Tag: Sen

  • A much-deserved ‘thank you’ to Sen. Mitch McConnell | WADHAMS | Opinion








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    Dick Wadhams


    For most of U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell’s 18-year tenure as the Senate Republican Leader, he was vilified as an “establishment” do-nothing by Tea Party and MAGA activists.

    Throughout that time, whether he was the minority leader or the majority leader, he was the master of Senate rules who did seek compromise with Democrats when he needed to get something passed. But he also was a fierce partisan who took no prisoners on the Senate floor or in Senate races across the nation.

    McConnell epitomized the saying by an unknown ancient philosopher “politics ain’t bean bag.”

    After Republicans won a solid Senate majority of 53-47 in 2024, McConnell stepped down as the Republican leader. He is the longest serving Senate leader in history. 

    During those 18 years, he served twice as Senate minority leader from 2007 to 2015 and from 2021 to 2025, and he was Senate Majority Leader from 2015 to 2021.

    If there was one thing that united both Senate Democrats and many conservative activists was their frustration with McConnell’s leadership style — but for much different reasons. Senate Democrats were often flummoxed by his mastery of arcane Senate rules that made him a formidable partisan foe on the Senate floor. Ironically, conservative activists thought he was too accommodating to Senate Democrats and did not fight hard enough.

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    Nothing defines McConnell’s effectiveness and steely resolve as majority leader more than what happened when U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia suddenly died in February 2016.

    President Barack Obama, in his final year as president, quickly nominated Merrick Garland, who served on the Washington, D.C. Court of Appeals, to succeed Scalia. Obama described Garland as a moderate judge who should be agreeable to both parties.

    Majority Leader McConnell made it clear to Obama there would be no action in the Senate on the Garland nomination during the heated 2016 presidential election year. He said the American people needed to have a say in who would replace Scalia by electing a new president to succeed the term-limited Obama, and the new president then could put forth a new nomination in 2017.

    Democrats howled, but McConnell remained firm and unmoved. The Garland nomination died on the Senate vine when Donald Trump was elected president in 2016, which allowed him to nominate Neil Gorsuch in 2017 who was serving on the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver.

    McConnell went on to get 235 federal judges confirmed who were nominated by President Trump, including two more Supreme Court justices, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett, which created a 6-3 conservative court majority.

    But it all started with McConnell’s hardball on the Senate floor keeping the Scalia seat open throughout 2016. Had Hillary Clinton defeated Trump in 2016, she would have filled all three of those open seats on the court. As is often said, elections do have consequences.

    In conjunction with the Republican speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Paul Ryan, McConnell moved Trump’s landmark tax-cut legislation into law.

    Trump had no more prominent or effective an ally than McConnell when it came to getting judges approved and legislation passed, but their relationship eventually broke down over Trump’s behavior during the Jan. 6, 2021, violent attack on the U.S. Capitol and Trump’s obsession the 2020 election was fraudulent and stolen from him.

    Beyond his leadership in the Senate, McConnell was just as effective in helping to elect other Republicans to the Senate. Before he became the Republican leader, he chaired the National Republican Senatorial Committee whose sole reason to exist is to help elect Republicans.

    More often than not, Republican candidates who lost during McConnell’s tenure were outside the mainstream of their states and squandered winnable races. Who can forget the Republican candidate who had to declare “I am not a witch” or the one who talked about “legitimate rape.”

    When former U.S. Rep. John Thune, who lost a Senate election in 2002, decided to challenge the formidable Senate Democratic leader Tom Daschle in South Dakota in 2004, there was doubt among many Republicans in Washington, D.C. Thune could win. They felt he could only keep the race close and prevent Daschle from raising money for other Democratic candidates around the nation.

    McConnell was the assistant Republican leader in 2004, and he strongly believed Thune could win and devoted himself to that cause along with Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist at the time.

    McConnell was right. Thune upset Daschle, which was the first time a Senate leader was defeated for reelection in 52 years. McConnell’s support was no small part of that victory.

    Ironically, McConnell’s leadership successor is now Senate Majority Leader John Thune.

    Thank you, Sen. Mitch McConnell.

    Dick Wadhams is a former Colorado Republican state chairman who managed campaigns for U.S. Sens. Hank Brown and Wayne Allard, and Gov. Bill Owens.  He was campaign manager for U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune in 2004.



    As we reflect on the achievements and progress made in recent years, it’s important to acknowledge the role that Sen. Mitch McConnell has played in shaping our nation’s future. Throughout his time in office, Sen. McConnell has demonstrated strong leadership, unwavering dedication, and a commitment to serving the American people.

    From pushing through crucial legislation to advocating for important causes, Sen. McConnell has proven time and time again that he is a true statesman who puts the needs of his constituents first. His tireless efforts have helped to improve our economy, strengthen our national security, and protect our values and freedoms.

    On behalf of all Americans, we want to extend a much-deserved ‘thank you’ to Sen. McConnell for his service and dedication to our country. Your hard work and perseverance have not gone unnoticed, and we are grateful for all that you have done to make America a better place.

