Thom Tillis, U.S. Senator for North Carolina https://www.tillis.senate.gov en Thu, 10 Sep 2026 14:02:52 +0000 Thu, 10 Sep 2026 14:02:52 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis, Kelly Urge Trump Administration to Reverse Cuts to Joint Military Exercises with South Korea]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/tillis-kelly-press-trump-administration-to-reverse-cuts-to-joint-military-exercises-with-south-korea WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) sent a letter to Department of War (DOW) Secretary Pete Hegseth urging the Trump Administration to reverse its decision to substantially reduce joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea and urged the administration to maintain the training necessary to preserve the readiness of the alliance.

“For more than 70 years, the alliance between the United States and South Korea has been a cornerstone of peace and security on the Korean Peninsula and throughout the Indo-Pacific,” the senators wrote. “South Korea is a capable military ally, and the ability of our forces to operate together is not guaranteed. It is built and sustained through rigorous, realistic, and recurring joint training.” 

“This is not the time to reduce the readiness of U.S. and allied forces in the region,” the senators continued. “Joint exercises such as Ulchi Freedom Shield provide U.S. and ROK forces critical opportunities to practice command and control, combined operations, logistics, and responses to evolving threats. Reducing these exercises risks degrading interoperability and readiness while sending the wrong signal to North Korea and our adversaries.”  

“Our allies should not be punished for declining to support unilateral U.S. military actions in the Middle East, particularly when such shortsighted measures undermine American military readiness…The United States should continue to stand firmly alongside our South Korean allies and ensure our servicemembers have the training they need to fight and win should deterrence fail,” the senators concluded. 

Click here to read the full text of the letter.  

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]]> WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) sent a letter to Department of War (DOW) Secretary Pete Hegseth urging the Trump Administration to reverse its decision to substantially reduce joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea and urged the administration to maintain the training necessary to preserve the readiness of the alliance.

“For more than 70 years, the alliance between the United States and South Korea has been a cornerstone of peace and security on the Korean Peninsula and throughout the Indo-Pacific,” the senators wrote. “South Korea is a capable military ally, and the ability of our forces to operate together is not guaranteed. It is built and sustained through rigorous, realistic, and recurring joint training.” 

“This is not the time to reduce the readiness of U.S. and allied forces in the region,” the senators continued. “Joint exercises such as Ulchi Freedom Shield provide U.S. and ROK forces critical opportunities to practice command and control, combined operations, logistics, and responses to evolving threats. Reducing these exercises risks degrading interoperability and readiness while sending the wrong signal to North Korea and our adversaries.”  

“Our allies should not be punished for declining to support unilateral U.S. military actions in the Middle East, particularly when such shortsighted measures undermine American military readiness…The United States should continue to stand firmly alongside our South Korean allies and ensure our servicemembers have the training they need to fight and win should deterrence fail,” the senators concluded. 

Click here to read the full text of the letter.  

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]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/tillis-kelly-press-trump-administration-to-reverse-cuts-to-joint-military-exercises-with-south-korea Tue, 18 Aug 2026 04:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis, Rounds Introduce Bipartisan Bill To Preserve Records for At-Risk Afghan Allies ]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/tillis-rounds-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-preserve-records-for-at-risk-afghan-allies WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced the Afghan Ally Records and Credential Heritage (ARCH) Act, legislation requiring the Department of War (DOW) to establish a process to identify, verify, and preserve the service records of certain Afghan allies who served alongside our forces during the war in Afghanistan. 

Under the ARCH Act, the DOW would establish a secure online application system through which eligible Afghan allies or their representatives could submit service information and supporting documentation. After reviewing available military, contractor and biometric records, the DOW would preserve verified records for future use. The bill also provides applicants with notice of adverse decisions, an opportunity to appeal and the ability to request reconsideration when new evidence becomes available.  

“We owe it to our Afghan allies to provide a fair and efficient process to preserve the service records documenting the sacrifices they made while serving alongside U.S. forces,” said Senator Tillis. “I’m proud to cosponsor this effort to ensure those records are available for those who stood with our servicemembers in Afghanistan.” 

“We owe an enormous debt to the Afghans who supported U.S. forces during their 20-year mission in Afghanistan,” said Senator Coons. “In exchange for the huge risk to themselves and their families, we promised them protection. This is a first step to fulfilling that promise by ensuring those who put their lives on the line for our country don’t fall through the cracks.”

“Thousands of brave Afghans stood shoulder-to-shoulder with American service members in some of the most dangerous missions of the war,” said Senator Rounds. “Many of these individuals risked everything to support the United States, yet the records documenting their service remain vulnerable to loss or destruction. The ARCH Act creates a secure process to preserve this documentation, making certain that accurate records are maintained.”

“We must keep our covenant with the Afghans who served beside us, risking everything – often at great personal expense to themselves and their families – to further America’s mission,” said Senator Klobuchar. “Our bipartisan legislation will ensure Afghan allies can be confident their service records will be preserved to help them establish facts about their service in future applications to the U.S. government.” 

