Army from using any funds allocated for restructuring until the Army provides more information about its proposed plan to integrate Joint Munitions Command and Army Sustainment Command, helping to ensure operations and protect jobs at Rock Island Arsenal from unnecessary cuts. Authorizes the Army to expand robotic munitions manufacturing capabilities at government-owned, contractor-operated facilities, which will help boost workload for facilities such as the Quad City Cartridge Case Facility. Oversight Requires the Department of Defense (DoD) to notify Congress on immigration enforcement support to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to include the use of military aircraft for deportation flights, the use of DoD bases for detention, and other support to improve congressional and public oversight amid the Trump Administration’s increased use of the military for immigration operations. Enhances oversight of the use of service members to support domestic law enforcement, including increased legal training for all service members on rules of engagement and appropriate public identification of service members providing support on U.S. soil. Requires a congressional notification if the President removes a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from office or transfers them to another position before the end of their term to enhance oversight of the Trump Administration’s actions. Limits funding for the consolidation of geographic combatant commands to enhance oversight of the Trump Administration’s actions. PFAS Requires DoD to develop a plan to procure chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear personnel protective garments free from toxic PFAS chemicals. Government Contracts Supports APEX Accelerators, including in Illinois, which help small businesses be more competitive for DoD and other government contracts. Foreign Relations Codifies Durbin’s Baltic Security Initiative, particularly timely amid reports that the Pentagon was seeking to eliminate such security assistance programs. Durbin created this program in Fiscal Year 2021 to strengthen U.S. security cooperation with the Baltics amid an increase of Russian hybrid attacks in the Baltics and across Europe, and Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. Condemns Russia’s illegal abduction of Ukrainian children. Prohibits funds to recognize sovereign Ukrainian territory forcibly seized by Russia. Extends and increases the authorization for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative from $300 million to $400 million and authorizes continued intelligence sharing for Ukraine. Prohibits the reduction of U.S. Armed Forces stationed and equipment in Europe, over concerns that President Trump may remove U.S. troops from Germany, Poland, or the Baltics. Strengthens the trilateral AUKUS security pact. Quantum Accelerates quantum research efforts across the Department of Defense, which will support work at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park in Chicago. Veterans’ Health Reauthorizes for another year the Treasury account to provide for the operations of the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago. Impact Aid Authorizes $80 million for Impact Aid programs to provide financial assistance to school districts that support military families in compensation for the lost local tax base imposed upon by a neighboring military installation. Military Construction Authorizes Military Construction funds for the following projects in Illinois: $50 million for construction of a new Child Development Center at Rock Island Arsenal; $5 million in planning and design funds to house the expanding forging capability at the Rock Island Arsenal-Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center; $5 million in planning and design funds for the General Richard L. Jones National Guard Readiness Center in Chicago for the Army Guard; $3.05 million in planning and design funds for an operations and maintenance facility in Marseilles for the Army Guard; $8 million in planning and design funds for a new Readiness Center in Peoria for the Army Guard; $6 million in planning and design funds for a new aircraft hangar at Scott Air Force Base for the Air Guard; and $36 million in maintenance support at Fort Sheridan. Law Enforcement and Survivor Support Includes four bills that were unanimously reported out of the Senate Judiciary Committee during National Police Week in May: The PROTECT Our Children Act of 2008 Reauthorization, which reauthorizes and modernizes the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program; The Improving Police CARE Act, which establishes baseline standards for trauma kits purchased using grant funding under the Byrne JAG program; The Chief Herbert D. Proffit Act of 2025, which expands Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program eligibility criteria; and The Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act, which expands access to federal support through the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program for first responders and their families. Supreme Court Security Authorizes the Marshal of the Supreme Court and the Supreme Court Police to protect retired or former Supreme Court justices and their immediate families if they determine there is a need. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-jack-smiths-closed-door-house-testimony,Durbin Statement On Jack Smith’s Closed Door House Testimony,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement on Jack Smith’s closed-door testimony to the House Judiciary Committee today: “If Senate Republicans and the Attorney General are truly committed to transparency, they’ll allow Jack Smith to testify publicly under oath, as he’s offered. They also must release the unredacted Volume II of his report and any materials not already produced related to Volumes I and II. But they refuse. “Mr. Smith is the only person with direct knowledge of decisions and actions taken under his leadership as Special Counsel. If Republicans have so many questions, a transparent means of answering is necessary. Anything less than public testimony under oath is unacceptable.” On October 30, Durbin and Senate Judiciary Democrats called on Chairman Grassley to allow Former Special Counsel Jack Smith to testify publicly before the Committee. In their letter, the Senators also urged Grassley to request the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) release Volume II of the unredacted “Final Report of the Special Counsel’s Investigations and Prosecutions,” which was submitted to then-Attorney General (AG) Merrick Garland in January 2025. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://jonathanjackson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-jackson-urges-gop-leadership-and-secretary-rubioto-halt-trumps,CONGRESSMAN JACKSON URGES GOP LEADERSHIP AND SECRETARY RUBIOTO HALT TRUMP’S RECKLESS “EPSTEIN WAR” AGAINST VENEZUELA,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Jonathan L. Jackson,J000309,jonathanjackson.house.gov,jonathanjackson,https://jonathanjackson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – With President Trump set to deliver a 9 p.m. address and new Epstein files exposing elite networks of corruption scheduled for release this week, Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01) is calling on House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio to prevent any unauthorized U.S. military action against Venezuela. Jackson, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, attended Secretary Rubio’s confidential closed-door briefing this week. He expressed deep disappointment with Rubio’s lack of candor and specificity, saying the Secretary “failed to identify any imminent threat to U.S. personnel or assets that could justify armed action” and “dodged basic constitutional questions about authority, targeting, and legality.” Jackson warned that Trump’s escalating “narco-terrorism” rhetoric, reported lethal double-tap strikes in the Caribbean, and threats of a full blockade constitute a dangerous and unconstitutional diversion meant to distract from mounting revelations connected to Jeffrey Epstein’s criminal network, not a legitimate national security effort. Jackson’s Urgent Demands Speaker Johnson and Leader Thune: Publicly commit to no new funding and no Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) for operations in Venezuela. Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution vests war powers in Congress, and existing 2001 and 2002 AUMFs cover neither Venezuela nor any “narco-terror” claims in the Caribbean. Congress must enforce the War Powers Resolution’s 60-day limit and block any attempt to bypass a formal vote through an “emergency” supplemental. Secretary Rubio: Certify to Congress today that no blockades or strikes have been authorized against Venezuelan state assets. Release full intelligence on the 80-plus people reportedly killed in recent Caribbean strikes, including target verification, rules of engagement, and civilian casualty assessments. The Pentagon’s own admission of a September “double-tap” strike killing 11 survivors raises serious concerns of potential violations under the Geneva Conventions. Jackson further called on Trump to directly address the Epstein files and cease using foreign military action to deflect public scrutiny: “The timing is unmistakable. As documents surface exposing elite complicity in Epstein’s crimes, the administration launches boat strikes and war rhetoric in Latin America. This is not policy , it’s a panic-induced distraction,” Jackson said. He emphasized that Congress must not allow another executive overreach or “pardons-for-politics” cycle, pointing to reports that the administration has traded clemency for donor favors and political loyalty. “Donald Trump shut down the government to obstruct the release of the Epstein files, branded them a “hoax,” and pressured members of Congress to prevent a vote on the discharge petition. Now he is saber-rattling toward Venezuela. How many people are expected to die to protect powerful pedophiles from justice?” Diplomatic Solutions, Not Distractions “Mike Johnson, John Thune, Marco Rubio , history will not absolve your silence,” Jackson added. “Don’t let this President turn the Caribbean into a battlefield to shield the powerful. If you believe in the Constitution, bring this to Congress before another life is lost.” ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:31:39Z https://bost.house.gov/2025/12/illinois-congressional-republicans-urge-no-pardon-for-madigan,ILLINOIS CONGRESSIONAL REPUBLICANS URGE NO PARDON FOR MADIGAN,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Illinois’ U.S. House Republican delegation urged President Trump in a letter today to reject former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s request for a presidential pardon. U.S. Reps. Mike Bost (IL-12), Darin LaHood (IL-16), and Mary Miller (IL-15) expressed concerns that granting Madigan clemency following his sentencing to seven and a half years in prison for conspiracy, wire fraud, and bribery would undermine accountability and public trust. “We write with a unified message as Republican Members of the United States House of Representatives for the State of Illinois to express our concerns regarding a request for a presidential pardon from former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan,” the members said. “Illinois families and taxpayers have suffered for decades under entrenched corruption, and a pardon in this case would send a dangerous message that public officials can betray the public trust with impunity. “The bribery and corruption scheme involved the misuse of state resources, including directing public utility contracts and payments to benefit private political allies. This was a deliberate, long-running pattern of abuse of public office. “Granting clemency in this case would not only reward a lifetime of unethical behavior but also embolden other public officials to exploit their offices for personal gain. For these reasons, we respectfully urge you to deny any request for a presidential pardon from Michael Madigan. Denying his request is the best way to ensure Illinois residents know their leaders are held to the highest standards of integrity.” The full letter to President Trump is available here. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-garcia-s-statement-condemning-return-of-masked-agents-and-holiday-time-enforcement,Congressman García’s Statement Condemning Return of Masked Agents and Holiday Time Enforcement,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García issued the following statement about a new wave of federal agents arriving to Chicago: “My office and I are aware that a large group of masked federal agents arrived in our city, once again terrorizing our community. “At a time when families should be celebrating the holidays in safety and peace, these agents are instead carrying out operations to separate families, sow panic, and intimidate hardworking people. Investigative reporting has made it clear that these ICE raids are targeting individuals with no criminal records. “These operations are a choice. Masked agents, unannounced raids, and holiday timing are tactics designed to maximize fear. My office will continue to confront these practices and take every step necessary to protect our constituents and hold federal agencies and their leaders accountable.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/declaracion-del-congresista-garcia-condenando-el-regreso-de-agentes-enmascarados-y-las-redadas-durante-las-fiestas-navidenas,Declaración del Congresista García Condenando el Regreso de Agentes Enmascarados y las Redadas durante las Fiestas Navideñas,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – El Congresista Jesús “Chuy” García emitió la siguiente declaración sobre la llegada de una nueva oleada de agentes federales a Chicago: “Mi oficina y yo estamos al tanto de que un numeroso grupo de agentes federales enmascarados ha llegado a nuestra ciudad, aterrorizando una vez más a nuestra comunidad. “En un momento en que las familias deberían estar celebrando las fiestas con seguridad y tranquilidad, estos agentes están llevando a cabo operaciones para separar familias, sembrar el pánico e intimidar a personas trabajadoras. Las investigaciones periodísticas han dejado claro que estas redadas de ICE están enfocadas en personas sin antecedentes penales. “Estas operaciones son una decisión deliberada. Los agentes enmascarados, las redadas sin previo aviso y el hecho de que se realicen durante las fiestas navideñas son tácticas diseñadas para maximizar el miedo. Mi oficina continuará enfrentando estas prácticas y tomará todas las medidas necesarias para proteger a nuestros vecinos y exigir responsabilidades a las agencias federales y a sus líderes.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/foster-introduces-payer-state-transparency-act,Foster Introduces Payer State Transparency Act,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC — Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) reintroduced the Payer State Transparency Act to help shed light on the “Payer State” problem, wherein certain states, including Illinois, pay more in federal taxes than they get back in federal spending. According to data from the Internal Revenue Service and USASpending.gov, Illinois sent $63 billion more in taxes in FY 2024 to the federal government than we received back. The Payer State Transparency Act would require the Office of Management and Budget, in conjunction with the Council of Economic Advisors and the Treasury Department, to produce annual assessments of the net economic effect of all federal spending programs on each state and compare these figures against the state’s tax burden. “As a businessman who co-founded a manufacturing company, I understand the financial burden that federal Payer State policies put on companies that are committed to keeping good jobs in Illinois,” said Foster. “I also recognize the burden the Payer State problem places on middle-class families here in Illinois, taking our hard-earned tax dollars without giving us the same level of federal support in return. That’s why I’ve introduced legislation to help us gain a better understanding of the problem and find ways to make sure Illinois taxpayers are getting their fair share of federal resources.” This legislation is cosponsored by Reps. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), and Jesús ‘Chuy’ García (D-IL). A copy of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://jonathanjackson.house.gov/media/press-releases/jackson-blasts-removal-wwii-memorials-honoring-black-veterans-backs-cleaver,"Jackson Blasts Removal of WWII Memorials Honoring Black Veterans, Backs Cleaver-Led Push to Restore Displays",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Jonathan L. Jackson,J000309,jonathanjackson.house.gov,jonathanjackson,https://jonathanjackson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CHICAGO, IL; Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01) issued the following statement in response to reports that the Trump administration quietly directed the removal of memorial panels honoring African American soldiers at the Netherlands American Cemetery in Margraten, following pressure from right-wing activists: “It is unconscionable that any administration; American or otherwise; would seek to erase the sacrifice of Black soldiers who fought, bled, and died to defend democracy around the world. These men helped defeat fascism abroad while enduring segregation and discrimination at home. To strip their memory from sacred ground is not only disrespectful; it is historical vandalism.” The removed displays, dedicated in 2024 at the cemetery where more than 8,000 Americans and approximately 172 Black soldiers are buried, told the story of the “Black Liberators of Margraten,” including telephone engineer George H. Pruitt, who died while trying to save a fellow soldier. One panel described how over one million African Americans served in World War II, often confined to support roles and forced to fight both the enemy abroad and entrenched racism within their own military. Reports indicate that the decision to pull the panels followed complaints from the Heritage Foundation, which accused the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) of violating Trump-era directives targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Local Dutch officials and political parties have condemned the removal as “indecent” and “unacceptable,” underscoring the deep respect in the Netherlands for the Black Liberators of Margraten. “When the record of our nation grows inconvenient to those who trade in revisionism, they reach for the eraser instead of the truth,” Congressman Jackson said. “This decision dishonors the very freedoms those Black GIs defended. We must never let their stories be buried a second time.” Congressman Jackson is a proud supporter and signatory of the effort led by Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (MO-05), in which more than 30 Members of Congress have called on ABMC to immediately restore the displays honoring Black servicemembers at Margraten and to explain the circumstances of their removal. The Cleaver-led letter emphasizes that more than one million African Americans served in World War II and that the 172 Black soldiers interred at the Netherlands American Cemetery must be fully and permanently recognized in the visitor center and public interpretation. “In addition to pursuing my own oversight efforts, I have joined Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II and many of my colleagues in a formal letter demanding that the Black servicemember displays at Margraten be restored without delay,” Jackson stated. “Their letter makes clear that the service and sacrifice of more than a million African American troops, and of the Black Liberators of Margraten in particular, are not optional footnotes; they are central to the history of World War II.” Congressman Jackson is calling for vigorous oversight, including hearings in the House committees with jurisdiction, to ensure that U.S. historical representations overseas are not manipulated by partisan or ideological pressures. He has expressed support for requiring ABMC to adopt policies that guarantee permanent, prominent recognition of Black servicemembers’ contributions at Margraten and at all American cemeteries and memorials under its care. “Every American who wears the uniform deserves to be remembered with dignity; regardless of race or rank,” Jackson added. “I stand shoulder to shoulder with Congressman Cleaver and every member of Congress insisting that ABMC restore these displays, commit to permanent recognition of the Black Liberators of Margraten, and ensure that the truth of their service is never again subject to partisan pressure or quiet removal.” Congressman Jackson, a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, has long advocated for correcting racial disparities in veterans’ benefits and for elevating the stories of Black servicemembers whose heroism was too often ignored upon their return home. “History is truth in service of justice,” Jackson concluded. “The story of the Black Liberators of Margraten will not be erased; not on my watch and not on behalf of the people I serve.”",1,2026-06-12T06:37:16Z,2026-06-12T06:39:00Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-senator-warner-introduce-bill-help-workers-adapt-ai,"Congressman Krishnamoorthi, Senator Warner Introduce Bill to Help Workers Adapt to AI-Driven Economy",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) and Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) introduced the Investing in American Workers Act, legislation to help workers gain the skills they need to succeed as artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and rapid technological change reshape the economy. The Investing in American Workers Act would modernize the tax code to encourage employers to invest in workforce training tied to recognized postsecondary credentials, particularly for lower- and moderate-income workers, so employees can adapt to new technologies, transition into emerging roles, and share in the gains of a rapidly evolving economy. “Businesses across the country are still struggling to find workers with the training needed for today’s jobs, and workers need better access to affordable, employer-supported opportunities to build new skills,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “This legislation expands access to high-quality training programs that help workers move into good, stable careers while strengthening the competitiveness of our businesses and growing the middle class. If we want the United States to remain the world’s economic leader, we must invest in the workers who drive our economy. When people have the skills they need to get ahead, our communities grow stronger and the entire country benefits.” “As artificial intelligence and automation transform nearly every sector of our economy, the question isn’t whether jobs will change – it’s whether workers will be given a fair shot to keep up. If we want the United States to lead in innovation, we must also lead in preparing workers for the jobs of the future,” Sen. Warner said. “Right now, our tax code rewards companies for investing in machines and software, but not nearly enough for investing in people. This bill applies a proven model, the R&D tax credit, to incentivize employers to offer workforce training, so workers can build new skills, businesses can stay competitive, and the benefits of technological change are more widely shared.” As AI tools increasingly alter job requirements in sectors from manufacturing and logistics to health care, finance, and professional services, many workers lack access to affordable, employer-supported training. At the same time, businesses often face little incentive to make long-term investments in their employees. While the tax code offers a Research and Development (R&D) tax credit for investments in technology and capital assets, it provides no comparable incentive for workforce training. The Investing in American Workers Act addresses this gap by: Establishing a tax credit for employers who increase spending on worker training, equal to 20 percent of increased training expenditures for eligible workers earning $96,000 or less per year. Incentivizing high-quality, industry-aligned training, including registered apprenticeships, WIOA-certified programs, community college and career and technical education programs, and employer- or labor-sponsored training that leads to recognized postsecondary credentials. Encouraging participation by small businesses, allowing eligible small employers and tax-exempt entities to apply the credit against payroll taxes through a simplified filing process. Promoting accountability and transparency, including data collection to ensure training investments are reaching a diverse workforce. Supporters note that aligning workforce policy with the pace of technological change is critical to maintaining U.S. economic leadership and ensuring that AI-driven productivity gains benefit workers as well as employers. “The accelerating pace of change in the workplace is reshaping workforce needs and reinforcing the importance of proactive, sustained investment in skills. Workday strongly supports the reintroduction of the Investing in American Workers Act, which recognizes the critical role employers play in helping workers build the agility needed for the future of work. This legislation affirms a powerful truth: reskilling is not an operational burden, but a strategic investment in an organization’s most valuable resource – its people,” said Chandler Morse, Vice President of Public Policy, Workday. ""Workers need access to high-quality skills training, and employers need a workforce with the skills required to meet rapidly changing hiring needs. By incentivizing employer investments in training, including small businesses, this bill helps meet hiring needs while expanding workers’ access to good jobs and strengthening communities more broadly,” said Megan Evans, Senior Government Affairs Manager, National Skills Coalition. “AI is transforming jobs at unprecedented speed, putting many workers at risk of being left behind unless we act quickly to help them build new, in-demand skills before they exit the labor market. The Investing in American Workers Act offers a smart, scalable solution - modeled on the R&D credit - by incentivizing employers to expand high-quality training that leads to portable credentials and enables workers to advance while staying connected to the workforce.” - Maria Flynn, President & CEO, Jobs for the Future The legislation has also been endorsed by Jobs for the Future and the American Association of Community Colleges.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-responds-return-masked-federal-immigration-raids-chicago-area,Krishnamoorthi Responds to the Return of Masked Federal Immigration Raids to Chicago-Area Communities,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SCHAUMBURG, IL — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi today issued the following statement in response to renewed deployments of masked federal agents conducting surprise immigration raids in Chicago-area neighborhoods during the holiday season: “My office is actively monitoring and responding to the renewed deployment of masked federal agents in Chicago-area neighborhoods. Conducting surprise raids during the holidays that chase people through our streets, separate families, and target non-criminal residents is not about public safety. It is about fear and intimidation. I will use every oversight and legislative tool available to confront these abuses, defend due process, and hold federal agencies and their leaders accountable.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://lahood.house.gov/2025/12/illinois-congressional-republicans-urge-trump-to-reject-madigan-pardon-request,Illinois Congressional Republicans Urge Trump to Reject Madigan Pardon Request,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16), Mary Miller (IL-15), and Mike Bost (IL-12) sent a letter to President Trump urging him to reject former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s request for a presidential pardon. The letter from Illinois’ U.S. House Republican delegation reads in part: “We write with a unified message as Republican Members of the United States House of Representatives for the State of Illinois to express our concerns regarding a request for a presidential pardon from former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan. Illinois families and taxpayers have suffered for decades under entrenched corruption, and a pardon in this case would send a dangerous message that public officials can betray the public trust with impunity. “The bribery and corruption scheme involved the misuse of state resources, including directing public utility contracts and payments to benefit private political allies. This was a deliberate, long-running pattern of abuse of public office. “Granting clemency in this case would not only reward a lifetime of unethical behavior but also embolden other public officials to exploit their offices for personal gain. For these reasons, we respectfully urge you to deny any request for a presidential pardon from Michael Madigan. Denying his request is the best way to ensure Illinois residents know their leaders are held to the highest standards of integrity.” The full letter to President Trump can be read here.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-help-introduce-no-check-no-sale-bill-to-close-the-charleston-loophole,"Duckworth, Durbin Help Introduce “No Check, No Sale” Bill to Close the Charleston Loophole",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"In 2024, nearly 3,000 firearms were sold to people who legally shouldn’t have access to firearms because dealers were not required to wait for completed background checks [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) with 23 of their Senate Democratic colleagues in introducing legislation to close a current loophole that allows firearm sales to proceed if a background check is not completed within a certain time period, even if the buyer is not legally allowed to purchase a firearm. The gap in existing law has allowed thousands of firearm sales to prohibited buyers, including the sale of the firearm used by the shooter in the deadly attack at Charleston’s Emanuel AME Church. “It’s just common sense that if you can’t pass a background check, you shouldn’t be able to purchase a firearm—and the vast majority of Americans agree,” said Duckworth. “This legislation will help us close this senseless loophole and help keep weapons out of the hands of those who shouldn’t have them. Enough is enough.” “We have seen the tragic consequences when guns end up in the hands of prohibited buyers because a background check was not able to be completed in time. The Background Check Completion Act would finally ensure that no one will be able to purchase a firearm from a gun dealer without first passing a background check,” said Durbin. “It’s long past time that we fixed this loophole.” When a criminal background check indicates that a firearm purchaser may have a criminal record, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) tries to determine whether the purchaser can legally buy a firearm. If this process takes longer than 72 hours for those 21 years of age or older, or 10 days for those under 21, firearm dealers can complete the sale even though there is a heightened risk that the purchaser is legally disqualified from purchasing a firearm. The Background Check Completion Act would require a completed background check for every buyer who purchases a firearm from a federally licensed firearm dealer. Along with Duckworth, Durbin and Blumenthal, the Background Check Completion Act is also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Chris Coons (D-DE), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The legislation has been endorsed by Everytown for Gun Safety, Giffords, Brady, Sandy Hook Promise and Newtown Action Alliance. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-celebrates-seventh-anniversary-of-the-first-step-act-in-speech-on-senate-floor,Durbin Celebrates Seventh Anniversary Of The First Step Act In Speech On Senate Floor,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, celebrated the seventh anniversary of the First Step Act (FSA)—bipartisan criminal justice reform legislation designed to make our justice system fairer and our communities safer by reforming sentencing laws and providing opportunities for those who are incarcerated to prepare to re-enter society successfully. The First Step Act was signed into law by President Trump in December 2018, and was championed by Durbin and U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Mike Lee (R-UT). “This December marks the seventh anniversary of the passage of the First Step Act—the most significant reform to our criminal justice system in a generation. That victory was born out of years of bipartisan negotiations led by myself and my colleagues, Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey, Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa, and Senator Mike Lee of Utah. The end result was—and continues to be—life-changing for the people who were impacted. The First Step Act delivered much-needed reforms to our outdated sentencing laws and provided opportunities for incarcerated Americans to safely reenter their communities. Those reforms have reduced populations in overcrowded prisons, reunited families, and revitalized the communities these men and women reenter as productive neighbors. And the evidence backs that up.” Durbin noted that the reforms made by the First Step Act have been tremendously successful. Of more than 40,000 people released under the law through January 2024, just under 10 percent have been rearrested compared to the Bureau of Prisons’ overall recidivism rate of about 45 percent. Durbin went on to share the story of Eugenia Jennings from Alton, Illinois, who sadly experienced the injustice of our antiquated sentencing laws firsthand. Eugenia was terribly abused as a child, and by age 15, she was addicted to crack cocaine. At age 23, then a mother of three, Eugenia was sentenced to more than 20 years in federal prison for selling less than 14 grams of the drug. “In prison, she was a model for others. She took all the courses available to her, overcame her addiction, and talked to students about the dangers of drug addiction. Sadly, while she was incarcerated, she developed leukemia. I asked President Barack Obama, my former colleague in the Senate, to commute Eugenia’s sentence, and he did just that… Eugenia was released just in time to see her oldest daughter graduate from high school. I cannot tell you the joy in her voice when she told me that. She passed away two years later, but her story has lived on—and served as a driving force behind my efforts to reform our federal drug sentencing laws. Eugenia’s story led me to meet more individuals whose lives were forever altered by unfair sentencing laws—including Matthew Charles.” Durbin then shared the story of Matthew Charles who, like Eugenia, also had a difficult childhood, enduring both physical and verbal abuse. He joined the Army at age 18, but found himself still filled with anger and hurt—eventually turning to what he has called “wayward living” and selling drugs. Matthew received a state conviction and then a federal conviction. Because he had a prior conviction when he ended up in federal court, and because he had been selling crack rather than powder cocaine, Matthew received a 35-year sentence. “While in prison, he worked as a GED tutor and a law library clerk, in addition to mentoring younger people. He helped other incarcerated individuals who could not read to understand their letters and court documents, and he drafted filings for them. In 21 years in prison, Matthew did not receive a single disciplinary infraction. After Matthew’s conviction and sentence, Congress passed a law I wrote, called the Fair Sentencing Act, which reduced the disparity in sentencing between crack and powder cocaine offenses. But the law was not retroactive,” Durbin said. “When Eugenia and Matthew were sentenced, the hands of their sentencing judges were tied—because Congress severely limited a judge’s discretion to impose an individualized sentence and instead mandated overly-harsh one-size-fits-all penalties. The First Step Act took one giant step toward correcting that unfair system. Among other reforms, it made the Fair Sentencing Act retroactive. Matthew Charles was one of the first people released from prison after the First Step Act became law.” Durbin then spoke about a package of bipartisan bills he introduced this week with U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, to expand on the progress of the FSA. Durbin and Grassley reintroduced the First Step Implementation Act, the Safer Detention Act, and the Prohibiting Punishment of Acquitted Conduct Act. They also introduced new legislation to extend the FSA’s annual reporting requirement by five years. “But, as the name of the First Step Act suggests, it is just that—one first step. There is more to be done. To make our justice system fairer and our communities safer, we must continue reforming our sentencing laws in a smart way,” Durbin said. Durbin concluded, “The First Step Act’s passage was a glimmer of bipartisanship in a political arena… and its success shows what we can accomplish on behalf of the American people when we put aside our differences and come to the table with reasonable approaches. We need evidence-backed solutions to reduce crime and make our communities safer. So, as we celebrate this anniversary, I will continue to work with my colleagues to reform outdated sentencing laws. Let’s rekindle that spirit of bipartisanship and get something done in the Senate… Together, we can reduce crime, improve our justice system, and make our communities safer.” Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here. Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here. Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations. Durbin has long championed efforts to address inequities in our criminal justice system. Durbin was also the lead sponsor of the Fair Sentencing Act of 2010, bipartisan legislation signed into law by then-President Obama that reduced the unjust sentencing disparity between crack and powder cocaine and eliminated the mandatory minimum sentence for simple possession of crack cocaine. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-grassley-introduce-criminal-justice-reform-bills,"Durbin, Grassley Introduce Criminal Justice Reform Bills",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"As lead sponsors of the landmark First Step Act, Durbin and Grassley are working to continue to make our justice system fairer and our communities safer, including introducing new legislation to extend the First Step Act’s annual reporting requirement by five years WASHINGTON – Around the seventh anniversary of the First Step Act (FSA), U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, introduced four pieces of criminal justice reform legislation to further implement the FSA and advance its goals. Durbin and Grassley were the lead sponsors of the landmark First Step Act, which is bipartisan criminal justice reform legislation designed to make our justice system fairer and our communities safer by reforming sentencing laws and providing opportunities for those who are incarcerated to prepare to reenter society successfully. It was signed into law in December 2018. Durbin and Grassley reintroduced the First Step Implementation Act, the Safer Detention Act, and the Prohibiting Punishment of Acquitted Conduct Act. They also introduced new legislation to extend the FSA’s annual reporting requirement by five years. “Seven years ago, Congress came together to pass the most important criminal justice reform law in a generation. But as its name suggests, it was just the first step,” Durbin said. “In order to keep making our justice system fairer and our communities safer, we must continue reforming our antiquated and outdated sentencing laws and providing opportunities for those who are incarcerated to prepare to reenter society successfully. I appreciate Senator Grassley’s partnership in this important endeavor.” “Criminals must face just penalties, and our nation’s criminal justice system should seek to prevent recidivism,” Grassley said. “I’m committed to advancing efforts that will help reduce crime, improve our nation’s justice system and safeguard American communities.” First Step Implementation Act The bipartisan First Step Implementation Act of 2025 aims to further implement the FSA and advance its goals. The First Step Implementation Act would further the goals of the FSA by: Allowing courts to apply the FSA sentencing reform provisions to reduce sentences imposed prior to the enactment of the FSA; Broadening the safety valve provision to allow courts to sentence below a mandatory minimum for nonviolent controlled substance offenses, if the court finds the defendant’s criminal history over-represents the seriousness of the defendant’s criminal record and the likelihood of recidivism; Allowing courts to reduce sentences imposed on juvenile offenders who have served more than 20 years; Providing for the sealing or expungement of records of nonviolent juvenile offenses; and, Requiring the Attorney General to establish procedures ensuring that only accurate criminal records are shared for employment-related purposes. The legislation is endorsed by the following organizations: American Civil Liberties Union, Brennan Center, CPAC, Dream.org, Drug Policy Alliance, Due Process Institute, FAMM, Human Rights for Kids, Law Enforcement Leaders, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Tzedek Association, Prison Fellowship, Prison Fellowship Ministries, R Street Institute, and Right On Crime. Bill text is available here. Safer Detention Act The bipartisan Safer Detention Act of 2025 would reauthorize and reform the now-expired Elderly Home Detention Pilot Program, clarify applicability of compassionate release from federal prisons, and implement other reforms, including: Clarifying that the percentage of time served required for the Elderly Home Detention Pilot Program should be calculated based on an inmate’s sentence, including reductions for good conduct time credits; Expanding the eligibility criteria for the Elderly Home Detention Pilot Program to include nonviolent offenders who have served at least 50 percent of their terms of imprisonment; Clarifying that elderly nonviolent D.C. Code offenders in BOP custody are eligible for the Elderly Home Detention Pilot Program and that federal prisoners sentenced before November 1, 1987 are eligible for compassionate release; and, Subjecting elderly home detention eligibility decisions to judicial review (based on the First Step Act’s compassionate release provision). The legislation is endorsed by the following organizations: American Civil Liberties Union, Brennan Center, CPAC, Dream.org, Drug Policy Alliance, Due Process Institute, FAMM, Law Enforcement Leaders, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Prison Fellowship, Prison Fellowship Ministries, Right on Crime, Sentencing Project, and Tzedek Association. Bill text is available here. Prohibiting Punishment of Acquitted Conduct Act The bipartisan Prohibiting Punishment of Acquitted Conduct Act of 2025 would end the unjust practice of judges increasing sentences based on conduct for which a defendant has been acquitted by a jury. Our criminal justice system rests on the Fifth and Sixth Amendment guarantees of due process and the right to a jury trial for the criminally accused. These principles require the government to prove a defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt to a jury. Under the Constitution, defendants may be convicted only for conduct proven beyond a reasonable doubt. However, at sentencing, courts may enhance sentences if they find, by the lower preponderance of the evidence standard, that a defendant committed other crimes. The difference in those standards of proof means that a sentencing court can effectively nullify a jury’s verdict by considering acquitted conduct. The Prohibiting Punishment of Acquitted Conduct Act would end this practice by: Amending 18 U.S.C. § 3661 to preclude a court of the United States from considering, except for purposes of mitigating a sentence, acquitted conduct at sentencing, and Defining “acquitted conduct” to include acts for which a person was criminally charged and adjudicated not guilty after trial in a Federal, State, Tribal, or Juvenile court, or acts underlying a criminal charge or juvenile information dismissed upon a motion for acquittal. The legislation is endorsed by the following organizations: American Civil Liberties Union, Brennan Center, CPAC, Dream.org, Drug Policy Alliance, Due Process Institute, FAMM, Human Rights for Kids, Innocence Project, Law Enforcement Leaders, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, R Street Institute, Right on Crime, Tzedek Association, and Sentencing Project. Bill text is available here. FSA Reporting Extension Act The bipartisan FSA Reporting Extension Act would extend the FSA’s annual reporting requirement by five years. The FSA requires the Attorney General to submit annual reports to Congress on the FSA’s implementation and impact for five consecutive years starting two years after implementation. This information is crucial for Congressional oversight of the continued implementation and operation of the FSA. This simple legislation extends this reporting for the next five years. Bill text is available here. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-speaks-at-spotlight-forum-raising-alarm-about-president-trumps-crusade-to-dismantle-the-department-of-education,Durbin Speaks At Spotlight Forum Raising Alarm About President Trump’s Crusade To Dismantle The Department Of Education,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today participated in a spotlight forum entitled “Dismantling Education: What the Trump Administration’s Illegal Attacks on Federal Programs Mean for Students, Families, and Educators.” The forum, convened by U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI), focused on the dangerous consequences of the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education (ED) for the nation’s students, families, and schools. “The creation of the Department of Education, in my mind, was an effort to take Brown v. Board of Education to a new level. Once we established equality of opportunity in the law, we looked around and said, ‘This isn’t even close to being equal. We’re going to have to focus resources and expertise into improving schools to get rid of the disparities.’ Now comes the Trump Administration, which says we don’t need it [ED] anymore. They’ll parcel out the functions of the Department of Education,” Durbin said. Durbin then asked Ms. Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers, about her thoughts on the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle ED. “Ms. Weingarten, I noticed that you’re not only a professional teacher but also went to law school. So with that combination of education and law that I just made, would you like to comment on that?” Durbin asked. Ms. Weingarten replied that the initial destruction of ED by the Trump Administration is a direct challenge to the constitutional standard that all children in the United States, regardless of race and immigration status and including students with disabilities, deserve equal opportunity. Video of Durbin’s remarks are available here. Audio of Durbin’s remarks are available here. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-statement-on-trumps-plan-to-eliminate-more-than-35000-va-health-care-positions,"Duckworth Statement on Trump’s Plan to Eliminate More Than 35,000 VA Health Care Positions",2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement in reaction to the Trump Administration’s reported plan to eliminate more than 35,000 VA health care positions this month—on top of the almost 30,000 employees cut from the VA workforce earlier this year: “Trump has already fired more Veterans than any other President in history. And now, by cruelly planning to eliminate tens of thousands of VA health care positions in addition to the indiscriminate cuts he made to the VA workforce earlier this year, Trump is proving once again that he couldn’t care less about those actually brave enough to wear the uniform of this great nation. Not only is Trump guaranteeing that our VA won’t have the number of staff needed to handle the influx of new claims, but he is also ensuring that our Veterans will wait even longer to get treated—if they can get treatment at all. “In his first year in office, Trump’s track record easily makes his Administration the most anti-Veteran Administration our country has ever seen. He continues to make it clear that once our troops have completed their service to our country and hang up their uniform, Trump will not keep his promise to ensure these heroes have the support, care and benefits they’ve earned. “It’s downright insulting, un-American and the ultimate betrayal.” -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-condemns-antisemitic-attack-at-bondi-beach-as-hanukkah-begins-violent-shooting-at-brown-university,"Durbin Condemns Antisemitic Attack At Bondi Beach As Hanukkah Begins, Violent Shooting At Brown University",2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Durbin: “As we seek to address the scourge of antisemitism and gun violence, may we act in the path of these brave bystanders—who in crisis chose humanity and love over violence and hate” WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, condemned the antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach in Australia as Hanukkah begins, as well as the shooting at Brown University. “In Skokie, Illinois, just a few miles north of Chicago, is America’s second largest Holocaust Museum. Those who visit see thousands of artifacts from victims and survivors and their families. And there is one lesson that every visitor takes away: All who walk through its doors learn the importance of tolerance—the need to choose love over hate. I have been reflecting on this lesson in the wake of two awful acts of violence that took place this past weekend,” said Durbin. “On Sunday night in Australia, as hundreds of people gathered at Bondi Beach to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah, two men opened fire on the crowd. The attendees at Bondi Beach were targeted simply for one reason: they were Jewish. They were out to celebrate their faith. At least 15 people were killed and dozens more were injured. I am offering my prayers for the victims and their families. I am thankful for the heroic actions of both first responders and civilians to end the gunmen’s rampage. This act of horrific violence is a grim reminder that we cannot stop combatting antisemitism. This tragedy occurred just hours after Brown University here in the United States experienced its own mass shooting.” continued Durbin. Durbin then offered acknowledgment and support to two men who exhibited tremendous bravery at these horrific events. “In the aftermath of these two tragedies, I am in awe of the bravery and sacrifice displayed by those caught up in these attacks. One of them, Ahmed al Ahmed, tackled one of the shooters at Bondi Beach, saving countless lives. He is now undergoing surgery, and I wish him a swift and full recovery. Another, Spencer Yang, after being shot in the leg, continued to help one of his fellow students at Brown hide from the gunman. To Spencer, too, I wish full and swift recovery. Ahmed, Spencer, and countless others should never be put in these unimaginable situations. And yet, their selfless acts in the face of such violence are the ultimate demonstrations of love—a willingness to risk their own lives to save a stranger,” said Durbin. “As we seek to address the scourge of antisemitism and gun violence, may we act in the path of these brave bystanders—who in crisis chose humanity and love over violence and hate,” Durbin concluded. Video of Durbin’s speech on the Senate floor is available here. Audio of Durbin’s speech on the Senate floor is available here. Footage of Durbin’s speech on the Senate floor is available herefor TV Stations. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-slams-trump-administration-for-cuts-to-nih-medical-research-in-speech-on-the-senate-floor,"Durbin Slams Trump Administration For Cuts To NIH, Medical Research In Speech On The Senate Floor",2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today spoke out against the Trump Administration’s dangerous cuts to medical research. In his remarks, Durbin stressed that the President’s decision to cut medical research funding at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) will set back medical advancement by decades by disrupting research into cancer, brain diseases, mental health, drug development, and more. Durbin began his speech by recalling his first time meeting Dr. Francis Collins, then-Director of NIH, who urged him to steadily increase NIH’s budget year over year. Over the past decade, Durbin has pushed for annual, real five percent funding increases for NIH. Since Fiscal Year 2015 (FY15), because of Durbin’s efforts, Congress has provided NIH with a 60 percent increase in annual funding, raising the appropriations level from $30 billion in FY15 to $48 billion today. However, President Trump continues to target NIH by cancelling hundreds of grant awards, firing or forcing out thousands of scientists, and freezing billions of dollars in research funding—which jeopardizes new breakthroughs that provide hope for patients. “Ten years ago, I met with Dr. Francis Collins, then-Director of the National Institutes of Health, the world’s premier biomedical research agency. I admired his work so much I asked what I could do to help. He said, ‘if you could provide a five percent increase to NIH’s medical research budget year after year, we’ll light up the scoreboard,’” Durbin said. “With the help of colleagues on both sides of the aisle—[including] Republican Senators Roy Blunt, Lamar Alexander, and Democratic Senator Patty Murray—we increased NIH funding from $30 billion to $48 billion over those next ten years. [That was a] 60 percent increase in research; a 60 percent increase in cures, hope, and breakthroughs. But what took us 10 years to build, President Donald Trump has all but dismantled in less than 11 months.” Durbin then emphasized the consequences of these dangerous cuts. This year, the President and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) instituted a new set of rules at NIH that have resulted in 3,500 fewer grants going to researchers. “Recent reporting from the New York Times shed light on the dire consequences of President Trump’s medical research cuts…Funding for mental health was reduced by 31 percent, brain diseases by 26 percent, cancer research by 19 percent. All of these reductions are in real areas of opportunity, which we are walking away from under Trump. This is a fundamental blow to how America supports medical research, and it has real implications for the progress we’ve made,” Durbin said. While the Trump Administration has sought to formalize these funding cuts, the Senate Appropriations Committee has pushed back by including an increase in funding for NIH in Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26). “I am pleased the Senate Appropriations Committee, on a bipartisan basis, rejected Trump’s proposed cuts and actually provided an increase for next year [FY26]. But if the Administration ignores Congress’ wish and continues to upend research funding, it could create irreparable harm,” Durbin said. Relaying his own experience as a once-uninsured father of a newborn with a severe heart condition, Durbin spoke about the hope that medical research provides for families facing a serious diagnosis. “As the father of a child born with a severe medical condition, I know personally that families across this country depend on the hope and promise that research holds. Cures and treatments come from the National Institutes of Health, which funded the research behind 99 percent of the new drugs approved by FDA in the last decade,” Durbin continued. “So, when Donald Trump handicaps NIH’s work, he is telling patients: your cure can wait.” Durbin concluded his remarks by reminding his Senate colleagues that research institutions in both red and blue states will be harmed by the Trump Administration’s crusade to cut funding for medical advancements. “Our universities—not just in blue states, but great research institutions in Alabama, Kansas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma—will be unable to pursue more cures. Our hospitals—already scaling back operations thanks to budget cuts in the President’s so-called ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’—will be forced to diminish services even more. The scientists and doctors of tomorrow may decide to forgo the profession entirely or bring their talents to other countries,” Durbin said. “As we fight to protect health care for millions of Americans, let us also not forget to fight for the research that fuels that care. We cannot stand for this assault on medical research funding… It’s a matter of finding cures and drugs that will help people all around the world. That has defined America for decades. We cannot let the Trump Administration kill off medical research,” Durbin concluded his speech. This year, Durbin has twice asked for unanimous consent (UC) to pass a resolution he introduced with U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), as well as 21 other Senators, that would pledge support for NIH. The resolution simply said that the work of NIH should not be subject to interruption, delay, or funding disruptions in violation of the law, and it reaffirmed that the NIH workforce is essential to sustaining medical progress. The first UC request was blocked by U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) and the second was blocked by U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK). Durbin has long been a strong advocate for robust medical research. His legislation, the American Cures Act, would provide annual budget increases of five percent plus inflation at America’s top four biomedical research agencies: NIH, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of Defense Health Program, and the Veterans Medical and Prosthetics Research Program. Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here. Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here. Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-to-congressional-republicans-let-us-come-together-and-give-american-families-the-gift-of-health-coverage-for-christmas,Durbin To Congressional Republicans: Let Us Come Together And Give American Families The Gift Of Health Coverage For Christmas,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"On the Senate floor and following Senate Republicans rejecting the Democratic ACA proposal last week, Durbin continues to push his Republican colleagues to come to the table and negotiate with Democrats on a solution to address the looming health care crisis WASHINGTON – As open enrollment for 2026 individual market health insurance plans is underway and Americans across the country are facing astronomic increases in their monthly premiums for next year, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the Senate floor about the health care affordability crisis, caused by congressional Republicans refusing to extend the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits. Last Thursday, Senate Republicans rejected Senate Democrats’ proposal to extend the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits. “In 17 days, 22 million Americans will be asked to pay double or triple for their health insurance premiums. Rural hospitals will be facing closure. Small businesses won’t be able to cover expenses. And more than four million Americans will lose their insurance if we fail to do anything in Congress,” Durbin said. Shortly before the Senate held its vote on extending the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits last week, Durbin spoke on the floor about protecting Americans’ health care coverage. “Last Thursday, Senate Democrats put forward a bill to prevent this catastrophe. Our bill would have provided a clean extension of the Affordable Care Act’s enhanced premium tax credits, which 22 million Americans rely on to help them pay their insurance premiums. These credits expire at the end of this year, but too many Senate Republicans voted against extending them. They instead rushed to vote on a partisan proposal that would upend the Affordable Care Act and the American health care system, less than a month before the insurance premiums spike. Their bill was introduced last week, [was] not debated in committee, and no member had a chance to amend it. I say this to my friends on the other side of the aisle: You are in the majority… You have the power to go through a serious process to reform health care,” Durbin said. In his remarks, Durbin underscored that Congress must swiftly address the rising cost of health care to ensure that Americans are not priced out of their insurance. He spoke about a constituent working at a diner in Chicago who relies on the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits to afford her insurance, but she is worried that she will not be able to afford her insurance come January. “Each additional day we delay an extension of the enhanced premium tax credits, more Americans forgo their health insurance because it’s too darn expensive. Time is running out,” said Durbin. “I recently spoke to a waitress at Lou Mitchell’s restaurant in Chicago. She is personally worried that she will not be able to afford her health care next year without the enhanced premium tax credits… This waitress does not care about who is winning the political fight in Washington; she cares about whether her and her family can pay for their doctors’ appointments and medications. I want to go back to that restaurant soon and tell my friend that the Senate did something to help her. We can help her, so long as we act on a bipartisan basis.” Durbin concluded, “If you don’t like our proposal for a clean, three-year extension, then counter with a reasonable offer. Show that there is a beating heart that cares to address the real problems Americans face. Let us come together and give American families the gift of health coverage they can afford for Christmas.” These tax credits lower health insurance premiums for more than 20 million Americans nationwide, including upwards of 500,000 Illinoisans. Due to Republicans voting against extending these enhanced premium tax credits, more than four million Americans are expected to lose their health care coverage, including more than 160,000 people in Illinois. Tens of millions of others will see their monthly premiums double or even triple. Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here. Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here. Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-condemns-antisemitic-terrorist-attack-hanukkah-celebration,Krishnamoorthi Condemns Antisemitic Terrorist Attack at Hanukkah Celebration in Sydney,2025-12-14,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SCHAUMBURG, IL — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi today released the following statement in response to the deadly shooting attack at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia: “The antisemitic terrorist attack at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney is a heartbreaking tragedy and a brutal act of hatred and violence. My heart is with the victims, their families, and all those mourning this devastating loss. This attack reflects a dangerous rise in antisemitic violence worldwide, with Jewish communities increasingly targeted for their faith. Antisemitism must be rejected and confronted wherever it appears. We stand in solidarity with the people of Australia and with Jewish communities across the world.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-condemns-antisemitic-anti-indian-and-racist-graffiti-nyu,"Krishnamoorthi Condemns Antisemitic, Anti-Indian, and Racist Graffiti at NYU Library",2025-12-13,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SCHAUMBURG, IL — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi released the following statement after reports of antisemitic, anti-Indian, and racist graffiti, including swastikas, inside NYU’s Bern Dibner Library in Brooklyn: “The hateful graffiti discovered at NYU’s Bern Dibner Library, including antisemitic symbols and slurs targeting Indian students and other communities, is deeply disturbing and wholly unacceptable. Acts of hatred and intimidation have no place on our campuses or anywhere in our society. This incident must be fully investigated, and we must remain united in confronting antisemitism, anti-Indian hate, racism, and all forms of bigotry so every student can learn and live free from fear.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-ross-veasey-introduce-resolution-ending-trumps-illegal-tariffs,"Krishnamoorthi, Ross, Veasey, Introduce Resolution Ending Trump’s Illegal Tariffs on India",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, Representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Deborah Ross (D-NC), and Marc Veasey (D-TX) introduced a resolution to terminate President Donald Trump’s national emergency authorizing tariffs of up to 50 percent on imports from India, helping to restore Congress’s constitutional authority over trade. The resolution follows a bipartisan Senate-passed measure to end Trump’s Brazil tariffs and rein in his abuse of emergency powers to raise duties on imports. The resolution would terminate the national emergency that President Trump invoked to impose sweeping tariffs on Indian goods under the International Emergency Economics Powers Act (IEEPA) and rescind the additional 25 percent “secondary” duties that took effect on August 27th on top of earlier reciprocal tariffs. Together, these measures raised duties on many Indian-origin products to 50 percent. “President Trump’s irresponsible tariff strategy toward India is a counterproductive approach that weakens a critical partnership,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “Instead of advancing American interests or security, these duties disrupt supply chains, harm American workers, and drive up costs for consumers. Ending these damaging tariffs will allow the United States to engage with India to advance our shared economic and security needs.” “North Carolina’s economy is deeply connected to India through trade, investment, and a vibrant Indian American community,” Congresswoman Ross said. “Indian companies have invested over a billion dollars and created thousands of good-paying jobs in our state – especially in the Research Triangle’s life sciences and technology sectors. Meanwhile, North Carolina manufacturers export hundreds of millions of dollars in goods to India each year, including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and advanced machinery. When Trump destabilizes this relationship with illegal tariffs, he puts North Carolina jobs, innovation, and our long-term competitiveness at risk.” “India is an important cultural, economic, and strategic partner and these illegal tariffs are a tax on everyday North Texans who are already struggling with affordability at every level,” Congressman Veasey said. Representatives Ross, Veasey, and Krishnamoorthi have been leading voices in Congress opposing Trump’s tariff agenda and calling for a reset of U.S.–India relations. In October, they partnered with Congressman Ro Khanna (D-CA) and 19 Members of Congress in urging President Trump to repair America’s strained relationship with India and reverse his harmful tariff policies. Ending Trump’s India tariffs is part of a broader effort by congressional Democrats to reclaim Congress’ constitutional authority over trade and to stop the President from using emergency powers to unilaterally impose his misguided trade policies.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-statement-honor-hanukkah-calls-action-against-antisemitism,"Quigley Statement in Honor of Hanukkah, Calls for Action Against Antisemitism",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,quigley,https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) released the following statement in honor of the start of Hanukkah this weekend, and issued a reminder to condemn antisemitism: “This weekend, Jewish families across Chicago, the country, and the world, are celebrating Hanukkah. The Festival of Lights is a time for reflection and celebration – a time to find gratitude for life’s blessings. As we celebrate the resilience of the Jewish people, we must also recognize the struggles the community continues to face. “Last year, anti-Jewish hate crimes rose almost 60 percent. Across the city, we have seen racist flyers, synagogue windows smashed, and schools defaced with hate symbols. Though three percent of Chicago’s residents are Jewish, the community makes up almost 40 percent of hate crime victims. The way to fight antisemitism and prejudice here at home is to identify it, speak out against it, and take action. We must work together to make sure every member of our community feels protected. That requires each of us to show up for our neighbors and reject attempts to divide us. “I am committed to taking steps to fight antisemitism at the federal level. This includes by supporting the Holocaust Education and Antisemitism Lessons (HEAL) Act, which directs the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum to study and report on Holocaust education efforts and the Countering Antisemitism Act, which would take comprehensive action to combat antisemitism in America. “The story of Hanukkah and the Jewish people is one of trial and triumph, throughout history and in the present day. I wish all of my Jewish friends a Chag Sameach!” ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases/ramirez-takano-blumenthal-lead-52-members-congress-investigation-vas-plan,"Ramirez, Takano, Blumenthal lead 52 Members of Congress in Investigation into VA’s Plan to Create Database of Non-U.S. Citizens",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Delia C. Ramirez,R000617,ramirez.house.gov,ramirez,https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC —Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Ranking Member of the Veterans’ Affairs Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ranking Member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, and Congressman Mark Takano (CA-39), Ranking Member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, led 52 members of Congress in opening an investigation into VA’s plans to create a database of all non-U.S. citizens employed by or affiliated with the VA. The members are demanding answers from the U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) Doug Collins and U.S. Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Kristi Noem after a spokesperson for the agency confirmed in The Guardian’s report that the data will be shared with immigration enforcement. “The potential of VA data being used by DHS to advance the mass detention and deportation agenda of the Trump Administration will seed fear in noncitizens who perform duties in service to our nation's veterans. This database is yet another obvious attempt by the Trump Administration to stifle political dissent and suppress free speech through baseless threats to immigrants,” wrote the lawmakers. The letter follows a leaked memo revealing that the VA would share the collected data for immigration enforcement purposes. Lawmakers emphasized the damaging consequences the database could have on VA care and benefits. “VA’s approach comes at a time when nationwide healthcare provider shortages are limiting access to care for all Americans, including veterans. Further, VA’s approach also risks serious diplomatic consequences for countries where veterans reside and receive VA care and benefits. Worst of all, the proposed data collection could lead to the unlawful imprisonment or deportation of veterans who served our country and continued their service at VA, but were denied U.S. citizenship following their military service,” the lawmakers continued. VA employs more than 450,000 people and thousands of contractors who provide critical services to veterans, including health care, rehabilitation, and financial services. The letter raises concerns that the database would lead to more illegal detention and deportation of veterans and those who are improving veterans’ lives, to push the Trump Administration’s harmful immigration policies. “For the past year, the Trump Administration has shown a complete disregard for individuals’ immigration statuses, including those of veterans; haphazardly and illegally detaining Dreamers, immigrants with valid work permits, visas, and even U.S. citizens. We are concerned the database of all non-U.S. citizens employed by or affiliated with VA will lead to more illegal detentions and deportations of individuals who dedicate themselves to improving veterans' lives,” concluded the lawmakers. The letter was signed by Senator Tammy Duckworth and Representatives Yassamin Ansari, Becca Balint, Donald Beyer, Julia Brownley, André Carson, Troy Carter, Greg Casar, Joaquin Castro, Judy Chu, Gilbert Cisneros, Herbert Conaway, Diana DeGette, Christopher Deluzio, Markn DeSaulnier, Maxine Dexter, Lloyd Doggett, Veronica Escobar, Robert Garcia, Sylvia Garcia, Daniel Goldman, Al Green, Sara Jacobs, Pramila Jayapal, Henry Johnson, Timothy Kennedy, RajaKrishnamoorthi, Summer Lee, Ted Lieu, Sarah McBride, Morgan McGarvey, Kelly Morrison, Seth Moulton, Eleanor Norton, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Frank Pallone, Nellie Pou, Jamie Raskin, Janice Schakowsky, Terri Sewell, Lateefah Simon, Adam Smith, Melanie Stansbury, Shri Thanedar, Rashida Tlaib, Paul Tonko, Norma Torres, Lauren Underwood, Juan Vargas, Nydia Velázquez, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Federica Wilson.