Press Releases
Hawley/Scott Press Release
​
Senate Press Release
November 9th, 2022
​
Good afternoon,
We are shocked by not only the egregious and disgusting behavior of the Democratic Party, but extremely disappointed in the way they continue to treat concerned senators within the Republican Party. After Monday’s productive committee sessions, one would assume that both of our parties had come together and were ready to act as a cohesive unit for the American people. Yet after the display of bipartisanship and overall welcoming approach from the Republican Party, the Democrats decided to flip the switch on us in an unnecessary and ridiculous matter.
After entering the open Democratic Caucus, we were immediately greeted with screams from the Biden Administration, attempting to force us to leave, which was then followed by untrue and unfounded claims that Senator McConnell was racist. When Senator Hawley quietly asked what was going on as a concerned person and member of the Senate, he was immediately yelled at to mind his business and not get involved. This ridiculous display of childishness and immaturity is only becoming more common, which is unacceptable and unpractical. While we are actively working towards solving the problems which Biden and his senators have created for the American people, their unwillingness to be open to honest conversation and dialogue is shocking, yet unsurprising at this point.
We are also extremely disgusted and concerned about the Biden Administration. The President was exposed once again during his debacle of a “Press Conference” held by his administration. President Biden, in his typical state of incompetence, proceeded to only answer Democratic Senators’ questions to the point where members of the press had to interject without being called on just to get a question in. Once they had concluded the time for questions, Senator Hawley proceeded to loudly ask if the Biden Administration stands by the First Amendment. Senator Hawley was then immediately admonished and attacked in a brutal and unprofessional manner, without his question being answered at all.
Senator Hawley later found out from his colleagues that he too was being accused of being racist when he was merely asking about the first amendment. There is nothing racist about asking about the First Amendment. The Democrats cannot get away with attempting to silence members of Congress by making untrue and ridiculous claims like this. The Democrats run their campaigns based around cancel culture and use it to shut out beliefs outside of their own. The First Amendment is a right to all Americans and must be protected at all costs.
It is truly laughable and ridiculous the theatrics Biden and his senators have to pull in an desperate attempt to mislead the American people, to the point where they question our sacred constitution. Perhaps if Biden and the Democratic Party actually show some decency and common sense, they would finally wake up and work with us to help solve America’s wide range of issues plaguing our beautiful society today.
Sincerely,
Senator Josh Hawley, Senator Rick Scott.
Gillibrand Press Release
​
November 7th, 2022
Dear Senators, Members of the Executive, Esteemed Lobbyists, and Members of the Press,
I wanted to clarify the comment made about me by Senator Sasse in committee today. Senator Sasse sent me his bill asking me to be a co-sponsor, I read the bill and while I agree with the majority of its contents I personally disagree with Section 3 Subsection 2. I disagree, not because I think that no-knock warrants should be legal, but I think instead that there should be no legal exception to no-knock warrants. This is highlighted when he states “federally outlaw the use of no-knock warrants unless there is concrete proof that such an action would be warranted after thorough investigation.” I would be a co-sponsor if this section stated “federally outlaw the use of no-knock warrants.” I understand his misunderstanding, as reading back my text I was vague and unclear, which is why I am clearing up what I meant now. I do fully support the passage of this bill, in the name of bipartisanship, even though I am not a cosponsor. I will take the time now to urge all of my colleagues to vote to pass this bill on the floor, it is much needed and it will save so many Americans.
Sincerely,
Senator Gillibrand
Super PAC Press Release
​
November 2nd, 2022
Dear Senators, Members of the Executive, Lobbyists, and the Media,
I am proud to announce the creation of the super PAC Saving Lives of the Unborn and Helpless by Senator Blackburn, Senator Cramer, and Senator Thune. The purpose of this organization is to advocate for the lives of the unborn. Moreover, advocating for the right to life by every individual regardless of sex, race, and disability.