    Thank you, Sen. McConnell, for your leadership, your integrity, and your unwavering commitment to the American people. We are truly fortunate to have you representing us in the Senate, and we look forward to seeing the great things that you will continue to accomplish in the years to come.

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  • Sen. Britt continues to pursue anti-immigration agenda, introduces POLICE Act


    Last week, the Laken Riley Act, a piece of legislation introduced by U.S. Sen. Katie Britt, R-AL, passed the House of Representatives before being sent to the Oval Office where it is expected to be the first bill signed into law under the new Trump administration. The bill would require U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials to detain any undocumented migrant arrested for offenses as minor as shoplifting before they are even charged with a crime

    Now, Britt is looking to add onto the provisions of the Laken Riley Act with a new bill, the Protect Our Law Enforcement with Immigration Control and Enforcement (POLICE) Act of 2025, which she introduced on Monday alongside U.S. Sen. Ted Budd, R-NC.

    When it passed, the Laken Riley Act included an amendment which added assaulting a law enforcement officer to the list of crimes which ICE is required to detain an undocumented immigrant for. In that vein, the POLICE Act would explicitly make the assault of a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or other first responder by an undocumented individual a “deportable offense.”

    “The American people want to make sure our communities and our friends and neighbors are safe,” Britt said in an official statement on Monday. “The passage of the Laken Riley Act was a big step forward in helping achieve this goal, but there is so much more that needs to be done, including passage of the POLICE Act. I think all Americans should be able to agree that if you break our laws after coming here illegally, you should be quickly removed from our nation. Senator Ted Budd’s and my legislation would ensure our brave law enforcement officers, firefighters, and first responders are strongly protected.” 

    Sen. Budd also spoke in support of the legislation.

    “One of the best ways we can support law enforcement officers, and protect the public, is by deporting dangerous people who do them harm. If a migrant commits the crime of assaulting an officer or other first responder, they should be subject to immediate deportation. Our lawmakers must always back the men and women who protect and serve our communities. We must act on this vital proposal,” Budd said.

    Just days into the new Trump administration, Sen. Britt has already been one of the staunchest supporters of the president’s anti-immigration agenda. 

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    In addition to the Laken Riley and POLICE Acts, Britt is also a cosponsor of the Justice for Victims of Sanctuary Cities Act, a bill which would require states and municipalities to waive any protections of undocumented migrants as a condition of receiving federal grant dollars.

    Britt has also introduced the WALL Act to appropriate $25 billion “to finish building a wall on our southern border without raising taxes on U.S. citizens or increasing the national debt.” According to Britt, the bill would be funded by closing loopholes, eliminating access to social services for undocumented migrants, and fining individuals who immigrate illegally or overstay their legal visas.



    In a latest move to push forward his anti-immigration agenda, Sen. Britt has introduced the POLICE Act in Congress. This proposed legislation aims to increase cooperation between local law enforcement agencies and federal immigration authorities, further empowering them to enforce immigration laws.

    Critics argue that the POLICE Act would lead to racial profiling and erode trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement. They believe that this bill would only perpetuate fear and discrimination among immigrants, ultimately harming public safety.

    Sen. Britt, however, defends his stance by stating that the bill is necessary to uphold the rule of law and protect American citizens from potential threats posed by undocumented immigrants. He argues that the POLICE Act is crucial in ensuring the safety and security of the nation.

    As the debate over immigration reform continues to heat up, it remains to be seen whether the POLICE Act will gain enough support to become law. Stay tuned for further updates on this controversial legislation.

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    #Sen #Britt #continues #pursue #antiimmigration #agenda #introduces #POLICE #Act

  • Sen. Cassidy wants to expand school choice 




    Louisiana U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy joined Tim Scott, R-South Carolina, to lead two dozen Republican colleagues in introducing the Educational Choice for Children Act. The intention of the bicameral legislation is to expand educational freedom and opportunity for students, the USA Today network reports. 

    The legislation provides a charitable donation incentive for individuals and businesses to fund scholarship awards for students to cover expenses related to K-12 public and private education. U.S. Representative Adrian Smith, R-Nebraska, introduced an accompanying legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. 

    The act as written would provide $10 billion in annual tax credits to taxpayers, which would be administered by the Treasury Department. If approved, the measure would set a base amount for each state and then further distribute the credits on a first-come, first-serve basis.

    Read the full story. 





    Sen. Cassidy wants to expand school choice

    Sen. Bill Cassidy is pushing for an expansion of school choice options for families across the country. Cassidy believes that parents should have the ability to choose the best educational opportunities for their children, whether that be traditional public schools, charter schools, private schools, or homeschooling.

    In a recent statement, Cassidy emphasized the importance of empowering parents to make decisions about their children’s education. He argued that expanding school choice would increase competition among schools, leading to improved outcomes for students.

    Cassidy’s proposal includes increasing funding for school choice programs, such as vouchers and tax-credit scholarships, as well as promoting policies that allow for greater flexibility in education spending. He also aims to eliminate barriers that prevent families from accessing the school of their choice.

    While some critics argue that expanding school choice could lead to increased segregation and inequality, Cassidy maintains that parents should have the right to make decisions that they believe are in the best interest of their children.