Specifically, the ARCH Act would:

  • Establish a Department of War Afghan Allies Records Preservation Program.
  • Create a secure online application portal for eligible Afghan allies outside the United States.
  • Verify applicants’ service using available military, contractor and biometric records.
  • Preserve validated service records and supporting documentation for future use.
  • Provide applicants with written notice of denials, an appeals process and an opportunity to reopen applications with new evidence.
  • Prohibit application fees and authorize personnel necessary to administer the program.
  • Maintain the application process for at least ten years, unless the Secretary of Defense later determines that termination is in the national interest.

The legislation recognizes the service of former members of Afghanistan’s special operations forces, Afghan Air Force, Special Mission Wing, intelligence personnel, justice-sector officials, female members of the former Afghan security forces and other individuals who supported the United States mission in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2021. 

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]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced the Afghan Ally Records and Credential Heritage (ARCH) Act, legislation requiring the Department of War (DOW) to establish a process to identify, verify, and preserve the service records of certain Afghan allies who served alongside our forces during the war in Afghanistan. 

Under the ARCH Act, the DOW would establish a secure online application system through which eligible Afghan allies or their representatives could submit service information and supporting documentation. After reviewing available military, contractor and biometric records, the DOW would preserve verified records for future use. The bill also provides applicants with notice of adverse decisions, an opportunity to appeal and the ability to request reconsideration when new evidence becomes available.  

“We owe it to our Afghan allies to provide a fair and efficient process to preserve the service records documenting the sacrifices they made while serving alongside U.S. forces,” said Senator Tillis. “I’m proud to cosponsor this effort to ensure those records are available for those who stood with our servicemembers in Afghanistan.” 

“We owe an enormous debt to the Afghans who supported U.S. forces during their 20-year mission in Afghanistan,” said Senator Coons. “In exchange for the huge risk to themselves and their families, we promised them protection. This is a first step to fulfilling that promise by ensuring those who put their lives on the line for our country don’t fall through the cracks.”

“Thousands of brave Afghans stood shoulder-to-shoulder with American service members in some of the most dangerous missions of the war,” said Senator Rounds. “Many of these individuals risked everything to support the United States, yet the records documenting their service remain vulnerable to loss or destruction. The ARCH Act creates a secure process to preserve this documentation, making certain that accurate records are maintained.”

“We must keep our covenant with the Afghans who served beside us, risking everything – often at great personal expense to themselves and their families – to further America’s mission,” said Senator Klobuchar. “Our bipartisan legislation will ensure Afghan allies can be confident their service records will be preserved to help them establish facts about their service in future applications to the U.S. government.” 

Specifically, the ARCH Act would:

  • Establish a Department of War Afghan Allies Records Preservation Program.
  • Create a secure online application portal for eligible Afghan allies outside the United States.
  • Verify applicants’ service using available military, contractor and biometric records.
  • Preserve validated service records and supporting documentation for future use.
  • Provide applicants with written notice of denials, an appeals process and an opportunity to reopen applications with new evidence.
  • Prohibit application fees and authorize personnel necessary to administer the program.
  • Maintain the application process for at least ten years, unless the Secretary of Defense later determines that termination is in the national interest.

The legislation recognizes the service of former members of Afghanistan’s special operations forces, Afghan Air Force, Special Mission Wing, intelligence personnel, justice-sector officials, female members of the former Afghan security forces and other individuals who supported the United States mission in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2021. 

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]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/tillis-rounds-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-preserve-records-for-at-risk-afghan-allies Mon, 10 Aug 2026 04:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis Applauds Commission of Peter-Anthony Pappas to USITC]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/tillis-applauds-commission-of-peter-anthony-pappas-to-usitc WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) issued the following statement after Peter-Anthony Pappas was sworn in as a Commissioner of the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC):

“Since 2022, Peter-Anthony Pappas has been one of my most trusted advisors, leading my Judiciary team’s intellectual property efforts and helping advance bipartisan solutions on technology, antitrust, and cybersecurity. Those who have worked alongside Peter-Anthony know why he earned the nickname ‘Juice.’ His energy, sound judgment, and tireless work ethic have made him an indispensable member of my team. Given the trade and intellectual property matters before the USITC, I can think of no one better qualified to serve as a commissioner.

“Peter-Anthony has earned the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle, and I am grateful to President Trump for recognizing his talents and nominating him to this important role. I also thank my Senate colleagues for confirming his nomination. While my office will certainly miss ‘Juice,’ I am confident he will faithfully uphold the USITC’s mission and continue serving the American people with integrity and distinction.”

 

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]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) issued the following statement after Peter-Anthony Pappas was sworn in as a Commissioner of the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC):

“Since 2022, Peter-Anthony Pappas has been one of my most trusted advisors, leading my Judiciary team’s intellectual property efforts and helping advance bipartisan solutions on technology, antitrust, and cybersecurity. Those who have worked alongside Peter-Anthony know why he earned the nickname ‘Juice.’ His energy, sound judgment, and tireless work ethic have made him an indispensable member of my team. Given the trade and intellectual property matters before the USITC, I can think of no one better qualified to serve as a commissioner.