​
Thank you,
Senator Thune, Senator Cramer, Senator Blackburn
Scott Press Release
​
Senate Press Release
​
November 2nd, 2022
Good Evening,
​
On behalf of many of my fellow senators, we would like to express our thorough discontent and disappointment towards the actions of President Joe Biden and his Democratic Senators at the bill signing session today. Myself and my Republican colleagues were shocked at the general unpreparedness, lack of communication and professionalism of President Biden in particular. Not only did he continue his baffling and embarrassing streak of refusing to make himself available for questioning at the conclusion of every bill signing session, he immediately left once more without addressing a single one of my fellow senators and reporters' many questions and concerns. This, combined with his continued lack of activity and general absence from the public eye, has made us seriously concerned over his capability and durability to serve the American public to his best ability. We call on President Biden and his Cabinet to make themselves available in the future to justify their incompetent decision making and leadership choices.
​
We would also like to convey our growing disillusionment and anger towards the Democratic Party as a whole. They were significantly late to the bill signing session today and in the process wasted valuable time which would have been used to continue our bill writing as we continue to create laws for a stronger and healthier America. Many of us had to return to our constituents and the tardiness of the Democrat senators resulted in us having less time to talk to and interact with our people, which is unacceptable as we are all responsible for helping our citizens.
​
I and my fellow senators call on Joe Biden and his senators to seriously reflect on their actions and consider the position they are in. It is of no coincidence that their numbers in the polls have fallen to record lows. Perhaps if some improvement on their part is shown, we can be able to all work together to save America and more effectively tackle our challenges.
​
Sincerely,
​
Senator Rick Scott, Senator Mitch McConnell, Senator Lindsey Graham, Senator John Thune, Senator Kevin Cramer, Senator John Barrasso, Senator Marsha Blackburn, Senator Ted Cruz, Senator Josh Hawley, Senator John Cornyn, Senator Marco Rubio, Senator Mitt Romney, Senator Rand Paul, Senator Tom Cotton, Senator Lisa Murkowski and Senator Shelley Capito
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
Cornyn Press Release
November 1st, 2022
Senate Press Release
​
November 1, 2022 Good Afternoon,
I wish to speak on the matters that happened in the Judiciary Committee this past Monday. The Democrats have made statements about the bill proposed titled the LOOP Act, which would unjustly strip Americans of their Second Amendment rights.
The License Operators Only Permitted Act would have removed the three-day mandatory background check period, removing incentives for federal law enforcement to conduct a background check in a timely manner. Not only would this bill not stop the issue of firearms falling into the hands of criminals, but it would have opened the possibility that more Americans would be unjustly denied their rights. I proposed amendments to fix these issues, and they consistently opposed any sort of bipartisan change to the bill. This includes simple markups from Senator Cruz that would have properly cited the US Code within the Democrat's own bill.
The Democrats have attempted to slander me by arguing I have flipped on the issue of guns. This is a lie. I have always been a consistent supporter of people’s rights to self-defense while also putting reasonable restrictions to ensure criminals and dangerous individuals cannot misuse firearms. This bill would do neither. I also think it is disturbing that Senator Schumer, a radical pro-abortion and pro-COVID lockdown Democrat, insinuates that Republicans do not care about the children. Not only is this flatly untrue and deeply divisive, but it is hypocritical for a Democrat who supports abortion up until birth and shutdowns that pushed American children out of the classroom and into poverty.
Us Republicans believe the issue of gun violence is a serious issue, and we are willing to work with Democrats to advance legislation addressing this issue. We have done it before and we can do it again. However, if the Democrats continue to push radical bills that don’t solve issues and strip people of their rights, then I will vehemently oppose it if I cannot change it.
​
Sincerely,
​
​
​
Senator From Texas
​
​
​
​
Progressive Caucus Press Release
​
Press Briefing by the Progressive Caucus
​
October 27, 2022
​
I hope all is well. We, Senator Tammy Baldwin, Kirsten Gillibrand, Maizie Hirono, Amy
Klobuchar, Ed Markey, Bernard “Bernie” Sanders, Chuck Schumer, and Elizabeth Warren, are
forming the Progressive Caucus. We have been and consistently will continue to be for the
people and have decided to combine our efforts. We are united in our fight for working
Americans and will not back down. The Progressive Caucus will fight to bring material change to American families.
Some of the caucus’s top priority will include
- Healthcare Reform
- Marriage Equality
- Codifying Roe v Wade
- Gun Control
- Labor Rights
- Increasing the Minimum Wage
- Improving America’s Infrastructure
- Providing free or subsidized college
- Pre-k and childcare for every American child
With your help, we can support progressive Senate candidates and issues throughout the
country.