    As debates around education policy continue to heat up, Cassidy’s push for expanded school choice is sure to be a hot topic of discussion in the coming months. Stay tuned for updates on this important issue.

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  • Dems Worry Sen. Whitehouse Considering Vote for RFK Jr


    Wanted to share some information on the RFK Jr. nomination before the Senate.

    It probably won’t surprise you that RFK Jr., along with Tulsi Gabbard, are among the few Trump nominees who might actually not get confirmed. But I’m told that one senator who Democratic senators and health care advocates have real concerns about is none other than Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). To be clear, Whitehouse isn’t confirmed as voting for Kennedy. But he appears to be actively considering it. (Ed Note: WTF?)

    Why? I’m told that there appear to be two reasons: One is that Whitehouse and Kennedy are personal friends. They were law school roommates at UVA and that seems to have been the beginning of a lifelong friendship. There are also specific issues with Rhode Island’s health care system that apparently need regulatory flexibility from HHS. That seems to be a real issue. But it hasn’t been enough of an issue to shift the state’s senior senator, Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI), who remains firmly opposed to Kennedy’s nomination.

    Whitehouse isn’t the only Democratic senator not firmly locked down. There are also concerns about John Fetterman (D-PA) and Bernie Sanders (I-VT). But observers seem fairly confident that both will oppose Kennedy.

    Whitehouse is the question mark.

    Here’s why Whitehouse’s possible vote to confirm Kennedy would be of more than just symbolic importance. There’s potential Republican opposition to Kennedy both for his advocacy in favor of polio, measles and other childhood diseases but also because, at least until a few weeks ago, he was pro-choice. But the first is the real problem. Dyed-in-the-wool anti-abortion advocates like Josh Hawley (R-MO) have giving Kennedy their blessing. It’s polio and measles, stupid, to paraphrase a younger James Carville.

    Vote counters opposing Kennedy’s nomination believe there is a handful of Republicans seriously considering opposing Kennedy. But they’re unlikely to do so if one or more Democrats themselves vote to confirm him.

    In other news, Rhode Island just reported its first case of measles since 2013.

    Requests for comment from Whitehouse’s office went unanswered by time of publication.



    As rumors swirl about Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse potentially considering a vote for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in an upcoming election, many Democrats are expressing concern and dismay. Kennedy, a controversial figure known for his anti-vaccine views and skepticism of mainstream science, has sparked debate and division within the party.

    Sen. Whitehouse, a longtime advocate for environmental issues and progressive causes, has typically aligned with the Democratic Party on key issues. However, his potential support for Kennedy has raised eyebrows and prompted questions about his judgment and values.

    Many Democrats fear that a vote for Kennedy could undermine the party’s credibility and send the wrong message to voters. Some are urging Sen. Whitehouse to reconsider his position and uphold the principles of science, reason, and public health.

    As the speculation continues, the future of Sen. Whitehouse’s stance on RFK Jr. remains uncertain. Only time will tell how this potential decision will impact his reputation and standing within the party.
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  • Sen. Durbin delivers opening statement at Kash Patel’s confirmation hearing


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    Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., used his opening statement to voice his concerns about Kash Patel is he were confirmed to lead the FBI. Durbin said Patel, “traffics in debunked conspiracy theories,” and voiced his concerns about his past statements about the “Deep State.”



Today, Sen. Dick Durbin delivered a powerful opening statement at the confirmation hearing for Kash Patel, who has been nominated for a key position in the Biden administration. Sen. Durbin praised Patel’s extensive experience in national security and emphasized the importance of having qualified individuals in leadership roles. He also highlighted Patel’s dedication to serving his country and expressed confidence in his ability to excel in this new role. The hearing is ongoing, but Sen. Durbin’s remarks set a positive tone for the proceedings. Stay tuned for updates on Patel’s confirmation process. #SenDurbin #KashPatel #ConfirmationHearing #NationalSecurity #BidenAdministration

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  • Sen. Grassley delivers opening statement at Kash Patel’s confirmation hearing


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    • Now Playing

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    Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, praised the work and background of Kash Patel, President Trump’s nominee to lead the FBI, during his opening statement. Grassley said Patel had a past of “fighting unpopular but righteous causes,” and that he would face “underhanded attacks” from political opposition at his confirmation hearing.



    Today, Sen. Chuck Grassley delivered a powerful opening statement at the confirmation hearing for Kash Patel, who has been nominated for a key government position. In his remarks, Sen. Grassley highlighted Patel’s impressive qualifications and dedication to public service. He praised Patel for his commitment to upholding the rule of law and his track record of effectively navigating complex issues. Sen. Grassley expressed confidence that Patel will excel in this new role and continue to serve our country with integrity and diligence. Stay tuned for updates on Patel’s confirmation process. #KashPatel #ConfirmationHearing #SenateGrassley

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  • WATCH: Sen. Warner tells federal employees to ‘think twice’ about offer of deferred resignation


    Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., questioned Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Wednesday in his confirmation hearing for health and human services secretary.

    Watch the video in our player above.

    Warner touched on President Donald Trump’s recent offer to millions of federal employees that would let them resign and work from home through September.