“Peter-Anthony has earned the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle, and I am grateful to President Trump for recognizing his talents and nominating him to this important role. I also thank my Senate colleagues for confirming his nomination. While my office will certainly miss ‘Juice,’ I am confident he will faithfully uphold the USITC’s mission and continue serving the American people with integrity and distinction.”

 

###

]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/tillis-applauds-commission-of-peter-anthony-pappas-to-usitc Tue, 04 Aug 2026 04:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Cornyn, Tillis Announce Agreement with Blanche on Anti-Weaponization Fund, IRS Settlement]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/cornyn-tillis-announce-agreement-with-blanche-on-anti-weaponization-fund-irs-settlement WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) released the following statement announcing the successful negotiation of a legally enforceable document clarifying the anti-weaponization fund and the IRS audit release included in the Settlement Agreement signed by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche last May:

“From the outset, we were clear that we needed a written document addressing our concerns on the IRS audit agreement and the anti-weaponization fund that included constraining the scope of audit protection by limiting it to the parties of the Settlement Agreement and legally ending the anti-weaponization fund.

“We are pleased that the Department of Justice has issued a formal order terminating the anti-weaponization fund. Additionally, the Department has acknowledged in a binding written order that the audit settlement is limited to the plaintiffs and the scope does not extend beyond the defendants in the lawsuit, the IRS and the Treasury, addressing concerns that multiple of our Republican colleagues share.

“We want to express our gratitude to Mr. Blanche and his staff for working with us on this, and we look forward to voting to advance his nomination out of the Senate Judiciary Committee soon.” 

 

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]]> WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) released the following statement announcing the successful negotiation of a legally enforceable document clarifying the anti-weaponization fund and the IRS audit release included in the Settlement Agreement signed by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche last May:

“From the outset, we were clear that we needed a written document addressing our concerns on the IRS audit agreement and the anti-weaponization fund that included constraining the scope of audit protection by limiting it to the parties of the Settlement Agreement and legally ending the anti-weaponization fund.

“We are pleased that the Department of Justice has issued a formal order terminating the anti-weaponization fund. Additionally, the Department has acknowledged in a binding written order that the audit settlement is limited to the plaintiffs and the scope does not extend beyond the defendants in the lawsuit, the IRS and the Treasury, addressing concerns that multiple of our Republican colleagues share.

“We want to express our gratitude to Mr. Blanche and his staff for working with us on this, and we look forward to voting to advance his nomination out of the Senate Judiciary Committee soon.” 

 

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]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/8/cornyn-tillis-announce-agreement-with-blanche-on-anti-weaponization-fund-irs-settlement Mon, 03 Aug 2026 04:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Provider Reimbursement Stability Act to Ensure Long-Term Access to Medical Care]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-provider-reimbursement-stability-act-to-ensure-long-term-access-to-medical-care WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), John Boozman (R-AR), Peter Welch (D-VT), Roger Marshall M.D. (R-KS), Angus King (I-ME), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced the Provider Reimbursement Stability Act to modernize Medicare’s Physician Fee Schedule (MFPS). The bipartisan, comprehensive legislation would create greater predictability in Medicare physician payments, preserve patient access to care and better reflect the actual cost of delivering medical services.

According to the American Medical Association (AMA), when adjusted for inflation, Medicare reimbursement for physician services has declined 33 percent since 2001. This reduction, attributed to the Medicare budget neutrality threshold last updated in 1992 and other factors, has failed to keep pace with the rising cost of care. The legislation reforms key structural components of the MPFS, helping preserve physicians’ ability to care for Medicare patients. 

“More than two million Medicare beneficiaries in North Carolina depend on timely access to quality care,” said Senator Tillis. “Year after year, Medicare reimbursement cuts have made it harder for physicians to care for patients. This bipartisan legislation makes long overdue reforms to outdated policies to ensure physicians are fairly reimbursed and seniors continue to have access to the care they deserve.”

“Providers should not face unpredictable payment cuts that make it more difficult to care for patients. Modernizing Medicare reimbursement is an important step toward ensuring long-term financial stability for our health care providers and preserving access to quality care. Our bill is a bipartisan solution that will more accurately reflect the costs of delivering quality care, which ultimately benefits patients in Arkansas and across our country,” said Senator Boozman.

“Outdated policies are creating instability for doctors and threatening access to care for Medicare patients in Vermont and across the country. Our commonsense, bipartisan bill will help ensure physicians can continue providing vital care to our communities,” said Senator Welch.

“For 25 years, I cared for patients in western Kansas. Like many, I didn’t go into medicine to worry about Washington’s payment formulas – I went into medicine to take care of people,” said Senator Marshall. “When doctors can’t make the numbers work, patients lose access to care. This legislation is a commonsense step toward stabilizing physician reimbursement so doctors can spend more time caring for patients and less time worrying about whether they can afford to stay in practice.”

“Accessible, reliable health care is essential for seniors across Maine, particularly in our rural communities where providers are already stretched thin,” said Senator King. “The Provider Reimbursement Stability Act would help ensure that Medicare providers are fairly reimbursed so they can continue delivering the full range of care that Maine seniors depend on for their healthcare needs. I’m proud to join my colleagues in supporting this commonsense bipartisan legislation to strengthen access to quality care for older Americans.”  