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases/underwood-announces-new-office-location-dekalb-illinois,"Underwood Announces New Office Location in DeKalb, Illinois",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Lauren Underwood,U000040,underwood.house.gov,underwood,https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"DEKALB – Today, Representative Lauren Underwood announced a new office location at 2179 Sycamore Road, #107, DeKalb, Illinois. The office officially opens to the public on Friday, December 12. To celebrate the office’s opening, Underwood will be hosting an Open House for constituents at the DeKalb office in January 2026. “Remaining accessible and listening to the 14th District has always been a top priority, and I’m thrilled to be opening a new community space in DeKalb,” said Underwood. “I invite everyone in our community to visit our new space to learn more about the support and resources my office offers and our work on their behalf.” Information on Underwood’s office locations can be found below and on her website at http://underwood.house.gov/. Underwood and her staff are available for in-person and virtual appointments in her Washington, D.C., DeKalb, and Joliet offices; constituents can call 630-549-2190 and staff will determine whether an appointment is necessary to resolve their issue. District offices are open Monday – Friday from 9am-5pm CT. DeKalb, Illinois Office 2179 Sycamore Road, #107 DeKalb, IL 60115 116 N. Chicago Street, Suite 201 Joliet, IL 60432 Phone: (630) 549-2190 2228 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-2976 ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-blumenthal-release-gao-report-recommending-expansion-of-fdas-personnel-and-authority-to-oversee-medical-device-recalls,"Durbin, Blumenthal Release GAO Report Recommending Expansion Of FDA’s Personnel And Authority To Oversee Medical Device Recalls",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Durbin and Blumenthal requested the report in December 2023 after reporting uncovered Philips Respironics’ failure to recall faulty machines despite the company’s knowledge that patients could be harmed by the medical devices WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) today released the Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) newly-completed report on the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) oversight of medical device recalls. In December 2023, Durbin and Blumenthal requested the report from GAO following the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s and ProPublica’s reporting on Philips Respironics’ failure to submit timely and comprehensive adverse event reports, or recall faulty CPAP machines for more than a decade, despite the company’s knowledge that patients could be experiencing severe health consequences from using the medical devices. The report, which is entitled “Medical Device Recalls: HHS and FDA Should Address Limitations In Oversight of Recall Process,” lays out how FDA’s lack of legal authority jeopardizes patients’ safety. GAO reports that “FDA does not have the legal authority to require the manufacturer to implement FDA’s recommendations.” For example, there have been instances in which the agency wanted a medical device manufacturer to inform patients about a recall, but the manufacturer believed communicating with the providers about the recalled device was sufficient. This issue leaves some patients with medical devices—including implanted ones—uninformed and at risk of significant health consequences. Further, the report underscored the damaging impact of insufficient FDA staffing. GAO reports that FDA has insufficient staff to oversee medical device recalls, forcing FDA to forgo critical recall activities like conducting in-person recall audit checks. Despite these shortages, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) fired 3,500 FDA workers earlier this year, including personnel who worked to oversee medical devices. “This report sounds the alarm on the shortcomings of how our government handles medical device recalls, detailing the harms caused by drastic staffing cuts to HHS and how weak enforcement authority has made it even more difficult for FDA to carry out critical oversight activities,” said Durbin. “Now that we have a blueprint for improving medical device recall procedures, we must act. That begins with implementing GAO’s recommendations and passing my legislation, the Medical Device Recall Improvement Act, to streamline communication between device manufacturers, FDA, hospitals, health care professionals, and patients about the medical devices that Americans rely on. HHS and FDA also must take GAO’s recommendations to heart and implement them right away.” “GAO’s report makes clear: FDA needs additional resources and staff to adequately protect Americans from unsafe medical devices. After FDA left patients vulnerable to defective Philips Respironics ventilators, I am glad GAO heeded our call for a thorough review into how these faulty devices reached consumers. Current and future staffing cuts at FDA will only further undermine the agency’s ability to protect people from unnecessary harm. GAO’s report must inform an effective response that protects the public and bolsters FDA’s oversight,” said Blumenthal. Main takeaways from GAO’s report include: Insufficient Staffing at FDA. Even before HHS fired 3,500 FDA employees earlier this year, the agency did not have sufficient staff to conduct necessary medical device recall oversight activities. As a result, FDA will often forgo reviewing manufacturer Recall Status Reports or conducting in-person recall audit checks. FDA currently does not have sufficient resources or staffing to efficiently process the volume of medical device recalls, which is more than three times higher than the number of pharmaceutical recalls. In the report, GAO recommends that HHS develop a new workforce strategy to support efforts to conduct oversight on medical device recalls. Lack of Legal Authority. FDA does not have the legal authority to require manufacturers to implement FDA’s recommendations during a medical device recall. For instance, some manufacturers believed that communicating about a recall with only health care providers, and not directly reaching out to patients, was sufficient. This lack of authority puts patients at risk because they may not have received the proper details about a recall of their medical device. In the report, GAO recommends that HHS work with FDA to assess additional legislative authorities to oversee medical device recalls. A copy of the final report can be found here. Addressing some of the concerns laid out in GAO’s report, Durbin reintroduced the Medical Device Recall Improvement Act earlier this week. The legislation would require FDA to establish an electronic format for medical device recall notifications to streamline communication between device manufacturers, FDA, hospitals, and health care professionals. It also would require manufacturers to include in recall notices information about how the recall could affect patients with medical devices and further instructs hospitals and health care professionals to share that information with patients. FDA oversees the regulation of almost 200,000 medical devices in the U.S., from contact lenses and contraceptive devices to prosthetics and pacemakers. According to the American Medical Association, more than 32 million Americans have an implanted medical device, and countless others use them throughout their lives. These devices improve and save lives. However, medical devices that are recalled for safety issues or manufacturing defects can cause severe harm to patients. Medical device manufacturers communicate recall information to FDA and health care professionals through letter and email. This extends the amount of time it takes FDA to review recall information, determine a recall classification, and communicate the recall to the public. It also extends the amount of time it takes hospital coordinators to track and pull recalled medical devices from inventories. As a result, patients are often the last informed about a recall—if ever. According to Consumer Reports, most Americans are not aware of recalls for their products, including medical devices. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-calls-out-republican-vote-to-raise-health-insurance-premiums,Durbin Calls Out Republican Vote To Raise Health Insurance Premiums,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"CAHOKIA HEIGHTS - U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today held a press conference at Southern Illinois Healthcare Foundation’s (SIHF) Cahokia Heights Health Center following Senate Republicans’ vote yesterday to raise health insurance premiums for tens of millions of Americans. Senate Republicans voted against the Democratic legislation to extend the expiring Affordable Care Act (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits, meaning Illinoisans who purchase marketplace health plans will see an average 78 percent increase in their monthly ACA premium expenses next year. Families in St. Clair and Madison Counties, which Cahokia Heights Health Center serves, will see an average $1,500 per year increase and a $1,700 per year increase, respectively. “Because congressional Republicans refused to extend the expiring tax credits, 160,000 Illinoisans are expected to lose health care coverage,” said Durbin. “Our health care providers, like the ones here at Cahokia Heights Health Center, know all too well how devastating this will be. If Republicans don’t get serious about negotiating with Democrats to extend these tax credits, our nation’s affordability crisis is going to get worse on January 1, and families will suffer.” “The premium spikes to the ACA will impact the coverage of over 5,000 individuals we presently care for at SIHF Healthcare locations across southern Illinois. This in return will increase uncompensated care and place financial risk to our communities served,” said Larry McCulley, CEO of SIHF Healthcare. Shortly before the Senate held its vote on extending the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits, Durbin spoke on the floor about protecting Americans’ health care coverage. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/casten-statement-on-impeachment-vote,Casten Statement on Impeachment Vote,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. (December 11, 2025) — U.S. Congressman Sean Casten released the following statement regarding today’s vote on a motion to table articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump: “Donald Trump should not be president. He has been impeached twice, and the only reason he is president today is because the Senate failed to uphold its duty and convict him after inciting a violent insurrection in an attempt to overthrow American democracy. “Donald Trump has committed innumerable impeachable offenses in his second term. His administration is rife with lawless actions that meet the bar of high crimes and misdemeanors. He should be removed from office, and I by no means condone Republican arguments to the contrary. “But to support an impeachment resolution today would be to put the Senate in a position to once again ignore its duty. It would allow Speaker Johnson to appoint Republican impeachment managers who would turn his Senate trial into an embarrassment to our country. The next attempt to impeach the president must be done only once Congress has taken the necessary steps to secure removal. That is the way forward.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-speaks-support-bill-restore-collective-bargaining,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Speaks in Support of Bill to Restore Collective Bargaining to Federal Workers Before House Passage,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives before passage of the bipartisan Protect America’s Workforce Act. During his remarks, the congressman praised the legislation for restoring collective bargaining rights for certain federal workers, 67 percent of whom had that right stripped from them by an executive order signed by President Trump earlier this year. Congressman Krishnamoorthi emphasized that the right to collective bargaining also protects workers from having to take forced “loyalty pledges” by a president or their political party. “Removing their limited bargaining rights doesn’t improve efficiency; it threatens the integrity of our civil service,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said on the floor. “These rights exist for one essential reason: to shield federal employees from political pressure so they serve the American people, not the agenda of any one President or political party.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-demands-answers-ice-hazardous-chemical-agents-deployed-elgin,Krishnamoorthi Demands Answers From ICE On Hazardous Chemical Agents Deployed in Elgin And Pattern Of Chemical Use Near Illinois Families,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi is demanding immediate accountability from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following reports that ICE personnel deployed hazardous chemical agents, including tear gas, and a flash-bang grenade during a December 6 enforcement operation in a residential Elgin neighborhood that sent multiple residents for medical evaluation. In a letter to Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons, Krishnamoorthi warns that the release of hazardous chemical agents near homes, children, elderly residents, and individuals with respiratory conditions “raises serious concerns about public safety and the safeguards ICE employs to prevent unintended civilian exposure.” He notes that DHS’s own 2023 Use of Force Policy requires all officers to follow constitutional standards, yet ICE’s publicly available guidance “does not detail specific procedures for the deployment of chemical irritants in residential settings” despite the clear risk such deployments pose in densely populated areas. Krishnamoorthi also underscores that the Elgin incident is not isolated, writing that it “appears to be part of a broader pattern of ICE’s use of chemical irritants during enforcement operations, including those conducted under Operation Midway Blitz.” His letter details recent deployments in Chicago neighborhoods, including Old Irving Park and Albany Park, near Funston Elementary School, and at a shopping center where “a toddler should never have to know what a tear-gas canister looks like.” The Congressman states: “Incidents like these, and now the one in Elgin, underscore the urgent need for oversight to ensure that federal enforcement actions do not endanger the safety or trust of the communities they are meant to serve.” To determine whether ICE followed proper safeguards and to ensure future operations do not put families at risk, Krishnamoorthi is demanding answers by December 24, 2025 to the following questions: What public-safety protocols and risk-assessment procedures were followed before chemical irritants were deployed in this residential neighborhood, and what criteria guide these decisions when bystanders may be present? What specific steps did ICE personnel take before, during, and after deployment to limit the risk of exposure to nearby residents, including families in surrounding homes and individuals on adjacent streets? How does ICE evaluate environmental and public health risks prior to using chemical agents, particularly in densely populated areas where vulnerable individuals may be present? What coordination occurred with local police, fire departments, EMS personnel, or public-health authorities before or after the deployment of chemical irritants? Please describe any notifications, joint planning, or post-incident communication. What follow-up procedures does ICE implement after deploying chemical agents?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-votes-no-defense-bill-citing-lack-oversight-politicization,"Krishnamoorthi Votes No on Defense Bill Citing Lack of Oversight, Politicization of the Pentagon, and Harmful Policy Riders",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi today released the following statement explaining his vote against final passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), citing the bill’s failure to impose necessary oversight and guardrails on the Trump Administration despite including several bipartisan provisions he advanced to strengthen U.S. competitiveness and national security: “Tonight, I voted to oppose the National Defense Authorization Act. While I am glad that many provisions I advanced to strengthen our competitiveness against the economic and security threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party were included, the final bill failed to provide the oversight and guardrails of the Trump Administration that our national security demands. In the face of this Administration’s escalating military actions in the Caribbean, the use of National Guard forces in our communities, and the dangerous politicization of the Pentagon, Congress cannot look the other way. The bill offers no real constraints on unilateral boat strikes, no checks on Secretary Hegseth’s politicization efforts, and folds in culture-war measures that could undermine servicemembers’ access to essential health care, including IVF treatment . I am also disappointed that language restoring collective-bargaining rights for civilian DOD employees was also removed. For these reasons, I voted no.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-ramirez-takes-first-step-towards-impeachment-dhs-secretary-noem,Congresswoman Ramirez Takes First Step Towards Impeachment of DHS Secretary Noem,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Delia C. Ramirez,R000617,ramirez.house.gov,ramirez,https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC— Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) requested that the House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan and Ranking Member Jamie Raskin conduct a complete investigation into the Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's unlawful and potentially impeachable actions. “Secretary Noem, you have misused resources appropriated by Congress and engaged in unethical behavior. You have repeatedly made false and misleading statements to Congress and to the press. And you have undermined the separation of powers and disregarded the role of Congress and the Courts. Bottom line: you LIE, act with impunity, reject checks and balances, and ignore Congress and the Courts,” said Ramirez during the hearing. “Your options are limited. You either resign, Trump fires you, or you will be impeached.” “I urge you to reconsider resignation, because I have taken the first step towards your impeachment, and called on the Judiciary Committee to open an investigation into your lawlessness,” added Ramirez, who was the first member of Congress to demand Secretary Noem's resignation, back in April, and personally handed the letter to Noem on May 14. For the full request, CLICK HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/12/15/2025/duckworth-slams-senate-republicans-after-they-pass-up-last-chance-to-save-the-aca-tax-credits-that-millions-depend-on,Duckworth Slams Senate Republicans After They Pass Up Last Chance to Save the ACA Tax Credits That Millions Depend On,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement after Senate Republicans voted to block an extension of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credit enhancements that millions of Americans depend on to afford health insurance: “Today, my Republican colleagues had a simple choice: vote yes with Democrats to help us stop health care premiums from skyrocketing or vote no and abandon their own constituents, who could be priced out of health insurance altogether.” “After forcing Americans through the longest shutdown in our nation's history to avoid dealing with this, Republicans now own the healthcare crisis to come. Millions of middle-class Americans will soon feel the pain caused by this vote in their own wallets—with the highest insurance premium spikes set to hit people in red states the hardest.” “Today’s vote was Republicans' last chance to do right by families and help extend the ACA tax credits before they expire. We could’ve stopped millions of families from the pain of paying thousands of dollars extra per month for health insurance—or losing their health care completely, but Republicans chose to do nothing. This should’ve been a no-brainer.” -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-secured-hearing-on-domestic-deployments-exposes-three-damning-revelations-from-top-trump-defense-officials,Duckworth-Secured Hearing on Domestic Deployments Exposes Three Damning Revelations from Top Trump Defense Officials,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"In first Senate hearing on Trump’s illegal deployments, Duckworth warned that Trump’s continued misuse of the military in our communities risks making Americans fear, rather than respect, our troops [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – At this morning’s U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) hearing, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) exposed three damning revelations from top leaders at the Department of Defense (DoD) and she underscored the devastating toll Donald Trump’s domestic military deployments are having on American servicemembers and citizens alike in Illinois and across the country. During her questioning of top Trump Defense officials, the Administration refused to rule out