    READ MORE: Trump offers all federal workers a buyout with nearly 8 months’ pay

    The senator said workers should ask themselves: “Has this individual in his business world ever fulfilled his contracts or obligations to any workers in the past?”

    Warner asked Kennedy if he’d commit to not firing any federal worker who is focused on food safety. Kennedy did not directly answer. In a later exchange, he said that “I will commit to not firing anybody who’s doing their jobs.” Warner asked if that assessment would come from Kennedy’s opinion or Trump’s agenda. Kennedy replied: “My opinion.”

    For years, Kennedy, an environmental lawyer, has spread misinformation and falsehoods about vaccines and their safety, including the heavily debunked claim that they cause autism. Kennedy has also promoted drinking raw milk, which the Food and Drug Administration says can pose a “serious health risk.” His views on these issues and others have prompted concern among health experts about his nomination.

    Kennedy, the son of Robert F. Kennedy and Ethel Kennedy, ran for president as an independent in 2024 before dropping out of the race and endorsing Trump.



    In a recent interview, Senator Warner issued a warning to federal employees considering the offer of deferred resignation. He urged them to “think twice” before making a decision that could potentially impact their careers and livelihoods. Watch the full video to hear his perspective on this important issue.

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  • Democratic Sen. Gary Peters won’t run for re-election in battleground Michigan


    Democratic Sen. Gary Peters announced Tuesday that he won’t run for re-election in Michigan in 2026, creating a pivotal open-seat election next year in one of the most tightly divided swing states in the United States.

    Peters made the announcement in an interview with The Detroit News, in which he said he wouldn’t resign but won’t seek re-election because he “never saw service in Congress as something you do your whole life.”

    “I always thought there would be a time that I would step aside and pass the reins for the next generation,” he told the paper.

    “I think this is pretty normal for everybody to say, I’ve done a job, and I’m proud of the job I did, but there are other things I want to do in my life. There are other ways that I can give back to the community.”

    Peters also released a video and press release announcing his decision.

    Peters’ decision will have implications for the fight for control of the Senate in two years and, potentially, for Michigan’s closely watched race for governor. Republicans currently hold 53 seats in the Senate, plus the tie-breaking vice presidency. Peters’ retirement in a state Donald Trump has twice won narrowly (and lost once) could add another degree of difficulty to his party’s efforts to win the majority.

    Peters has repeatedly faced tough election fights in the competitive state. So while his race would have likely been competitive if he decided to run again, the open race only raises the likelihood of a competitive Senate election in Michigan next year, when it could be one of the top battlegrounds on the Senate map.

    A big field of potential candidates for Senate and governor

    It’s unclear who might run to replace Peters from either party. To the extent people in Michigan were looking forward to 2026 elections already, much of the attention in the state has been focused right now on the wide-open race for governor, since two-term Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is term-limited.

    Whitmer said in a statement issued by a spokesperson for her political group, Fight Like Hell, that she wouldn’t seek Peters’ seat.

    “Governor Whitmer is grateful for Senator Peters’ service,” the spokesperson said. “She is proudly serving the people of Michigan as governor and is not running for this seat in the Senate.”

    Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is the only major Democrat in the race for governor right now, while Michigan state Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt is the only major GOP candidate in the race. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, a former Democrat, left the party and is mounting an independent bid.

    But many potential candidates on both sides of the aisle were expected to consider running for governor. It’s possible the opening could sway some of those politicians to decide to mount a Senate bid instead.

    On the Democratic side, possible gubernatorial contenders include Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist; former U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who moved to the state a few years ago (his husband grew up in Michigan); and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, a member of the Democratic leadership in the Senate whose influence has grown in the state after she delivered a buzzy floor speech pushing back against Republicans who claimed her party wanted to indoctrinate children.

    And the Republican side could get crowded too — there are a number of current or former GOP members of Congress who could be strong candidates if they decide to run, and candidates for governor in 2022 who may want to try to run again.

    Now that the Senate race is open, it could serve as another release valve for pent-up political ambition among Michigan Democrats and Republicans.

    GOP Rep. John James, for example, ran in two of the last three Senate elections, though it’s unclear whether he’d want to run again this year. A Republican Senate strategist keeping tabs on the race told NBC News they’re keeping an eye specifically on James, as well as former Rep. Mike Rogers (who ran in 2024) and current Rep. Bill Huizenga.

    Republican Rep. Lisa McClain, the House Republican Conference Chair, told reporters that she wouldn’t run for the Senate and that she is “happy here” in the House.

    Tudor Dixon, a political commentator who lost to Whitmer in the 2022 governor’s race, acknowledged Tuesday that she is considering entering the GOP Senate primary.

    “I appreciate the outpouring of support and am considering our future very seriously,” Dixon said on X.

    A source familiar with Buttigieg’s thinking confirmed that he is “exploring all options on how he can be helpful and continue to serve.”

    “He’s honored to be mentioned for this, and he’s taking a serious look,” the source added.

    A source close to Gilchrist made it clear that he’s considering a Senate bid too, amid the open gubernatorial race.

    “This is a pivotal time for Michigan and the country, and while he’s working with Governor Whitmer to make progress for Michigan he’s seriously considering running for this open Senate seat,” the source said.