“It’s critical we do all we can to ensure that Granite Staters who rely on Medicare for health insurance have access to the quality, affordable care they need,” said Senator Shaheen. “This bipartisan bill would make sure physicians are fairly compensated and guarantee adequate reimbursement for providers, which would help strengthen Medicare’s dependability for patients now and into the future.”

BACKGROUND
The Provider Reimbursement Stability Act would:
  • Increase the budget neutrality threshold from $20 million to $57.64 million and index it to the Medicare Economic Index (MEI) every five years, to address rising practice costs. 
  • Revise spending estimates and budget neutrality adjustments based on utilization rates derived from claims data.
  • Provide updates to direct costs used to calculate practice expense relative value units (RVUs), including clinical wage rates, medical supplies and equipment, not less often than every five years.
  • Limit year-to-year positive or negative variances in the conversion factor to no greater than 2.5 percent.

 

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]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), John Boozman (R-AR), Peter Welch (D-VT), Roger Marshall M.D. (R-KS), Angus King (I-ME), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced the Provider Reimbursement Stability Act to modernize Medicare’s Physician Fee Schedule (MFPS). The bipartisan, comprehensive legislation would create greater predictability in Medicare physician payments, preserve patient access to care and better reflect the actual cost of delivering medical services.

According to the American Medical Association (AMA), when adjusted for inflation, Medicare reimbursement for physician services has declined 33 percent since 2001. This reduction, attributed to the Medicare budget neutrality threshold last updated in 1992 and other factors, has failed to keep pace with the rising cost of care. The legislation reforms key structural components of the MPFS, helping preserve physicians’ ability to care for Medicare patients. 

“More than two million Medicare beneficiaries in North Carolina depend on timely access to quality care,” said Senator Tillis. “Year after year, Medicare reimbursement cuts have made it harder for physicians to care for patients. This bipartisan legislation makes long overdue reforms to outdated policies to ensure physicians are fairly reimbursed and seniors continue to have access to the care they deserve.”

“Providers should not face unpredictable payment cuts that make it more difficult to care for patients. Modernizing Medicare reimbursement is an important step toward ensuring long-term financial stability for our health care providers and preserving access to quality care. Our bill is a bipartisan solution that will more accurately reflect the costs of delivering quality care, which ultimately benefits patients in Arkansas and across our country,” said Senator Boozman.

“Outdated policies are creating instability for doctors and threatening access to care for Medicare patients in Vermont and across the country. Our commonsense, bipartisan bill will help ensure physicians can continue providing vital care to our communities,” said Senator Welch.

“For 25 years, I cared for patients in western Kansas. Like many, I didn’t go into medicine to worry about Washington’s payment formulas – I went into medicine to take care of people,” said Senator Marshall. “When doctors can’t make the numbers work, patients lose access to care. This legislation is a commonsense step toward stabilizing physician reimbursement so doctors can spend more time caring for patients and less time worrying about whether they can afford to stay in practice.”

“Accessible, reliable health care is essential for seniors across Maine, particularly in our rural communities where providers are already stretched thin,” said Senator King. “The Provider Reimbursement Stability Act would help ensure that Medicare providers are fairly reimbursed so they can continue delivering the full range of care that Maine seniors depend on for their healthcare needs. I’m proud to join my colleagues in supporting this commonsense bipartisan legislation to strengthen access to quality care for older Americans.”  

“It’s critical we do all we can to ensure that Granite Staters who rely on Medicare for health insurance have access to the quality, affordable care they need,” said Senator Shaheen. “This bipartisan bill would make sure physicians are fairly compensated and guarantee adequate reimbursement for providers, which would help strengthen Medicare’s dependability for patients now and into the future.”

BACKGROUND
The Provider Reimbursement Stability Act would:
  • Increase the budget neutrality threshold from $20 million to $57.64 million and index it to the Medicare Economic Index (MEI) every five years, to address rising practice costs. 
  • Revise spending estimates and budget neutrality adjustments based on utilization rates derived from claims data.
  • Provide updates to direct costs used to calculate practice expense relative value units (RVUs), including clinical wage rates, medical supplies and equipment, not less often than every five years.
  • Limit year-to-year positive or negative variances in the conversion factor to no greater than 2.5 percent.

 

###

]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-provider-reimbursement-stability-act-to-ensure-long-term-access-to-medical-care Fri, 31 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation in Support of Ukrainian Defense]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-in-support-of-ukrainian-defense WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tim Kaine (D-VA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Chris Coons (D-DE), Alan Armstrong (R-OK), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the bipartisan Fast Tracking European Investment in Ukraine’s Defense Act to boost Ukraine’s defense by allowing for the more consistent and timely provision of high-volume, low-tech munitions critical to the country’s fight against Russian aggression. The legislation would foster greater investment by NATO allies in Ukraine’s defense as well as build out the capacity of the U.S. defense industrial base.

“As Russia continues it’s illegal attack on Ukraine, it’s imperative we work alongside NATO to do everything we can to provide Ukraine with the valuable resources they need,” said Senator Tillis. “I am proud to join my colleagues in this bipartisan legislation that will help us better support Ukraine in its fight against Putin’s authoritarian aggression by ensuring a consistent supply of critical low-tech munitions.” 