​
​
​
​
​
​
Gillibrand Press Release
October 24th, 2022
Good Afternoon,
I first want to say that I am absolutely thrilled that my “Time to Process Bill” has made it
through to the floor. Today, I would like to discuss this bill and respond to Senator Cornyn’s
press release.
To give my side on what occurred in the Judiciary committee today, I was working in
close contact with Senator Cornyn and Senator Cruz before committee began. I was doing this to
ensure that my bill would garner bipartisan support. Our senate has been extremely partisan, with
everyone voting along party lines and I wanted to make sure that going into committee I would
understand what amendments were important to my Republican colleagues so that we could have
a productive and meaningful session. Right off the bat I was willing to compromise by adding
Senator Cornyn’s police/nonprofit funding amendment, with the stipulation that 51% of funding
would go to non-profits and 49% would go to the police (for processing the backlog of rape kits
and to investiage sexual assuant cases). This passed with a striking 13-2 majority. I really wanted
to work with my Republican colleagues as this is something I am extremely passionate about.
In response to the third paragraph in Senator Cornyn’s press release, Senator Hirono
simply made an amendment to clarify what was being said in the bill which is that we are
encouraging states' statute of limitations to be at a minimum of seven years. This is in no means
coercing them to do so as he made it seem. I am willing to work with him and the rest of the
Republican party to modify this bill so that it can pass, but I am done with the political theater
that my Republican colleagues continue to partake in. This bill is extremely important to be and I
want it to be taken seriously.
Sincerely,
​
​
Senator from New York
Cornyn Press Release
October 24th, 2022
​
Good Afternoon,
Today I would like to discuss some of the actions that happened today in the Judiciary, specifically surrounding Senator Gillibrand’s bill.
This bill titled the “Time to Process Bill”, would have, in its original form violated the 10th Amendment by illegally interfering in the state legislative process, which was also improperly cited when proposed. Instead, the Democrats came to their senses briefly and voted for my amendment, which would have instead added more funding for rape kits and provided support for victims of sexual assault as well as our police officers to process, investigate, and catch sexual predators and sexual assault cases. This amendment is a common sense change and would do a great amount to support victims of sexual violence. This along with Senator Cruz’s amendment to strike the problematic portion of the Democrat’s bill should have made this an easy win for both sides and for the American people.
However, the Democrats lost their senses by amending bac in parts of the bill that infringed on state sovereignty, hence making their bill legally dubious and unnecessarily divisive. I am also disappointed that the Democrats voted down my amendment encouraging states to seek harsher penalties for rapists, including capital punishment. Democrats, why do you choose the side of rapists over their victims?
My hope is that before this bill comes to the floor, it can be fixed and modified more so it can pass unanimously. I hope Democrats come back to their senses and we can create positive change the American people want us to create.
​
Sincerely,
​
​
Senator from Texas
Blackburn Press Release
October 21st, 2022
​
Good Afternoon,
Regarding my vote in favor of the “Defending Ukraine Sovereignty Against Russia Act of 2022”, I would like to explain why this decision is a counter to past decisions to vote against sending Ukraine Aid. In the bill brought to our floor in May, I voted against sending the $40 billion to Ukraine. As it was expressed to me after today's session, some are concerned about the change in my vote today from less than 6 months ago. In short, my answer is bipartisanship. I completely support sending aid to Ukraine. My hesitation beforehand involved concern about the money usage of what we send, and making sure that the amounts given to specific areas are actually used for these intended purposes. I was additionally concerned about the amount of money we planned to send at the time. Regardless, my supporting vote today goes to express to my Democratic colleagues that I hear their concerns and I hope they can hear mine as well.
While the actions of Russia must be stopped, and I am more than willing to help to get Ukraine these resources, we have a crisis of our own right at our border. The amount of illegal immigrants flooding into our country on a daily basis continues to raise alarms to my fellow Republicans, but very few Democrats seem to accept that it is a problem. I urge Senator King to send the “Protecting our Border and Saving America Security Act of 2022”, written by Senators Cruz and Cornyn, to committee as soon as possible. It is necessary that we are able to discuss the increased security and more needed immediately available to our border patrol. I would also like to thank Senator King for sending the “Freedom Flying Act of 2022”, written by Senator Sasse, towards the committee as this will be crucial for our national security as well, and I greatly encourage Senator Padilla to place it on their agenda for Monday.