    McMorrow told NBC News that she is looking at both the gubernatorial and the Senate races and plans to “have a number of conversations in the coming days about where I can do the most good for Michiganders.”

    Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Mich., who won her second term last fall in a Grand Rapids-area district, also is looking at the Senate race, a source close to her said.

    As for Gilchrist, if he chooses to run for the Senate instead of governor next year, the Democratic Lieutenant Governors Association is prepared to spend seven figures in the primary on his behalf, said the group’s executive director, Kevin Holst. 

    Dennis Lennox, a GOP consultant with extensive Michigan experience, noted that Sen. Elissa Slotkin enjoyed a relatively clear Democratic primary field in her successful bid to succeed Sen. Debbie Stabenow, who retired.

    “Democrats in Michigan are institutionally stronger, and clearing the field will help their eventual nominee,” said Lennox, who mentioned Buttigieg as a strong candidate.

    Lennox went on to mention James as a potential candidate for either post and wondered whether Huizenga or Rep. John Moolenaar would want to give up their House seats if James doesn’t run for the Senate.

    “There isn’t much of a Republican bench, although Michigan is one of those states where there’s perennially an outside business kind of candidate who self-funds,” he said, mentioning former RNC and Michigan GOP Chair Ronna McDaniel as a “wild card” possibility.

    Peters’ rise in politics

    Peters told The Detroit News he wouldn’t run for another public office in 2026 and is focused on finishing his Senate term.

    A former state senator, Naval Reserve officer and head of the state’s lottery, Peters arrived in Washington in 2009 after defeating a GOP incumbent in an Oakland County-area House race. He won a tough re-election in 2010 amid the Republican wave that year before winning a difficult Democratic primary after redistricting threw him into a district with another incumbent.

    He then won a campaign to replace retiring Democratic Sen. Carl Levin in 2014, earning a second term in a hard-fought race against James in 2020.

    Peters holds pivotal committee posts in the Senate, on the Appropriations, Armed Services and Commerce, Science and Transportation committees. And he served two stints leading the Senate Democrats’ campaign arm, the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. Under his leadership in 2022, Democrats expanded their majority in an election cycle many had expected would be difficult for his party.

    Two years later, Democrats lost control of the Senate. Besides losing seats in deep-red West Virginia in 2024, Montana and Ohio, Democratic Sen. Bob Casey also lost in Pennsylvania, but Democrats kept Senate seats in other battlegrounds Trump won, including Michigan.



    Democratic Sen. Gary Peters announced today that he will not seek re-election in Michigan, a crucial battleground state in the upcoming 2022 midterm elections. Peters, who has served in the Senate since 2015, cited personal reasons for his decision to step down.

    Peters, a moderate Democrat known for his bipartisan approach to governance, was facing a tough re-election battle in a state that narrowly voted for President Joe Biden in 2020. His departure leaves a significant void in the Democratic Party’s efforts to retain control of the Senate.

    In a statement, Peters thanked his constituents for their support and pledged to continue working on behalf of Michiganders until his term expires in January 2023. He also expressed confidence in the Democratic Party’s ability to field a strong candidate to succeed him.

    Peters’ decision not to run for re-election is sure to shake up the political landscape in Michigan and could have far-reaching implications for the balance of power in the Senate. As both parties gear up for what promises to be a fiercely contested election cycle, all eyes will be on Michigan as Democrats seek to hold onto their slim majority in the Senate.

    Tags:

    1. Gary Peters retirement news
    2. Michigan Senate race update
    3. Democratic Senator Peters not seeking re-election
    4. Michigan battleground state politics
    5. Gary Peters retirement announcement
    6. US Senate race Michigan
    7. Political news: Gary Peters retirement
    8. Michigan Senator Peters stepping down
    9. Democratic Party Senate candidate Michigan
    10. Gary Peters retirement decision

    #Democratic #Sen #Gary #Peters #wont #run #reelection #battleground #Michigan

  • Knoxville Mayor and WWE Hall-of-Famer Glenn Jacobs: I Would “Certainly” Support Sen. Blackburn if She Runs for TN Governor


    Today on the Guy Benson Show, guest host Todd Piro was joined by Knoxville Mayor and WWE hall-of-fame wrester Glenn Jacobs (a.k.a. Kane). Jacobs and Piro discussed his journey from the wrestling ring into the lions den of politics. Jacobs discussed his story and why he thinks that America is much better off and feels more hopeful under President Trump. Jacobs also detailed his experience at Trump’s inauguration and showed his support for Tennessee Senator Marsha Blackburn in a potential bid for Tennessee governor. Listen to the full interview below!

    Listen to the full interview:

    Listen to the full podcast:

    Read the full (automated) interview below:

    Todd Piro: His name is Glenn Thomas Jacobs. A pretty, pretty American name, right? Well, you may know by a different name. If you are one of my fraternity brothers from the late 90s, early 2000s, they are Dartmouth College, New Hampshire. You know him as WWE Hall of Famer Kane. He’s also the mayor of Knox County. Since the year 2018. Mr. Jacobs Excuse me. Mayor Jacobs, great to have you on The Guy Benson Show. How are you, sir?