“I’ve been to Ukraine twice—most recently in June—and saw firsthand how critical U.S. investments have been for Ukrainians’ defense,” said Senator Kaine. “We’re currently at a pivotal point in the war—we must keep up the pressure on Russia and show that the democracies of the world continue to stand united against authoritarian regimes. I’m glad to be working with this bipartisan group of senators to boost U.S. and allied support and help ensure our European partners can invest in the swift high-volume production and transfer of urgently-needed low-tech munitions to Ukraine. I’m going to keep urging my colleagues to join us in this important effort.”

“Third-party transfers of high-volume munitions have helped Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression while also ensuring our European allies share the cost burden, and it’s unfortunate that this valuable tool is often caught in a cumbersome arms export approval process,” said Senator Cornyn. “Our commonsense legislation would cut red tape to expedite the process for our allies to purchase and transfer certain munitions to Ukraine so they can continue their fight against Putin’s unprovoked invasion, and I’m proud to join Senator Kaine to introduce it.”

“Ukraine stands on the front lines of freedom, protecting the world from Putin’s aggression,” said Senator Coons. “Our European allies have stepped forward, taking on more of the financial burden of investing in Ukraine’s defense. We should pass this bill to support our allies’ efforts, strengthen our own industrial base, and ensure Ukraine has the weapons it needs to win on the battlefield.” 

”Ukraine's ability to defend itself is essential to the security and stability of Europe and the broader transatlantic alliance. The Fast Tracking European Investment in Ukraine's Defense Act strengthens our allies, encourages greater European burden-sharing, and helps ensure Ukraine has the resources it needs to deter Russian aggression while advancing our shared security interests,” said Senator Armstrong. 

“Ukraine urgently needs artillery and rockets, but bureaucratic delays are hindering the delivery of critical munitions. Each day we wait strengthens Putin’s position. This bipartisan bill creates a faster, clearer pathway to get Ukraine the weapons it needs to protect itself,” said Senator Kelly. 

“When Putin loses America is safer. Vladimir Putin has waged his brutal war against Ukraine. However, Ukraine continues to courageously hold the line and take the fight to Russia. Getting weapons to Ukraine faster is just commonsense. This bill does just that without any additional cost to taxpayers. Continuing our support of Ukraine will keep Americans safe,” said Senator Ricketts. 

BACKGROUND
Third-party transfers of high-volume artillery and rocket munitions have been essential to keeping Ukraine supplied and ensuring European partners are sharing the burden. However, each transaction requires a lengthy arms export approval process by the U.S. government, and many of these transactions consist of the same low-tech munitions. This rigorous process is hindering Ukraine’s ability to receive critical munitions and hurting battlefield effectiveness.

The Fast Tracking European Investment in Ukraine’s Defense Act would address these challenges. Specifically, it would: 

  • Amend the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) to preauthorize the purchase and transfer of certain high-volume, low-tech munitions to Ukraine by NATO members and other countries until December 31, 2030 with the option of an extension through 2035. Munitions include:  
    • 155mm Artillery Shells
    • 155mm Excalibur Extended Range Artillery Shells
    • High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) Munitions
    • Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) Munitions
  • Require the Government of Ukraine to provide a written guarantee that it will not transfer any such articles without receiving consent from the U.S.
  • Maintain all current end-use monitoring and congressional oversight legal requirements. 

###

 

]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tim Kaine (D-VA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Chris Coons (D-DE), Alan Armstrong (R-OK), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced the bipartisan Fast Tracking European Investment in Ukraine’s Defense Act to boost Ukraine’s defense by allowing for the more consistent and timely provision of high-volume, low-tech munitions critical to the country’s fight against Russian aggression. The legislation would foster greater investment by NATO allies in Ukraine’s defense as well as build out the capacity of the U.S. defense industrial base.

“As Russia continues it’s illegal attack on Ukraine, it’s imperative we work alongside NATO to do everything we can to provide Ukraine with the valuable resources they need,” said Senator Tillis. “I am proud to join my colleagues in this bipartisan legislation that will help us better support Ukraine in its fight against Putin’s authoritarian aggression by ensuring a consistent supply of critical low-tech munitions.” 

“I’ve been to Ukraine twice—most recently in June—and saw firsthand how critical U.S. investments have been for Ukrainians’ defense,” said Senator Kaine. “We’re currently at a pivotal point in the war—we must keep up the pressure on Russia and show that the democracies of the world continue to stand united against authoritarian regimes. I’m glad to be working with this bipartisan group of senators to boost U.S. and allied support and help ensure our European partners can invest in the swift high-volume production and transfer of urgently-needed low-tech munitions to Ukraine. I’m going to keep urging my colleagues to join us in this important effort.”

“Third-party transfers of high-volume munitions have helped Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression while also ensuring our European allies share the cost burden, and it’s unfortunate that this valuable tool is often caught in a cumbersome arms export approval process,” said Senator Cornyn. “Our commonsense legislation would cut red tape to expedite the process for our allies to purchase and transfer certain munitions to Ukraine so they can continue their fight against Putin’s unprovoked invasion, and I’m proud to join Senator Kaine to introduce it.”