the possibility that the mission would expand beyond protecting federal property and personnel, the possibility that troops could be deployed for law enforcement functions or the possibility that the DoD would fail to provide legal protection for servicemembers who try to protect civilians from abusive federal agents. The Senator also slammed Trump for manufacturing circumstances where reasonable civilians could end up fearing the same troops they once counted on to protect them—something that neither makes America safer nor more secure. Duckworth’s full opening remarks, initial questioning and closing questioning can be found on the Senator’s YouTube. In her opening statement at the hearing, Duckworth said: “Military service involves risks. And our servicemembers accept those risks knowingly... selflessly. So we better be damn sure that the mission is the right one...that it is clear and effective...and that it serves our national security. If we stand by while this Administration pursues another irresponsible, open-ended campaign with no defined mission, no clear authorities, no set timeline and no transparent end state, we fail our troops. We fail their families. And we fail the American people. “The power to deploy troops domestically must remain exceptional, accountable and rooted in law—not in one man's judgment about what constitutes disorder.” Duckworth explained that by forcing our troops to defend Trump’s abusive federal law enforcement agents who repeatedly used excessive force against American civilians, he is forcing our heroes to make impossible decisions between upholding the Constitution by protecting peaceful protestors and executing the President’s questionable orders. “For the past two months, Illinoisans have seen DHS federal agents abusing our communities—and President Trump wanted to put our troops in the middle,” continued Duckworth. “In the face of violent federal agents repeatedly using excessive force, Trump is forcing our servicemembers to make a horrible choice: uphold their loyalty to the Constitution and protect peaceful protesters—or execute questionable orders from the President. I fear the day when Americans stop thanking our troops for their service because they’re afraid of them.” During her questioning, the Defense Department's Acting General Counsel, Charles Young, refused to commit to providing legal representation for servicemembers who intervene to stop a civilian from being wrongfully harmed by a federal agent. Duckworth underscored that law enforcement agents have a legal duty to intervene to prevent a fellow officer from using excessive force—while uniformed servicemembers have no comparable obligations, nor accompanying legal protection if they decide to intervene against a federal agent to protect a civilian. They do so at their own risk. Duckworth continued: “The courts have stopped Trump so far—finding again and again that there is no legal reason for what Trump is doing. But in his ideal world, Trump wants our professional military to defend unprofessional and abusive federal law enforcement agents. It is not ICE agents who are being attacked. It is ICE agents who were tear-gassing toddlers... Pointing loaded weapons at unarmed bystanders... Hauling preschool teachers from daycare in front of kids... And rappelling from helicopters onto apartment buildings in the dead of night to rip families from their beds and detain them for hours—just to admit later that they have no basis to file any charges. That is the terror that is happening in Chicago.” Duckworth also criticized Trump and his Administration for repeatedly trying to blur the lines between our highly trained troops and lawless federal agents, which is eroding public trust in our military. During her questioning, Duckworth pressed U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) Commander General Gregory M. Guillot, USAF, about whether the Department was ensuring differentiation between our troops and federal agents. He confirmed that he had not received any guidance or orders from the Administration on making this distinction. However, he assured that he has the authority to direct members under his command to distinguish themselves from ICE. In this year’s National Defense Authorization Act, a Duckworth-led provision was included that would require servicemembers identify themselves as part of the military when assisting federal law enforcement in the United States. As the Trump Administration continues to deploy our nation’s military into our communities to intimidate their fellow Americans, this provision ensures that servicemembers identify themselves properly—to avoid public misunderstanding about who is providing logistical support versus conducting arrests or law enforcement duties. Duckworth successfully secured this hearing in early October—weeks after she led all of her fellow SASC Democrats in calling on SASC Chairman Wicker to hold this hearing, and shortly after she blocked expedited passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in order to secure it. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-slams-senate-republicans-after-they-pass-up-last-chance-to-save-the-aca-tax-credits-that-millions-depend-on,Duckworth Slams Senate Republicans After They Pass Up Last Chance to Save the ACA Tax Credits That Millions Depend On,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement after Senate Republicans voted to block an extension of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credit enhancements that millions of Americans depend on to afford health insurance: “Today, my Republican colleagues had a simple choice: vote yes with Democrats to help us stop health care premiums from skyrocketing or vote no and abandon their own constituents, who could be priced out of health insurance altogether.” “After forcing Americans through the longest shutdown in our nation's history to avoid dealing with this, Republicans now own the healthcare crisis to come. Millions of middle-class Americans will soon feel the pain caused by this vote in their own wallets—with the highest insurance premium spikes set to hit people in red states the hardest.” “Today’s vote was Republicans' last chance to do right by families and help extend the ACA tax credits before they expire. We could’ve stopped millions of families from the pain of paying thousands of dollars extra per month for health insurance—or losing their health care completely, but Republicans chose to do nothing. This should’ve been a no-brainer.” -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-trump-is-forcing-our-servicemembers-to-make-a-horrible-choice,Duckworth: Trump is Forcing Our Servicemembers to Make a Horrible Choice,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – At this morning’s U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) hearing, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) underscored the devastating toll Donald Trump’s domestic military deployments are having on American servicemembers and citizens alike in Illinois and across the country. The Senator slammed Trump for manufacturing circumstances where reasonable civilians could end up fearing the same troops they once counted on to protect them—something that neither makes America safer nor more secure. Video of the Senator’s questioning can be found on her YouTube. Key Quotes: “For the past two months, Illinoisans have seen DHS federal agents abusing our communities, and President Trump wanted to put our troops in the middle. He wants our military to protect agents who were tear-gassing toddlers, pointing loaded weapons at unarmed bystanders, hauling preschool teachers from daycare in front of kids and propelling from helicopters onto apartment buildings in the dead of night to rip families from their beds and detain them for hours—just to admit later that they have no basis to file any charges.” “What are our troops supposed to do if they witness an agent throw a child to the ground? Do they intervene and pull the agent off the kid? Do they stand by and do nothing? Trump is forcing them to make a horrible choice: uphold their loyalty to the Constitution and protect peaceful protesters, or execute orders from the President…Our troops could be dragged into court and would be on their own to plead their case to a jury, all because their Commander in Chief put them in an unprecedented situation that they don’t regularly train for. And if that servicemember decides not to intervene, what will Americans think when they see someone in uniform—who they were taught serves to protect them—standing by as a child is harmed by one of Trump’s abusive DHS agents?” “I fear the day when Americans stop thanking our troops for their service because they’re afraid of them. We know that this Administration is trying to borrow the respected image of the military. Across the country, we’ve seen DHS agents dressing in camo and wielding military-style weapons. They are making it hard for Americans to tell the difference between abusive federal agents and professional troops. If we fail to draw a bright line between our highly trained troops and lawless federal agents, I fear our public’s trust in our military may never recover.” -30- Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-capito-introduce-bipartisan-rise-from-trauma-act-to-address-childhood-trauma,"Durbin, Capito Introduce Bipartisan Rise From Trauma Act To Address Childhood Trauma",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The legislation would expand support for children who have experienced trauma and address the cycle of violence and addiction WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), along with U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), today reintroduced bipartisan legislation to increase support for children who have been exposed to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and trauma, including witnessing community violence, parental addiction, or abuse. The Resilience Investment, Support, and Expansion (RISE) from Trauma Act dramatically increases funding for community-based efforts to prevent and mitigate the impact of trauma, and it expands training and workforce development efforts to support health care, education, social services, first responders, and community leaders to foster resilience and deliver services to heal the impact of trauma. U.S. Representatives Danny K. Davis (D-IL-07) and Bryan Steil (R-WI-01) plan to re-introduce companion legislation in the House of Representatives. Portions of the Senators’ legislation were recently signed into law by President Trump through the SUPPORT Reauthorization Act, which will extend and increase funding for: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data collection activities on ACEs; an interagency task force to establish best practices on addressing trauma; and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) National Child Traumatic Stress Network to develop and deliver mental health services in communities. Since Durbin, Capito, Duckworth, and Murkowski began working on child trauma issues together, among other provisions, they have increased appropriations for SAMHSA’s National Child Traumatic Stress Network from $47 million to $99 million today. In Illinois, this is supporting research and services at Lurie Children’s Hospital, Sinai Health, University of Chicago, La Rabida Children’s Hospital, Northwestern University, and University of Illinois at Chicago. “While we work to effectively address the root causes of violence and addiction in our communities, we must also focus on the ripple effect that exposure to violence and traumatic experiences has on our children and their future,” said Durbin. “Unaddressed trauma can harm mental and physical health, life expectancy, school success, and employment. Our bipartisan RISE from Trauma Act invests in our communities and our workforce to support children and families facing trauma so they can heal their emotional scars and build a brighter future.” “I am proud to once again address the impact of trauma on children by helping to introduce the RISE from Trauma Act. This legislation builds on the work we have done over the past several years and reflects the needs I continue to hear from West Virginians across the state,” Capito said. “By aiming to increase resources for our communities and taking steps to educate and expand our workforce, this legislation will help to prevent future substance abuse and violence, provide assistance and hope to our most vulnerable, and empower our next generation.” Nationwide, nearly 35 million children have had at least one traumatic experience, and nearly two-thirds of children have been exposed to violence. A recent study found that nearly 60 percent of the youngest children in Chicago lived in neighborhoods that accounted for 91 percent of homicides. Far too many children carry the emotional weight of community violence and other traumatic experiences, such as the daily stress of abuse or neglect at home, a parent battling addiction, or an incarceration or a deportation of a loved one. Trauma can create stress on the developing brain and force children into constant “survival mode”, impacting the way they process fear or form healthy relationships. Decades of research, including from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have established the link between a child’s exposure to trauma, its effect on neurological and behavioral development, and long-term negative outcomes. In fact, studies show that individuals who have experienced six or more ACEs have a 20-year shorter average life expectancy, and those who have experienced four or more ACEs are ten times more likely to use illicit narcotics and 12 times more likely to attempt suicide. Yet only a small fraction of the children in need of support to address trauma receive such care. The RISE from Trauma Act builds upon the conclusions published in a 2019 GAO report requested by Durbin and Rep. Davis and calls for increased resources and trauma-informed workforce for communities to support children who have experienced trauma. The RISE from Trauma Act would expand the trauma-informed workforce in schools, health care settings, social services, first responders, and the justice system, and increase resources for communities to address the impact of trauma. Specifically, the bill: Creates a new, $600 million HHS grant program to fund community-based coalitions that coordinate stakeholders and deliver targeted local services to address trauma; Creates a new HHS grant program to support hospital-based trauma interventions, such as for patients that suffer violent injuries, to address mental health needs, prevent re-injury, and improve long-term outcomes; Increases funding for the National Health Service Corps loan repayment program, in order to recruit more mental health clinicians—including from under-represented populations—to serve in schools; Enhances federal training programs at HHS, the U.S. Department of Justice, and the U.S. Department of Education to provide more tools for early childhood clinicians, teachers, school leaders, first responders, and community leaders; and Reauthorizes four critical federal programs that Durbin and Capito helped to pass in 2018: the Interagency Task Force on Trauma-Informed Care, National Child Traumatic Stress Network, the CDC’s ACEs Data Collection program, and SAMHSA’s Trauma Support in Schools grant program. The legislation is endorsed by the following organizations: American Academy of Pediatrics, Futures Without Violence, Campaign for Trauma-Informed Policy and Practice, American Psychological Association Services, National Association of School Psychologists, National Head Start Association, Big Brother Big Sisters of America, YWCA, Trust for America's Health, National PTA, American Psychological Association Services, and Zero to Three. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-condemns-president-trumps-racist-comments-towards-immigrants-in-senate-judiciary-committee-executive-meeting,Durbin Condemns President Trump’s Racist Comments Towards Immigrants In Senate Judiciary Committee Executive Meeting,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"During his opening remarks, Durbin again called on DHS Secretary Noem to testify in front of the Committee, urged Chairman Grassley to consider a subpoena if she refuses to appear WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, delivered an opening statement during today’s Senate Judiciary Committee executive business meeting condemning the Trump Administration’s failing immigration enforcement tactics and the diversion of necessary resources away from drug trafficking, gun violence, and other threats that put our nation’s security at risk—all while pardoning drug kingpins, including former Honduras President, Juan Orlando Hernández. Durbin also again called on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem to testify in front of the Committee. Durbin also spoke about President Donald Trump finally admitting that he used the slur “shithole countries” to denigrate Haiti and African nations during a 2018 meeting in the Oval Office that Durbin attended. Trump admitted to this comment during his rally in Pennsylvania on Tuesday. Key Quotes “Consider President Trump’s extrajudicial killings of alleged drug traffickers… Since September, the Administration has carried out at least 22 attacks, killing at least 87 people. The President and Secretary Hegseth allege they are killing ‘narco-terrorists’—but the Administration refused to provide any evidence of an imminent threat justifying lethal force. If these are actually drug traffickers, law enforcement should stop the boats, confiscate and destroy the drugs, and prosecute the traffickers. The Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel has tried to provide legal cover for these summary executions in a deeply flawed legal opinion, which it refuses to make public to the American people.” “At the same time, President Trump has pardoned Juan Orlando Hernández, the former President of Honduras who was convicted of orchestrating a massive conspiracy to flood our country with illegal narcotics… This follows the President’s pardon of another drug kingpin, Silk Road founder Ross Ulbricht. He created the largest online black market for illegal drugs in our nation’s history.” “Meanwhile, President Trump is targeting communities that didn’t vote for him, like Chicago. Instead of arresting dangerous murderers, rapists, and terrorists, as promised, the Trump Administration is rounding up tens of thousands of immigrants with no criminal history. In Illinois, a mere two and a half percent of immigrants arrested by ICE between September 8 and October 15 had been convicted of a violent crime. Sixty-six percent of the people detained and deported had no criminal history whatsoever.” “The President is making no secret about his true motivation. I will never forget my 2018 meeting in the Oval Office when the President rejected a bipartisan immigration deal because he didn’t want any more immigrants from ‘s***hole countries.’ There were some questions [about whether] he actually said that for years. He not only said it, he bragged about it at a rally in Pennsylvania… Two Republican Senators claimed I was lying when I confirmed [the comments]. Now, President Trump isn’t hiding his true feelings… This is racism, plain and simple.” “I want to thank Chairman Grassley for committing to bring Secretary Noem before the Committee before the end of the year. Unfortunately, Secretary Noem has stiff-armed the Committee, refusing to commit to a hearing date. Mr. Chairman, you have the power to issue a subpoena. It will be bipartisan. It is time for Secretary Noem to end her galivanting across this country and come before this Committee and be held accountable by the American people.” Video of Durbin’s opening statement is available here. Audio of Durbin’s opening statement is available here. Footage of Durbin’s opening statement is available here for TV Stations. Durbin then spoke against the nomination of Darin Smith, nominated to be U.S. Attorney for the District of Wyoming. Mr. Smith has no criminal or federal court experience; nor has he ever tried a case to verdict, judgment, or final decision. Mr. Smith could not list one significant litigated matter on his Questionnaire submitted to the Committee. “Seemingly, Mr. Smith’s only qualification is his loyalty to right-wing MAGA orthodoxy. He was on the Capitol grounds on January 6. As my colleagues remember, a violent mob assaulted police officers, destroyed government property, and attempted to thwart our democratic process. Mr. Smith baselessly claimed that the hundreds of Capitol Police officers who risked their lives that day were guilty of ‘massive incompetence.’” “Without evidence, he claimed that rioters who breached the Capitol were victims of entrapment. Mr. Smith has stood by his radical and dangerous claim that Vice President Pence should not have certified the results of the 2020 election because there were ‘imperfections’ in the process.’ Mr. Smith also falsely claimed that the FBI agents who interviewed him regarding his presence at the Capitol were sent by former Representative Liz Cheney and ‘her goons’ after he demanded that she be censured by the Wyoming Republican Party.” “I am also troubled by Mr. Smith’s stunning lack of judgment. He baselessly accused Vice President Harris of being a murderer and refused to retract this slanderous comment. He attacked Republican Senators for finding credible the sexual assault allegations made by multiple women against Alabama Republican Senate candidate Roy Moore and claimed—again without evidence—that the allegations were ‘probably false.’” “I urge my colleagues that there must be some standard of qualification. To give this kind of power to an individual that has no background, none whatsoever when it comes to criminal or federal court experience, there’s no excuse—please vote no.” Video of Durbin’s remarks on the nomination of Mr. Smith is available here. Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the nomination of Mr. Smith is available here. Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the nomination of Mr. Smith is available here for TV Stations. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-statement-on-republicans-voting-to-raise-health-insurance-premiums-for-tens-of-millions-of-americans,Durbin Statement On Republicans Voting To Raise Health Insurance Premiums For Tens Of Millions Of Americans,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Richard J. Durbin,D000563,www.durbin.senate.gov,durbin,https://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today released the following statement after Senate Republicans rejected Senate Democrats’ proposal to extend the Affordable Care Act’s enhanced premium tax credits to ensure millions of Americans could continue to afford their health care plans in 2026: “Need I remind my Republicans colleagues that their votes have real consequences for the people of this country? “Shame on Republicans for, once again, voting to push millions of their own constituents off their health care. Senate Republicans’ vote today was the latest action in their 15 year crusade to demolish the Affordable Care Act despite the law putting affordable, quality health care within reach for tens of millions of Americans. “I want to work with my colleagues, on both sides of the aisle, to make the Affordable Care Act better. But we need buy-in from congressional Republicans to move forward. I hope that my Republican colleagues, after today’s failed vote to extend the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits, will finally understand the urgency of this health care crisis and make a real effort to protect Americans’ health care.” Shortly before the Senate held its vote on extending the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits, Durbin spoke on the floor about protecting Americans’ health care coverage. In his remarks, he underscored that Congress must swiftly address the rising cost of health care to ensure that Americans are not priced out of their insurance. He spoke about a constituent working at a diner in Chicago who relies on the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits to afford her insurance, but she is worried that she will not be able to afford her insurance come January 1. “I met a waitress at a Chicago Loop restaurant during breakfast last Sunday. She’s 63 years old, and she spent her life as a waitress. It’s taken its toll on her physically. She was in tears as she described to me about what is going to happen to her if we fail to act the right way on this legislation. She’s going to see her health care bill more than double - $300 or $400 more per month. She doesn’t know how she can do it [pay for her insurance], and I don’t either. That’s what we have to address first,” Durbin said. “The question today is whether the Senate will extend the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits... If we fail to extend these tax credits, that waitress and 22 million Americans will begin to pay double or triple for their insurance in three weeks, including 500,000 people living in Illinois. More than four million Americans will not be able to afford their insurance at these high rates and will be forced to forgo health coverage for next year,” Durbin said. “Senate Democrats have sounded the alarm bell about the need to prevent this catastrophe. We have told the stories of our constituents who called our offices crying because they are afraid that they will not be able to afford their health care next year. We have shared reports from the farmers, small businesses owners, and rural hospitals who rely on these tax credits,” Durbin said. “Every Senate Democrat is united behind a plan just to extend the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits and ensure continued access to quality, affordable health coverage. Republicans are not united behind any plan. They haven’t been for 15 years… You’re [Senate Republicans] in the majority. We need 13 of you today to join us and show the bravery that Senator McCain did in that early morning hour [when he voted to save the ACA],” Durbin concluded his remarks. Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here. Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here. Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations. To combat the rising cost of health care, congressional Democrats implemented ACA enhanced premium tax credits through the American Rescue Plan in 2021 and extended them in the Inflation Reduction Act through the end of 2025. As a result of these enhanced premium tax credits, the number of Americans covered on the ACA’s marketplace increased from 11 million in 2020 to 24 million this year. Despite millions of Americans relying on these tax credits, congressional Republicans have refused to act to extend them, consequently threatening health care coverage for Americans that cannot otherwise afford to pay for their premiums. This is in addition to the nearly $1 trillion in cuts congressional Republicans made to Medicaid in the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which was passed at the direction of President Trump in order to fund tax breaks for billionaires. Congressional Democrats have been pushing to make quality health care more accessible for millions of Americans for more than 15 years. The ACA, championed by Democrats, changed the landscape of health care in the U.S. by expanding and ensuring coverage. Prior to the passage of the legislation in 2010, insurance companies routinely denied patients coverage if they had pre-existing conditions, preventing millions of Americans from securing an affordable health care plan. -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://bost.house.gov/2025/12/bost-votes-to-strengthen-national-security-bolster-support-for-troops,"BOST VOTES TO STRENGTHEN NATIONAL SECURITY, BOLSTER SUPPORT FOR TROOPS",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today voted for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, legislation that strengthens America’s national defense, advances President Trump’s peace through strength agenda, and supports the men and women who serve our nation in uniform. The bill authorizes $900.6 billion for national defense programs, provides a 3.8% pay raise for servicemembers, allocates $6 million for Scott Air Force Base hangar improvements, secures our southern border, and ends the woke policies and DEI mandates that have distracted from military readiness. “Supporting our troops and keeping America safe must always come before politics,” said Bost. “This national defense funding backs President Trump’s peace through strength approach, secures the southern border, reins in wasteful spending, and gets rid of the DEI and woke policies that have no place in our military. It ensures our servicemembers have the resources they need to do their jobs and I’m proud to support legislation that puts our national defense and our troops first.” . The Fiscal Year 2026 NDAA includes: . - $900.6 billion for national defense programs - 3.8% pay raise for all servicemembers - $6 million for Scott Air Force Base hangar improvements - Over $1 billion to combat drug trafficking and support border security operations - Fully funds National Guard and active-duty deployments to assist Border Patrol at the southwest border - Permanently repeals of all Department of War DEI offices, programs, and training . ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/foster-sessions-introduce-bipartisan-bill-requiring-government-agencies-label,"Foster, Sessions Introduce Bipartisan Bill Requiring Government Agencies to Label Content Generated with Artificial Intelligence",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC — Today, U.S. Congressmen Bill Foster (D-IL) and Pete Sessions (R-TX) introduced the Responsible and Ethical AI Labeling (REAL) Act, a bipartisan piece of legislation that would require federal agencies and officers to clearly label any content published via official government channels that is generated or manipulated using generative artificial intelligence. Specifically, the bill would require labeling on any AI-generated images or videos published by an agency, or any AI-generated text that is not reviewed by a human prior to publication. “In an age of disinformation, Americans should be able to trust that information coming from official government sources is legitimate and based in reality. With the rapid proliferation of AI-generated content, there must be clear guidelines to ensure those at our federal agencies and in our nation’s highest office are not using AI in a way that could purposefully or inadvertently mislead the American public,” said Congressman Foster. ""I’m proud to Co-lead the REAL Act, which brings greater transparency and accountability to the federal government’s use of artificial intelligence. Our bill requires federal agencies and officials to clearly disclose when text, images, audio, or video shared with the public in their official capacity has been generated or manipulated using AI. This legislation protects agencies’ ability to use AI internally while ensuring that anything released publicly is clearly and consistently labeled. It is a commonsense step to maintain trust and strengthen transparency in government communications,” said Congressman Sessions. A copy of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-uses-oversight-hearing-press-colleagues-extend-aca,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Uses Oversight Hearing to Press Colleagues to Extend ACA Tax Credits and Protect Illinois Families from Rising Costs,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — During today’s joint Oversight Committee hearing on lowering health care costs, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Oversight Subcommittee on Health Care and Financial Services, pressed his colleagues to take immediate action to prevent steep premium hikes for Illinois families and to block deep Medicaid and ACA cuts that would destabilize hospitals across the state. First, Congressman Krishnamoorthi warned that allowing the enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits to expire at the end of the year would create an immediate affordability crisis. Without action, half a million Illinoisans will see sharp premium increases, with rural families facing hikes of more than 100 percent. “If we don’t extend these tax credits, in Illinois alone half a million people will see their premiums go from $260 a month to $464 a month—an almost 80 percent increase. Rural families will be hit even harder, with premiums rising by more than 100 percent. People will not stop needing medical care. Safety-net and rural hospitals will pay the price, and communities will be pushed into health care deserts unless we act.” Congressman Krishnamoorthi also highlighted the separate, longer-term threat posed by the Republican so-called “Big Beautiful Bill,” which contains sweeping Medicaid and ACA cuts. Drawing on his visits to Loretto Hospital in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood and Franklin Hospital in Benton, he noted that hospital leaders warned the cuts would force program reductions, staff layoffs, and potential service shutdowns. With eleven Illinois hospitals already at risk of closure, these cuts would accelerate an emerging statewide crisis. Finally, Congressman Krishnamoorthi underscored the human stakes of failing to extend the ACA tax credits by sharing the story of Krystle, a mother from central Illinois whose three medically complex children rely on ACA subsidies to access care. “With the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits, she can buy coverage for her three children at $800 a month. If we let those credits expire, her premiums will nearly double to $1,400 a month, trapping her in a coverage gap. The only alternative would be leaving her job just so her kids can get health coverage. No parent should ever face that choice.” Congressman Krishnamoorthi urged Congress to move quickly to extend the ACA tax credits and reject cuts that would shutter hospitals and deepen health care deserts. He emphasized that both challenges are preventable, and that decisive bipartisan action is needed to protect Illinois families from higher costs and reduced access to care.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://lahood.house.gov/2025/12/lahood-supports-fy26-national-defense-authorization-act,LaHood Supports FY26 National Defense Authorization Act,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), to fund and support our military, their families, and key national security priorities. ""The FY2026 NDAA strengthens our national security, gives the men and women serving our nation the resources they need, and enhances our ability to counter the malign actions of bad actors around the globe,"" said Rep. LaHood. ""With ever-evolving threats and foreign adversaries working every day to undermine the United States, this bill makes certain our military and intelligence community are equipped with the tools they need to handle any threat. I was proud to vote for this bill and I will continue to support the brave servicemembers who safeguard our freedoms."" Background: The bill codifies 15 of President Trump's Executive Orders focused on strengthening our military and authorizes $900 billion for national defense to provide our troops with the tools and resources they need to remain the world's premier fighting force. It includes provisions to counter the hostile actions of our adversaries, invest in cutting edge technology to ensure military preparedness, and improve the quality of life for our servicemembers with a 3.8% pay raise and improved benefits for military families. The NDAA also includes the Fiscal Year 2026 Intelligence Authorization Act, which authorizes funds to support our Intelligence Community, broaden Congressional oversight, protect the U.S. from counterintelligence threats, and expedites the Intelligence Community’s adoption and implementation of emerging technologies. Rep. LaHood's Priorities included the FY2026 NDAA: Advanced AI Security Readiness Act Requires the Director of the National Security Agency to develop guidance to protect artificial intelligence (AI) technology from adversaries by engaging with AI developers and leveraging industry expertise to address vulnerabilities and threats. The BIOSECURE Act Prevents U.S. federal funds from supporting biotechnology companies tied to foreign adversaries. The Outbound Investment Transparency Act Creates targeted restrictions for outbound U.S. investments that would fund military and advanced technology capabilities of foreign adversaries. Congressman LaHood also supported provisions to authorize local, state, and federal agencies, including the DHS and DOJ, with new authority to take counter-drone measures for large scale public gatherings or events, critical infrastructure, and correctional facilities.