    Glenn Jacobs (aka Kane): I’m doing great. Thanks for having me, Todd.

    Todd Piro: You’re seven feet tall, is that correct?

    Glenn Jacobs (aka Kane): Well, I’m actually about six eight in wrestling boots. I was a little taller, but I’m pretty tall, dude.

    Todd Piro: There you go. Nonetheless. Yeah. Six, eight, seven. I mean, we’re. We’re picking nits here. But, you know, I’ve seen you a lot on the channel recently. Haven’t had an opportunity to interview you on my program on the TV, so we’ll do it here on radio. And you have an absolutely fascinating story because, again, I’m not going to sit here and be a poser and say I’m a big WWF, WWE guy, although I do live right down the street from the headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut. But but I did, you know, grow up at a time, especially in my fraternity days, where my brothers used to gather around the TV. I mean, these are Ivy League educated cats, right? And they would sit there and they would watch you. They would watch Stone cold. They would watch all these guys and get into it. It shaped a generation. And now you’re trying to shape a generation as a politician. So how did you make that transition?

    Glenn Jacobs (aka Kane): First, you went to Dartmouth, right? Yes, sir, I heard. Yeah. Yeah. My niece actually went to Dartmouth for medical school. She’s not orthopedic surgeon, so she’s really smart. I like to say it’s a good it’s a good school. But yes, for me, the reason I got to politics, it wasn’t like a particular issue or anything like that. I had a fantastic life, great product, The American Dream. I grew up on a small farm in Missouri. My family is great. My mom and dad are hardworking folks, but we didn’t have a whole lot. We weren’t poor. And of course, that’s something to eat and a roof over our head. But nevertheless, that was about it. And from there, I mean, I was able to find something I was good at. Professional wrestling, of all things. Travel the world or fame. People provide a life for my family that I wouldn’t have thought possible. And I think that story is only possible in America. And all too often we take that for granted. I mean, I’ve traveled the world. I’ve seen other places. To me, this is far and above a superior place to live. You know, it’s the legacy in our country of, you know, just freedom and justice for all. That’s a real thing for us. Right. And I just wanted to do what I could to ensure that that go on for my grandkids and my kids. Like President Reagan said, the freedoms never more than a generation away from extinction. And I think that more people and a lot of people are standing up for more people need to stand up and ensure that we’re not the generation allows that to happen.

    Todd Piro: You mentioned Reagan. We’re in the era of Trump, and I’m looking at your story. All individuals who didn’t start out as politicians, they came from something else. And in many respects, all three of you came from the entertainment business to varying degrees. But the focus really isn’t on entertainment. It is bringing something else to the table other than the, let’s call it institutional knowledge or institutional bureaucracy of government. Why do you think that has made you successful? Why do you think it made Reagan successful and why do you think it makes Trump successful?

    Glenn Jacobs (aka Kane): Well, it is that different perspective and you can absolutely see it in this Trump administration. These first five days have been truly remarkable. They’ve almost been transformational for our country, and it’s been done in a very businesslike way. I mean, I think this time Trump learned from his first term while he was being literally persecuted as a private citizen. I learned from that. And he and his team came in with a game plan this time. And they often hear about presidents in the first hundred days and how important it is and all that stuff. Well, they take it to heart. And I mean, they have just done things that, you know, you wouldn’t have never thought possible before. But it was all strategy and all planning, which is something that you learn in business.

    Todd Piro: You mentioned kids and grandkids. Do you think that years from now when history books are written that literally this week will be written about in history books where probably not my kids, my kids are young, but I think, you know, the books are already written. Do you think their kids, my grandkids will read about this week? January of 2025 as the day that America changed.

    Glenn Jacobs (aka Kane): For.

    Todd Piro: The weak and changed.

    Glenn Jacobs (aka Kane): Man it should be. I don’t think there’s any doubt about that. I just, you know, everything from tackling the border and immigration crisis to strengthening American sovereignty, to righting injustices, all these different things that have been done in a way. And it just keeps on getting better. I mean, transparency. You know, how many years have people been begging for the JFK files to be declassified? And it doesn’t happen for decades. And then in the Trump administration, second Trump ministration three days and bam, there it is. And, you know, people think, well, that’s no big deal. It’s a huge deal. You know, it’s a huge deal because government classifies so many documents and, you know, so many of them shouldn’t be classified. It causes a lack of transparency. And that’s been addressed. And right now, it’s kind of a symbolic way. But I think going forward, it it’ll be even more more in that vein. So absolutely, I think. Yeah, it’s going to change the country and I really think that it’s going to get the country back on the right track. When so many of us were very concerned that we were about to go off the rails.

    Todd Piro: We’ve addressed the policy of this week, but you are also there attended Trump’s inauguration in D.C.. You know, human to human. What was that like?