“Ukraine stands on the front lines of freedom, protecting the world from Putin’s aggression,” said Senator Coons. “Our European allies have stepped forward, taking on more of the financial burden of investing in Ukraine’s defense. We should pass this bill to support our allies’ efforts, strengthen our own industrial base, and ensure Ukraine has the weapons it needs to win on the battlefield.” 

”Ukraine's ability to defend itself is essential to the security and stability of Europe and the broader transatlantic alliance. The Fast Tracking European Investment in Ukraine's Defense Act strengthens our allies, encourages greater European burden-sharing, and helps ensure Ukraine has the resources it needs to deter Russian aggression while advancing our shared security interests,” said Senator Armstrong. 

“Ukraine urgently needs artillery and rockets, but bureaucratic delays are hindering the delivery of critical munitions. Each day we wait strengthens Putin’s position. This bipartisan bill creates a faster, clearer pathway to get Ukraine the weapons it needs to protect itself,” said Senator Kelly. 

“When Putin loses America is safer. Vladimir Putin has waged his brutal war against Ukraine. However, Ukraine continues to courageously hold the line and take the fight to Russia. Getting weapons to Ukraine faster is just commonsense. This bill does just that without any additional cost to taxpayers. Continuing our support of Ukraine will keep Americans safe,” said Senator Ricketts. 

BACKGROUND
Third-party transfers of high-volume artillery and rocket munitions have been essential to keeping Ukraine supplied and ensuring European partners are sharing the burden. However, each transaction requires a lengthy arms export approval process by the U.S. government, and many of these transactions consist of the same low-tech munitions. This rigorous process is hindering Ukraine’s ability to receive critical munitions and hurting battlefield effectiveness.

The Fast Tracking European Investment in Ukraine’s Defense Act would address these challenges. Specifically, it would: 

  • Amend the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) to preauthorize the purchase and transfer of certain high-volume, low-tech munitions to Ukraine by NATO members and other countries until December 31, 2030 with the option of an extension through 2035. Munitions include:  
    • 155mm Artillery Shells
    • 155mm Excalibur Extended Range Artillery Shells
    • High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) Munitions
    • Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) Munitions
  • Require the Government of Ukraine to provide a written guarantee that it will not transfer any such articles without receiving consent from the U.S.
  • Maintain all current end-use monitoring and congressional oversight legal requirements. 

###

 

]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-in-support-of-ukrainian-defense Thu, 30 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis, Colleagues Unanimously Pass Grassley-Coons Anti-Counterfeiting Month Resolution]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-colleagues-unanimously-pass-grassley-coons-anti-counterfeiting-month-resolution WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) in applauding the Senate’s unanimous passage of their resolution designating July as “National Anti-Counterfeiting and Consumer Education and Awareness Month.” The bipartisan resolution aims to educate Americans on the economic importance of trademarks and their role in protecting consumers from dangerous knockoffs. 

“For too long, counterfeit products have threatened American businesses and put consumers at a serious risk,” said Senator Tillis. “I’m proud to support this resolution recognizing the importance of protecting trademarks and raising awareness on the dangers of counterfeiting.”

 “Counterfeit goods endanger consumers, harm businesses and threaten the U.S. economy. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort as Judiciary Chairman to raise awareness of the dangers of illicit knockoffs and the value of protecting American trademarks and intellectual property,” said Senator Grassley. 

“To ensure our nation remains the global leader in innovation, we must secure Americans’ intellectual property rights. That includes combatting the counterfeit goods that steal our incomes, endanger our safety, and degrade trust in the products we buy,” said Senator Coons. “As co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Trademark Caucus, I’m proud to mark July as Anti-Counterfeiting Month to help raise awareness of the harms of counterfeit goods and the importance of trademarks to our intellectual property system.”  

“The rise of online shopping has heightened the long-standing threat counterfeit goods pose to American businesses and consumers. By recognizing the importance of protecting trademarks and raising awareness about the dangers of counterfeiting, this resolution reaffirms the importance of protecting American consumers from the dangers of deceptive and harmful products,” said Senator Hirono. 

Read the full resolution HERE. 

  

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]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) in applauding the Senate’s unanimous passage of their resolution designating July as “National Anti-Counterfeiting and Consumer Education and Awareness Month.” The bipartisan resolution aims to educate Americans on the economic importance of trademarks and their role in protecting consumers from dangerous knockoffs. 

“For too long, counterfeit products have threatened American businesses and put consumers at a serious risk,” said Senator Tillis. “I’m proud to support this resolution recognizing the importance of protecting trademarks and raising awareness on the dangers of counterfeiting.”

 “Counterfeit goods endanger consumers, harm businesses and threaten the U.S. economy. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort as Judiciary Chairman to raise awareness of the dangers of illicit knockoffs and the value of protecting American trademarks and intellectual property,” said Senator Grassley. 