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-durbin-introduce-legislation-improve-medical-device-recall-process,"Schakowsky, Durbin Introduce Legislation to Improve the Medical Device Recall Process",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) reintroduced legislation to improve the medical device recall process in order to protect patients. The Medical Device Recall Improvement Act would require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to establish an electronic format for medical device recall notifications to streamline communication between device manufacturers, FDA, hospitals, and health care professionals. It also would require manufacturers to include in recall notices information about how the recall could affect patients with medical devices and instruct hospitals and health care professionals to provide that information to patients. The legislation was inspired by Illinois constituents who had shared their personal stories about medical harms and other concerns related to recalled devices. “Americans deserve to know that the medical devices they depend on for their health and wellbeing are safe and effective,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “That’s why I’m proud to work with Senator Dick Durbin on the Medical Device Recall Improvement Act. Our bill ensures that all medical device recall information is sent to the Food and Drug Administration electronically, rather than through physical mail, so providers and patients can receive critical updates faster. With more than 1,000 recalls issued each year affecting millions of devices, timely communication saves lives. This important legislation makes sure patients get the information they need when they need it.” “Millions of Americans rely on a medical device to stay healthy. But if their medical device is recalled, patients have the right to know as soon as possible so that they can understand the risks and consult with their health care provider,” said Senator Dick Durbin. “The Medical Device Recall Improvement Act is an obvious solution to ensure that medical device manufacturers, FDA, and health providers can quickly share up-to-date information with patients.” Specifically, the Medical Device Recall Improvement Act would: Require FDA to establish an electronic format for medical device recall notifications; Require medical device manufacturers to use the electronic format to contact FDA and hospitals and health providers; and Require medical device manufacturers to include information in recall notifications about the risks of the recalled device, and instruct hospitals and health providers to distribute the information to patients. FDA oversees the regulation of almost 200,000 medical devices in the U.S., from contact lenses and contraceptive devices to prosthetics and pacemakers. According to the American Medical Association, more than 32 million Americans have an implanted medical device, and countless others use them throughout their lives. These devices improve and save lives. However, medical devices that are recalled for safety issues or manufacturing defects can cause severe harm to patients. Medical device manufacturers communicate recall information to FDA and health care professionals through letter and email. This extends the amount of time it takes FDA to review recall information, determine a recall classification, and communicate the recall to the public. It also extends the amount of time it takes hospital coordinators to track and pull recalled medical devices from inventories. As a result, patients are often the last informed about a recall—if ever. According to Consumer Reports, most Americans are not aware of recalls for their products, including medical devices. The Medical Device Recall Improvement Act has earned endorsements from Public Citizen; National Center for Health Research; Device Events; and UCSF Team for High Value Care. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-statement-vote-against-fy26-ndaa,Schakowsky Statement on Vote Against FY26 NDAA,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky released the following statement after voting against final passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (FY26 NDAA): ""Today, I once again voted against passage of the Republican’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). While I support several important components of this legislation, I could not in good conscience vote for the bill in its entirety. The FY26 NDAA authorizes over $890 billion in additional Pentagon spending. That is $8 billion more than the Pentagon itself said it needed. Our greatest security threats have no military solutions, and it is time our budget reflects that. We must instead make the investments in health care, education, housing, clean air and water, and public transit that Americans deserve. “Further, this legislation removed House-passed provisions that would lead to In vitro fertilization (IVF) coverage under TRICARE and restore collective bargaining rights to civilian employees. I was also discouraged to see that the bill still discriminates against the transgender community. With this year’s illegal military strikes against innocent boats in the Caribbean, the last thing we need to do is give the Pentagon even more power. ""Although I opposed this bill, there were several bright spots, including a 3.8% pay raise for all service members, the repeal of the 1991 and 2002 Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF), and a new requirement for military personnel to display the name of the military service they are affiliated with when supporting civilian law enforcement activities in our communities. ""Despite these important provisions, this legislation exacerbates an already over-bloated Pentagon budget and funds several defense policies which will not make people any safer. This is why I could not support its final passage."" ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/schneider-bipartisan-legislation-halt-counterfeit-imports-advances-us-house,SCHNEIDER BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO HALT COUNTERFEIT IMPORTS ADVANCES IN US HOUSE,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — The House Ways and Means Committee today advanced bipartisan legislation authored by Reps. Brad Schneider (IL-10) and Blake Moore (UT-01) to halt counterfeit and pirated imports into the United States. The bill, H.R. 4930, changes how Customs and Border Protection (CBP) can share the packing and shipping information of suspected counterfeit products with key intellectual property rights holders, transportation carriers, and e-commerce platforms. This unanimously bill passed the Ways and Means Committee. “Counterfeit goods undercut American businesses, threaten jobs, and endanger public safety,” said Rep. Schneider. “We need to help CBP disrupt counterfeit trafficking networks and better safeguard our economy and communities. I’m proud that this commonsense legislation – co-authored by my colleague Rep. Blake Moore – has received bipartisan and unanimous support in the Ways and Means Committee. I urge the Speaker to bring it to the floor for a vote.” “The global economy is flush with threats from counterfeiters, IP thieves, and black-market traders,"" said Rep. Moore ""This bill will unlock real-time intelligence sharing between CBP and the private sector that will help shut down these networks and cut off the flow of counterfeit products before they reach American shores. This will safeguard American businesses and protect our citizens from dangerous counterfeit goods. I’m thrilled that this bill has generated strong bipartisan support and unanimously passed through the Ways and Means Committee today."" Background: While CBP’s job is to identify counterfeit products at U.S. ports of entry and flag for businesses when they suspect a particular shipment might be counterfeit or pirated, they are currently only allowed to provide limited information about shipments in question. CBP is not permitted to share packing materials (such as the external container in which goods are shipped), images, labels, invoices, or packing slips that identify the product’s country of origin, with key parties such as property rights holders, carriers like DHL, UPS, or FedEx, and e-commerce platforms like Etsy and Amazon. This bill would provide explicit authority for CBP to share all relevant information with companies, carriers, and platforms where a shipment in question contains suspected counterfeit or pirated products. The bill also broadens the range of parties with whom CBP can disclose such information, including shipping companies and e-commerce sites where the product in question may be sold. Under this bill, CBP would be allowed to share: Shipping labels and tracking numbers Sender and recipient addresses Invoices and manifests Outer packaging images, like courier tape, weight notations, and box markings Container-level packaging information and data This means CBP could flag patterns of behaviors such as: Repeat senders across multiple shipments “Drop addresses” used by organized counterfeiters Common entry ports or air routes Example: A counterfeit electronics shipment from Shenzhen repeatedly enters via the Port of Los Angeles, using the same fake return address and tracking patterns. With this bill, CBP can share these patterns with carriers like UPS, DHL, and FedEx to intercept future parcels earlier in the pipeline. The Moore-Schneider bill is supported by the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, Alliance for Safe Online Pharmacies, American Apparel & Footwear Association, Automotive Anti-Counterfeiting Council, Baby Safety Alliance, International AntiCounterfeiting Coalition, International Trademark Association, Partnership for Safe Medicines, Pharmaceutical Security Institute, and Transnational Alliance to Combat Illicit Trade. You can read the full bill here. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://sorensen.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-defense-bill-sorensen-highlights-wins-rock-island-arsenal-and-il,"House Passes Defense Bill, Sorensen Highlights Wins for Rock Island Arsenal and IL-17",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Eric Sorensen,S001225,sorensen.house.gov,sorensen,https://sorensen.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) is proud to announce major victories for the Rock Island Arsenal and communities across Illinois’ 17th Congressional District in this year’s national defense legislation, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Congressman Sorensen voted to support the defense bill after securing critical provisions to protect jobs at the Rock Island Arsenal, support the 182nd Airlift Wing in Peoria, and strengthen Central and Northwestern Illinois. “We must do everything we can to put our servicemembers and military families first. These investments give our neighbors the support they deserve and help safeguard the jobs that drive our local economy,” said Congressman Sorensen. “Improving childcare, protecting the C-130 fleet and investing in the Arsenal all deliver meaningful results for Central and Northwestern Illinois.” Earlier this summer, Sorensen announced a series of major IL-17 victories included in the House-passed NDAA. Those provisions strengthen the Arsenal, support working families, and reinforce our national security. Key wins for IL-17 and the Rock Island Arsenal include: Congressman Sorensen’s Arsenal Workload Sustainment Act, which incentivizes private industry to partner with arsenals by giving preference to public-private partnerships in Army contracting, creating a more predictable, sustained workload to protect and create jobs. The bill bans the Army’s funding to restructure the Rock Island Arsenal’s Army Sustainment Command (ASC) and Joint Munitions Command (JMC), until they provide a plan that includes a timeline and information about any job cuts and the impact to our readiness. Authorizes $50 million for the Rock Island Arsenal’s Child Development Center to consolidate the existing facilities and make upgrades to meet DoD guidelines and safety requirements, ensuring that eligible families at the Rock Island Arsenal have a safe, modern facility for childcare. Authorizes $5 million in design funding for a forging equipment annex at the Rock Island Arsenal’s Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center to support a wide array of weapon systems across all of the services. The Army will be required to provide more information about upcoming changes tied to its Army Transformation Initiative—ensuring communities like those around the Rock Island Arsenal are informed and prepared. To protect the civilian workforce, the bill requires DoD to justify major reductions in force by considering readiness, effectiveness, and fully burdened costs and notify Congress. The Department of Defense is directed to explore public-private partnerships at arsenals and other key military industrial sites, opening the door to local innovation and economic growth. An extension of the Army’s online real estate tool pilot program that the Rock Island Arsenal participates in. The bill ensures the Air Force maintains at least 271 C-130 aircraft and prohibits the reduction of C-130 aircraft assigned to the Air National Guard, preserving critical operations tied to the 182nd Airlift Wing in Peoria. Big wins that benefit our servicemembers and national security include: 3.8% pay raises for all military personnel. Authorizes funding for new and improved barracks, dormitories, child development centers, and family housing. Requires any troop deployed in the U.S. to clearly identify their service branch. Repeals the 1991 and 2002 Iraq and Gulf War Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs). Reauthorizes the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) and extends a limitation on recognizing Russian sovereignty over any part of Ukraine. Authorizes funding for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative and the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative. While Congressman Sorensen voted in support of the NDAA, he strongly opposes the inclusion of the provision that discriminates against LGBTQ+ servicemembers at the military service academies and Republican leadership’s decision to remove protections for collective bargaining. Congressman Sorensen will keep working to advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and union workers on the Armed Services Committee. The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-cruz-cantwell-moran-criticize-widening-of-military-aircraft-safety-loophole-in-2026-ndaa,"Duckworth, Cruz, Cantwell, Moran Criticize Widening of Military Aircraft Safety Loophole in 2026 NDAA",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.] - U.S. Senator and Ranking Member of the Senate’s Aviation Subcommittee Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined fellow U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) leaders Ted Cruz (R-TX), Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) in issuing a joint statement criticizing the inclusion of a provision in the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) widening a loophole for military helicopters that threatens the safety of the flying public. Almost a year after the fatal crash near DCA, the Senators—who are working to close that loophole completely with their bipartisan ROTOR Act—join with the Families of Flight 5342 and the Lilley family in voicing serious concern that the NDAA, as written, would make American skies less safe. “Almost a year after 67 lives were lost when a military helicopter hit American Airlines flight 5342 over the Potomac River, the NDAA fails to make the skies safer. As drafted, the NDAA protects the status quo, allowng military aircraft to keep flying in DC airspace under different rules and with outdated transmission requirements,” said the Senators. “This comes as Pentagon data shows a spike in military aircraft accidents since 2020. The families of the victims deserve accountability. The NDAA should be stripped of this new loophole and instead include the ROTOR Act -- a bipartisan bill that closes the dangerous exemption that allows military aircraft to operate in domestic skies without communicating their position. We must act decisively to prevent future tragedies,” the Senators said. The Families of Flight 5342 issued a statement in solidarity with the Senators: ""Over the past year the Families of Flight 5342 have united to push for meaningful aviation safety reforms so that no other families suffer the same devastating loss. While we appreciate congressional attention to rotary-wing operations in the National Defense Authorization Act, Section 373 does not resolve the visibility and coordination failures that contributed to the tragedy. As written, it leaves the status quo largely unchanged. Section 373 applies only to training missions — even though military helicopters in the National Capital Region fly a wide range of missions that routinely place them near commercial aircraft. It focuses narrowly on TCAS-compatible alerts rather than true visibility and broadcast requirements, and it preserves broad national-security exceptions similar to those in place at the time of the Flight 5342 collision. These gaps mean the provision does not meaningfully mitigate the risks that proved fatal for our loved ones. We urge Congress to strengthen Section 373 by requiring real, enforceable visibility standards for all military aircraft operating near civilian traffic. And we continue to call for swift passage of the bipartisan ROTOR Act, which provides the comprehensive, nationwide reforms needed to ensure that a tragedy like Flight 5342 never happens again."" Tim and Sheri Lilley, whose son, Sam, was the First Officer of Flight 5342 also issued a statement: “As it is currently drafted, the FY 2026 National Defense Authorization Act has several unsatisfactory provisions related to aviation safety. As such we call on members to reject this language. At a minimum language should become law as soon as possible to require ADS-B out. The national security waivers allowed by this draft are also deeply concerning. As has been highlighted by public statements of several Members of Congress and Administration officials, the national security waivers that have been abused by operators in the DC area are problematic and subject to abuse. This bill addresses that with a “window dressing” fix that will continue to allow for the setting aside of requirements with nothing more than a cursory risk assessment. Safety that depends on exemptions cannot be the foundation of a secure airspace system. The flying public and all those that utilize our airspace deserve better than what this bill provides. The January 29 midair accident that took 67 souls, including our son AA5342 First Officer Sam Lilley, showed us exactly what is at stake. Congress now has a choice: strengthen this provision and protect the traveling public or leave in place the same vulnerabilities that have already cost too many people their lives.” -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-urges-senate-republicans-not-to-pass-up-last-chance-to-save-the-aca-tax-credits-that-millions-depend-on,Duckworth Urges Senate Republicans Not to Pass Up Last Chance to Save the ACA Tax Credits That Millions Depend On,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Tammy Duckworth,D000622,www.duckworth.senate.gov,duckworth,https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement ahead of tomorrow’s vote to extend the Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credit enhancements that millions of Americans depend on to afford health insurance: “Tomorrow, my Republican colleagues will have a simple choice: vote yes with Democrats to help us stop health care premiums from skyrocketing or vote no and abandon their own constituents, who could be priced out of health insurance altogether.” “After forcing Americans through the longest shutdown in our nation's history to avoid dealing with this, Republicans can’t run away from the healthcare crisis they created any longer. If they vote no, millions of middle-class Americans will feel the pain in their own wallets—with the highest insurance premium spikes set to hit people in red states the hardest.” “Tomorrow’s vote will be Republicans' last chance to do right by families and help extend the ACA tax credits before they expire. We can stop millions of families from the pain of paying thousands of dollars extra per month for health insurance—or losing their health care completely, but only if Republicans finally get off the sidelines and vote to help us. This should be a no-brainer.” -30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z