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Writer's pictureAshley Parker

Bipartisan Legislation Passes in the First Floor Session of the Term

Updated: Dec 5, 2022

Today’s floor session was a productive one, passing two pieces of legislation: The Lobster Act and the Defending Ukraine Sovereignty Against Russia Act.


Democratic Senators Peters, King, Padilla, Warren, and Menendez spoke in support of the Defending Ukraine Sovereignty Against Russia Act along with Republican Senators Cornyn, Rubio, Sasse, and Scott. While addressing the Senate, Senator Sasse said:


“The beauty of this Ukraine bill is that it serves as a fervent reminder that there are so

many principles that [the Senate] can still come together on. . .No amount of partisanship

or domestic strife can erode our united belief that we have a like mind of freedom,

sovereignty, and justice at home and abroad.”


In a roll call vote, the bill passed with 32 in favor of the bill.


Following a passionate speech outlining the extent of Russian aggression in Ukraine, Padilla said “The Ukrainians really need our support right now, and I’m really glad that the majority of Congress was able to see that and pass that bill.”


Senator Paul, who voted against passing the Defending Ukraine Sovereignty Against Russia Act, said “[The bill] is reckless spending. It’s too out of control. We have enough problems here and here we are allotting all of this money overseas to a cause that could potentially backfire.”


The Lobster Act, which empowers small fishing businesses, was next on the agenda. Republican Senator Murkowski and Democratic Senators Peters, Warren, and King spoke in support of the bill. The bill passed unanimously with 35 votes in favor of its passage.


Senators were happy to see the Lobster Act pass. Senator Cornyn said “this is a great win for small businesses across the United States, especially in my home state of Texas.” Senator Kramer agreed, saying “I’m happy to be able to support small businesses.”


Senators voted to adjourn the session before discussing the Protection of Marriage Act. Paul explained “There was consensus among the Republicans that we wanted nothing to do with that bill, and I think the Democrats picked that up.”

Senator Hirono, Majority Leader, said “I believe that it was a very smooth session. I’d like to publicly acknowledge Mitch McConnell for his negotiations and willingness to create the UCA agreements.” Generally, Senators showed commendable unity and cooperation in this session.

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