“To ensure our nation remains the global leader in innovation, we must secure Americans’ intellectual property rights. That includes combatting the counterfeit goods that steal our incomes, endanger our safety, and degrade trust in the products we buy,” said Senator Coons. “As co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Trademark Caucus, I’m proud to mark July as Anti-Counterfeiting Month to help raise awareness of the harms of counterfeit goods and the importance of trademarks to our intellectual property system.”  

“The rise of online shopping has heightened the long-standing threat counterfeit goods pose to American businesses and consumers. By recognizing the importance of protecting trademarks and raising awareness about the dangers of counterfeiting, this resolution reaffirms the importance of protecting American consumers from the dangers of deceptive and harmful products,” said Senator Hirono. 

Read the full resolution HERE. 

  

###

]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-colleagues-unanimously-pass-grassley-coons-anti-counterfeiting-month-resolution Thu, 30 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis, Coons Renew Call for Release of Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-coons-renew-call-for-release-of-dr-gubad-ibadoghlu WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Chris Coons (D-DE), co-chairs of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, led a group of seven Senators urging for the immediate release of Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu on the third anniversary of his arrest and released the following statement: 

“This week marks three years since Azerbaijani authorities violently and arbitrarily detained internationally renowned economist, anti-corruption expert, and academic Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu on false charges, which have been universally condemned as politically motivated and baseless. To this day, Dr. Ibadoghlu has never received a fair trial.

“Today, more than 1,000 days since his arrest, Dr. Ibadoghlu remains under indefinite house arrest, under constant surveillance, barred from domestic and international travel, and required to report to police twice a week. His health has deteriorated gravely.  He suffers from a worsening aortic aneurysm requiring urgent surgery, type 2 diabetes with chronically uncontrolled blood sugar, and high blood pressure.  Doctors have warned that without immediate specialist intervention, his life is at serious risk, yet Azerbaijan's travel ban continues to block him from receiving the lifesaving care he urgently needs.

“Dr. Ibadoghlu has dedicated his career to democracy, good governance, and anti-corruption research, including years of teaching and conducting research at leading American universities.  He is not simply a political prisoner; he is a man whose life is slipping away while the world watches. That is unacceptable.

“We call on Azerbaijani authorities to release Dr. Ibadoghlu immediately and unconditionally and to lift his travel ban without delay. Three years is too long. His life is at stake. The time for action is now.” 

Joining Senators Tillis and Coons are Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Peter Welch (D-VT).

###

]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Chris Coons (D-DE), co-chairs of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, led a group of seven Senators urging for the immediate release of Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu on the third anniversary of his arrest and released the following statement: 

“This week marks three years since Azerbaijani authorities violently and arbitrarily detained internationally renowned economist, anti-corruption expert, and academic Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu on false charges, which have been universally condemned as politically motivated and baseless. To this day, Dr. Ibadoghlu has never received a fair trial.

“Today, more than 1,000 days since his arrest, Dr. Ibadoghlu remains under indefinite house arrest, under constant surveillance, barred from domestic and international travel, and required to report to police twice a week. His health has deteriorated gravely.  He suffers from a worsening aortic aneurysm requiring urgent surgery, type 2 diabetes with chronically uncontrolled blood sugar, and high blood pressure.  Doctors have warned that without immediate specialist intervention, his life is at serious risk, yet Azerbaijan's travel ban continues to block him from receiving the lifesaving care he urgently needs.

“Dr. Ibadoghlu has dedicated his career to democracy, good governance, and anti-corruption research, including years of teaching and conducting research at leading American universities.  He is not simply a political prisoner; he is a man whose life is slipping away while the world watches. That is unacceptable.

“We call on Azerbaijani authorities to release Dr. Ibadoghlu immediately and unconditionally and to lift his travel ban without delay. Three years is too long. His life is at stake. The time for action is now.” 

Joining Senators Tillis and Coons are Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Peter Welch (D-VT).

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]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-coons-renew-call-for-release-of-dr-gubad-ibadoghlu Thu, 23 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis Joins 60+ Senators in Co-sponsoring Bipartisan Legislation to Hold Purchasers of Russian Oil and Gas Accountable]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-joins-60-senators-in-co-sponsoring-bipartisan-legislation-to-hold-purchasers-of-russian-oil-and-gas-accountable WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), co-chair of the Senate NATO Observer Group (SNOG), joined Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Darline Graham (R-SC), along with 60+ colleagues in introducing the bipartisan Senator Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 legislation to hold major purchasers of Russian oil and gas accountable for supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine. 

Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the effort last week and secured an agreement with the White House on Friday, before his death. 

“There is no doubt that Vladimir Putin must be severely punished for his illegal aggression, and crippling economic sanctions on Russia are long overdue,” said Senator Tillis. “Lindsey led the Senate’s fight to impose meaningful consequences on Putin, and we owe it to the Ukrainian people and to his legacy to pass this legislation.” 

The legislation is cosponsored by Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) and Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Katie Britt (R-AL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jim Risch (R-ID), Chris Coons (D-DE), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Jack Reed (D-RI), Tim Scott (R-SC), Angus King (I-ME), John Barrasso (R-WY), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Mark Kelly (D-AZ),  Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Brian Schatz (D-HI), John Cornyn (R-TX), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Curtis (R-UT), John Fetterman (D-PA), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Gary Peters (D-MI), James Lankford (R-OK), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), John Boozman (R-AR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Jon Husted (R-OH), John Hoeven (R-ND), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Jim Justice (R-WV), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Kennedy (R-LA), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Rick Scott (R-FL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Alan Armstrong (R-OK), and Steve Daines (R-MT). 