With all stated, I strongly implore all Senators to consider the severity that our open border has had in regards to human trafficking, increased drug flow, and so much more thast places our citizens in much higher danger. I congratulate Senator Menendez for the success of his bill today, and I reach to offer more bipartisan attempts that can address both parties' wants and needs.
​
Best regards,
​
Senator Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee
Staffer Press Release
Judiciary Committee Press Release
October 17, 2022
Dear Senators, Members of the Executive, Lobbyists, and the Media.
Today I am going to be addressing all of you as a Staffer of the Democratic Caucus. More specifically, I will talk about what has happened today at the Judiciary committee. For lack of better words, it was a mess and chaotic (mainly on the part of the actions from some Republican Senators). These senators were prioritizing childish antiques to avoid two bills being considered. With silly comments such as the room ‘being too cold,’ then the next minute complaining about the room being ‘too hot.’ It is clear to me, as well to everyone else, these comments have no substance but with the intent of avoiding authentic debate. I am not even complaining how they didn’t agree with a bill, rather extremely disappointment with their approach to such a serious topic.
To those senators during that committee meeting, how would you feel if your constituents saw YOUR behavior? How do you think they would feel to see their senator acting like a teenager and whining about the most minute details? You, knowing exactly who you are, ought to be ashamed of yourselves.
I would also like to make it clear this is not a Democrats versus Republican situation, at least I hope it’s not as superficial as that. You need to realize the amount of power you hold as senators. We shouldn’t be butting heads with each other simply because the other person wears red, and you wear blue. The same ideology applies for the other side.
Please, going forward with future judiciary committee meetings (and all other meetings for that sake), let us conduct ourselves in a way our constituents would be proud of you.
Regards,
Khaled – Staffer for the Democratic Caucus.
​
Democrats Press Release
Senate Press Release
October 17, 2022
Good Evening,
​
After robust debate in today’s meeting of the Judiciary Committee, the Democratic members of the committee are pleased to announce the passage of S. 112, the “Protection of Marriage Act”; a bill to codify every American’s civil right to interracial and same-sex marriage. The bill passed with bipartisan support, resulting in a 9 to 4 vote in favor. We were happy to have Texas Senator John Cornyn’s support on the bill and hope to see continued bipartisan support when the bill is up for a vote on the floor. In light of the recent Supreme Court decision to overturn the near 50-year precedent that is Roe v. Wade, it is our duty to protect this right and codify it into law. We believe that the freedom to marry whomever one chooses is an inalienable right that is inherent to the American identity, and we expect this to be echoed by both Democrats and Republicans when the bill reaches the floor.
​
Sincerely,
​
Senator Amy Klobuchar, Senator Ed Markey, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Senator Gary Peters, Senator Catherine Cortez, Senator Mazie Hirono, Senator Chuck Schumer, Senator Jon Tester
​
Senator Graham Press Release
Senate Press Release
October 17, 2022
Good evening, Senators,
On behalf of my fellow Republican Senators in the Budget and Domestic Affairs Committee, we were thoroughly disheartened by the actions of the Budget Committee Democrats today. Despite the challenges we faced in last week’s meeting, my fellow Republicans and I entered this week’s meeting hoping to see a renewed interest in cooperation and a greater respect for procedure than they let on before. And yet, we were instead graced with a patent disregard for our participation.
As was specified in the Democrats’ own rulebook, forced through last week despite Senator Warren’s lacking participation, all instances of proxy voting must be made aware at least two hours prior to our meeting, so as to give time to prepare for the absence of senators. Knowing this, we received zero word from the Democrats on their absences by the agreed time and proceeded under the assumption that there would be no proxy voting. Little could we have known the Democrats would insist on doing exactly that, having sent only a last-minute message regarding their absences. When this was brought up in Committee, Committee Chair Senator Cardin informed us that he had apparently been made aware privately of these absences, and that doing so was sufficient, providing no evidence in the process.
Not only was this a breach of formal procedure, but this private discussion forbade any Republicans from making proper adjustments. The Budget Committee Democrats, it would seem, care little about the input or participation of any Republicans in their legislating, and in doing so are ignoring the voices of millions of Americans for whom we are tasked with representing. Despite our protests to their disregarding of the rules, Senator Cardin decided on his own that the very meaning of the rules was his to determine, not allowing it be put to a vote as is proper senatorial procedure.