    Glenn Jacobs (aka Kane): Yeah. There was so much excitement. So many people that had supported the president in many cases from the beginning. And, you know, part of the reason I think that the elitist left hates Trump so badly is because, you know, I consider myself I’m just an average person, man. You know, I was fortunate enough and very blessed to have a great career and do some really cool stuff. But in the end, you know, I’m just a dude. I’m just a guy. And that’s what Trump is, you know? And I think that’s part of the reason that the elites just despise him is because when they look at him, they see us, they see flyover country. You know, he’s not one of those like, rich dudes that that puts on airs or anything like that. You know, he’s just himself. And that gives him, you know, in wrestling and in politics the ability to connect with people. It’s intangible and you can’t teach it, but it’s one of the most important things. In fact, I would argue it is the most important thing for success in both areas. And it’s just something that some folks have and some folks don’t. Trump’s got it and he’s got it in spades. And again, I think that’s why, you know, people keep higher ups in the in the Democrat Party have been trying to figure that out. And they can’t and they never will. But that’s why people understand what that’s why they loved him so much.

    Todd Piro: I think you touched upon something really, really interesting. And it’s a general topic that we address a lot, this elites versus non elites. And I think we look at and say, elites look down upon, not elites. But I think you looked at it from a different perspective and that’s important. Elitist, almost celebrate the fact that they’re not regular dudes. And that does two things. It’s almost like a self-fulfilling prophecy. They can never let themselves be around or be comfortable with that concept of just being a dude. And they have to continuously sort of always one up or two up or three up you whether it’s in terms of of knowledge policy or just their approach to the world and what Donald Trump does. We mentioned it earlier in the show, Common sense. It’s all about common sense. Don’t overthink things. You know, there are criminals that are illegally in our country. So what does Trump do? Gets rid of this. We have oil underneath our feet. So what does Trump do? Drills for it. And these are just two examples, but it drives the elites crazy that regular people are succeeding and regular people are voting for this because it almost shatters their view of the world, which I don’t know. I’m not an elite. Glenn, I don’t understand your thoughts.

    Glenn Jacobs (aka Kane): Yeah, Yeah. Well, whatever percent agree, I’m not an elite either. But I think a lot of it is just that. Wanting to run everybody’s lives and believing that you are smarter in that kind of paternalistic attitude that you know better and, you know, you’re literally have been put in a position, you know, anointed by God to tell everybody else what to do. And, you know, my my political political philosophy is basically to maximize individual freedom. The people know how to run their lives better than some bureaucrat in Washington, D.C. does. Right. When it comes to the education of our kids, you know, they know better how to what their kids need than some faceless drone at the Department of Education in Washington, D.C.. And, you know, a lot of this obviously goes I think goes back to the progressive era. You know, and experts and technocrats should be running everything that’s not that’s not America. That’s completely un-American. And if nothing else, what has happened this week with with Trump and everything he’s done so far is really a lot of that. And that attitude has been overturned. You know, obviously, you know, sometimes it feels like we’re in a movie and these folks are just going to sit back on the heels of it all happen. At some point, they’ll come back out swinging. But, man, it feels good right now that I mean, seriously, we all keep on saying it, but it feels like America is back in a big way.

    Todd Piro: Let’s switch before we let you go from America to specifically the great state of Tennessee. Senator Marsha Blackburn appears to be the clear frontrunner for Tennessee governor, That according to a Trump pollster. You’re the state mayor of Knox County there, which is where Knoxville is located. If my Wikipedia search, I just did while doing the radio hit with you is correct. You agree with that? Is Blackburn. Is this Blackburn’s gubernatorial seat if she wants it?

    Glenn Jacobs (aka Kane): Yes. If Senator Blackburn wants to run for governor, I’ll certainly support for and I think that she would be definitely considered the front runner right now. And she’s done great. And she was in the state Senate then with the Congress and obviously is now a U.S. senator, but has done very well at all those levels, represents Tennessee and the people of Tennessee and Tennessee values very well. So I think she’d make a great governor.

    Todd Piro: How long are the terms there?

    Glenn Jacobs (aka Kane): Four years. And why? Said the term limited, say up to four year terms.

    Todd Piro: Okay. So follow me where I’m going here. If memory serves, there have been other WWF, WWE individuals who’ve gone on to the governor’s mansion in their respective state. Is that on the table for Cain? And eight plus years?

    Glenn Jacobs (aka Kane): Yeah. You know, I’m not exactly sure. I have two years left as mayor. A little less than that, actually. And I’m term limited as well. You know, for me, it’s not looking at what political office I want to run for next. It’s really just about trying to make a positive difference for the people that I love. And hopefully that radiates out to everybody else as well. So I’m not exactly sure, you know, and I’m not worried about it either. I mean, for whatever reason, you know, God always seems to put me in different places that, you know, that I feel rewarded and I feel that I belong. And I’m sure that’s what’s going to happen in the future. So, you know, it’s one of those things whatever comes, comes, and I’m going to be okay with that.

    Todd Piro: Got it. You are listening to Glenn Thomas Jacobs. He’s the mayor of Knox County, Tennessee, since 2018 and came to all those boys that I hung out with when I was in the fraternity watching WWE. This is awesome. Thank you so much for making the time curious and excited to see what the next step in your career is. But I think we’re all excited to see what Donald Trump does in the next four years. Appreciate your time. Have a great weekend.