Needless to say, we kindly request that the Budget Committee Democrats acquiesce to the voice of the American people, and allow Republicans a say, if any at all, on the language of the committee’s rules moving forward. We formally request, simply, that Quorum Rules be amended to specify along party lines that Republicans be present, at the very least providing for a single Republican, even if only our Ranking Member Senator Collins, or simply increasing Quorum to nine members, as is typical of other committees. We know this is something that can be accomplished as the rules require a simple majority to be changed. However, until then, I don’t foresee much productive legislation being passed.
Regards,
Senator Lindsey Graham, Senator John Thune, Senator Kevin Cramer, Senator John Barrasso, Senator Lisa Murkowski, Senator Shelley Moore Capito, and Senator Susan Collins
​
Moderate Caucus Press Release
Senate Press Release
October 12th, 2022
​
Good evening fellow senators, members of the executive, and lobbyists,
On behalf of the Moderate Caucus, we are issuing this press release to outline our goals for this senate session. As many of you know, we are dedicated to creating long-lasting and collaborative legislation that represents all Americans. In the current atmosphere of division within American politics, we feel that our caucus will play a vital role in the unification of parties.
With equal Republican and Democrat representation, the Moderate Caucus can function as a liaison for both parties to foster support for bipartisan legislation. Our main objective is to combat the animosity already present within our senate to promote a more productive congress.
Some of our legislative focuses include:
-
Uplifting our veterans and supporting our troops
-
Advocating for small businesses
-
Improving on current federal education standards
-
Decreasing the unemployment rate
-
Invigorating our economy and addressing inflation rates
While this list does not encompass every legislative focus within the senate, we feel many senators share our goals and wish to join our efforts. We look forward to working together in a civil manner to help make the legislative process run smoothly for both parties.
Kindly,
Co-chair Joe Manchin, Co-chair Lisa Murkowski, Senator Susan Collins, Senator Kyrsten Sinema, Senator Mitt Romney, Senator Gary Peters, and Senator Rick Scott
Padilla Press Release
Senate Press Release
​
October 11, 2022
I am appalled by the racist, dehumanizing remarks by Los Angeles City officials and leaders that were made public earlier this week. As a father, I am horrified that these disgusting remarks were made toward a child.
At this time, hate speech and hate crimes rise all around our nation and these racist comments have only deepened the pain our communities have endured. It is disheartening to see the city officials behave this way. The people of Los Angeles deserve better.
I call on Los Angeles City Councilmembers Nury Martinez, Kevin DeLeon, and Gil Cedillo to resign and take full responsibility for their disturbing comments and for the pain they have caused the city and an innocent child.
At this critical time, it is imperative for the city and the nation that we continue to build unity and solidarity in all our communities and recommit to the fight for equity and justice for all.
-Alex Padilla
Murkowski Press Release
​
Senate Press Release
​
October 10, 2022
Good Afternoon All,
On behalf of my Republican Senators in the Budget Committee, we were dismayed at our committee meeting today. I, for one, am always willing to work with anyone in Congress regardless of one’s political party. I know my Republican colleagues feel the exact same way. However, the lack of bipartisanship that was shown today is a sign that changes need to be made.
Senator Warren was not present at the meeting all day as we proposed possible amendments to the rules of the committee. As soon as Senator Warren showed up, there was an immediate call for a vote on the rules. Senator Warren did not listen to anything as she was not present at the meeting. We simply asked to compromise on a quorum and a control of the press issue. It was a very simple request that was essentially not recognized. A quorum call constitutes 8 people, we were simply asking there to be 9 people because that would require a Republican Senator to vote in the way of the Democrats, ensuring bipartisanship for our committee.
Another noteworthy factor is that we were not heard today. The Democrats shunned our potential thoughts and ideas to amend the rules. There was no real conversation or intellectual discourse to try to come to a conclusion. The rules felt forced and lacked discussion.
The future of the United States is bipartisanship and the Democrats failed to do that today. We are writing to you today to ensure that our voices are heard and that the future of the United States is to represent the people and not just one side of politics. The United States needs people that will work together and not against each other. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Lisa Murkowski and the Republicans of the Budget and Domestic Affairs Committee