    Glenn Jacobs (aka Kane): Thanks to you, too. I appreciate it.



    Knoxville Mayor and WWE Hall-of-Famer Glenn Jacobs recently expressed his support for Senator Marsha Blackburn potentially running for Tennessee Governor in the upcoming election. In a statement, Jacobs said, “I would certainly support Senator Blackburn if she decides to run for Governor. She has been a strong advocate for our state and I believe she would make a great leader for Tennessee.”

    Jacobs, who is known for his conservative views, has been a vocal supporter of Blackburn in the past and has praised her work in the Senate. If Blackburn does decide to run for Governor, she would likely have strong support from the conservative base in Tennessee, including Jacobs.

    Blackburn has not yet announced her intentions to run for Governor, but speculation has been swirling in political circles. If she does decide to throw her hat in the ring, it seems she would have the backing of influential figures like Glenn Jacobs.

    Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

    Tags:

    Glenn Jacobs, Knoxville Mayor, WWE Hall-of-Famer, Sen. Blackburn, TN Governor, support, endorsement, political news, Tennessee politics

    #Knoxville #Mayor #WWE #HallofFamer #Glenn #Jacobs #Certainly #Support #Sen #Blackburn #Runs #Governor

  • US Sen. Ron Johnson, US Rep. Gwen Moore, Stephen Nick


    The first week of the second Trump administration saw a flurry of executive orders, including moves to shut down borders to immigrants coming into the United States, dismantling federal DEI efforts and pardoning Jan. 6 defendants — U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson and U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore each responded to President Donald Trump’s actions. Eau Claire City Attorney Stephen Nick explained why he is seeking legal guidance from the state over law enforcement officers from other jurisdictions transporting homeless people in need of services to the city.
    U.S. Senator Ron Johnson
    R-Wisconsin

    • President Donald Trump pardoned approximately 1,400 defendants charged by the U.S. Department of Justice for their roles in the Jan. 6, 2021 assault on the U.S. Capitol. Many of those charged were convicted and sentenced for violence against Capitol Police officers that day. Johnson responded to the pardons, which included 11 people from Wisconsin.
    • Johnson: “I think there was a grotesque miscarriage of justice throughout the Biden administration — really a lawless administration. But as relates to January 6th, I think so many of these people were persecuted, weren’t offered speedy trials. So there were many harms that needed to be rectified there. Personally, I probably would have done it in different stages, been a little more selective, but I think in the end, President Trump apparently just decided to pardon them all. And I, truthfully, don’t have any problem with that. I don’t think anybody is really a true danger to society.”

     

    U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore
    D-4th Congressional District

    • U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore did not attend President Trump’s inauguration, and instead was in her district in Milwaukee on Jan. 20 to mark Martin Luther King Jr. Day. She had sharp words about his pardons of the Jan. 6 defendants.
    • Moore: “Maybe I’m cowardly, but I’m terrified. One of my staffers said that she went to the cafeteria in this building and one of the January 6th people were there. I do know that most of the nonviolent, you know, little old ladies that had handmade signs were not the people who were indicted and in jail. The people who were indicted and jailed, I mean, they attacked police officers, they directed people to be violent, they had caches of — and I’m terrified, and my staff, I mean, they were actually in this building. I’m scared of them, and I do think that we have seen Republicans here, you know, who are very, they’re very, very careful not to criticize Trump, but we have seen them stumbling over their words as they have been stunned by this. I think they thought that there would be a little bit more parsing — this one and that one — but these 1,500 commutations and releases are absolutely stunning, and I think that it’s going to be very difficult, you know, to talk about law enforcement and initiatives in this government when we have let all these lawless people out.”

     

    Stephen Nick
    City Attorney, City of Eau Claire

    • The city of Eau Claire has been following law enforcement officers from outside the area increasingly transporting unhoused individuals in need of shelter or mental health services into his city – even when shelters are closed and services unavailable. Nick said these people end up being left at gas stations or otherwise without help to stay out of the cold. He has asked Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul for legal guidance on this practice, which he said is happening across the state as homeless populations rise.
    • Nick: “I know it is an issue around the state and colleagues — my fellow city attorneys, corporation counsel — have reached out to express shared experiences and support. And so I hope that those voices are raised in other portions of the community, ’cause it most certainly is an issue in the Madison area, in the Milwaukee area and Fox Valley, Wausau, Stevens Point, La Crosse — all are having these same types of challenges.”

     

    Watch new episodes of Here & Now at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays.





    The recent collaboration between US Sen. Ron Johnson, US Rep. Gwen Moore, and Stephen Nick is a promising sign of bipartisan cooperation. These three individuals have come together to address important issues facing our country and work towards finding solutions that benefit all Americans. It is encouraging to see politicians from different parties setting aside their differences to work towards common goals. This collaboration serves as a reminder that when we work together, we can achieve great things for our nation. Let’s hope that this is just the beginning of more productive partnerships in the future.

    Tags:

    US Senator Ron Johnson, US Representative Gwen Moore, Stephen Nick, Wisconsin politicians, political news, US government officials

    #Sen #Ron #Johnson #Rep #Gwen #Moore #Stephen #Nick