  

###

 

]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), co-chair of the Senate NATO Observer Group (SNOG), joined Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Darline Graham (R-SC), along with 60+ colleagues in introducing the bipartisan Senator Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 legislation to hold major purchasers of Russian oil and gas accountable for supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine. 

Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the effort last week and secured an agreement with the White House on Friday, before his death. 

“There is no doubt that Vladimir Putin must be severely punished for his illegal aggression, and crippling economic sanctions on Russia are long overdue,” said Senator Tillis. “Lindsey led the Senate’s fight to impose meaningful consequences on Putin, and we owe it to the Ukrainian people and to his legacy to pass this legislation.” 

The legislation is cosponsored by Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) and Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Katie Britt (R-AL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jim Risch (R-ID), Chris Coons (D-DE), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Jack Reed (D-RI), Tim Scott (R-SC), Angus King (I-ME), John Barrasso (R-WY), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Mark Kelly (D-AZ),  Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Brian Schatz (D-HI), John Cornyn (R-TX), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Curtis (R-UT), John Fetterman (D-PA), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Gary Peters (D-MI), James Lankford (R-OK), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), John Boozman (R-AR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Jon Husted (R-OH), John Hoeven (R-ND), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Jim Justice (R-WV), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Kennedy (R-LA), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Rick Scott (R-FL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Alan Armstrong (R-OK), and Steve Daines (R-MT). 

  

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]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/7/tillis-joins-60-senators-in-co-sponsoring-bipartisan-legislation-to-hold-purchasers-of-russian-oil-and-gas-accountable Fri, 17 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis, Gillibrand Resolution Honoring ‘Donut Dollies’ Passes Senate ]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/5/tillis-gillibrand-resolution-honoring-donut-dollies-passes-senate WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) announced Senate passage of their resolution commending the “Donut Dollies” for their patriotic service and steadfast support of United States servicemembers in combat and honoring their extraordinary contributions to the morale and well-being of United States servicemembers during wartime.

“The Donut Dollies served our troops in some of the most dangerous conditions imaginable, bringing comfort, connection, and a reminder of home to those far from it,” said Senator Tillis. “Their courage and compassion lifted morale on the front lines and left a lasting impact on generations of servicemembers. This resolution honors these extraordinary women for their selfless service and ensures their contributions to our nation are never forgotten.” 

“The Donut Dollies are a vital part of our nation’s history, and they deserve recognition for their bravery and selfless commitment to service,” said Senator Gillibrand. “These young women put their own lives in danger to aid our troops in combat zones, providing service members with emotional support and a sense of home in some of the most difficult conditions imaginable. I am so grateful that we were able to pass this vital resolution and properly honor the Donut Dollies’ contributions.”

Background: 

During World War I, Salvation Army volunteers known as the “Doughnut Lassies” served near the front lines, providing coffee, doughnuts, and comfort to American troops, inspiring the later Red Cross “Donut Dollies” programs. During World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, American Red Cross volunteers traveled to bases and combat zones to boost morale by offering refreshments, recreation, and a connection to home. From 1965 to 1972 alone, more than 600 Donut Dollies served in Vietnam through the Supplemental Recreation Activities Overseas program, reaching hundreds of thousands of servicemembers and often traveling by helicopter or convoy into dangerous areas. Military leaders credited their work as essential to maintaining troop morale. This resolution recognizes their courage, sacrifice, and lasting impact on generations of American troops.

Text of the resolution is available HERE. 

 

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]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) announced Senate passage of their resolution commending the “Donut Dollies” for their patriotic service and steadfast support of United States servicemembers in combat and honoring their extraordinary contributions to the morale and well-being of United States servicemembers during wartime.

“The Donut Dollies served our troops in some of the most dangerous conditions imaginable, bringing comfort, connection, and a reminder of home to those far from it,” said Senator Tillis. “Their courage and compassion lifted morale on the front lines and left a lasting impact on generations of servicemembers. This resolution honors these extraordinary women for their selfless service and ensures their contributions to our nation are never forgotten.” 

“The Donut Dollies are a vital part of our nation’s history, and they deserve recognition for their bravery and selfless commitment to service,” said Senator Gillibrand. “These young women put their own lives in danger to aid our troops in combat zones, providing service members with emotional support and a sense of home in some of the most difficult conditions imaginable. I am so grateful that we were able to pass this vital resolution and properly honor the Donut Dollies’ contributions.”

Background: 

During World War I, Salvation Army volunteers known as the “Doughnut Lassies” served near the front lines, providing coffee, doughnuts, and comfort to American troops, inspiring the later Red Cross “Donut Dollies” programs. During World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, American Red Cross volunteers traveled to bases and combat zones to boost morale by offering refreshments, recreation, and a connection to home. From 1965 to 1972 alone, more than 600 Donut Dollies served in Vietnam through the Supplemental Recreation Activities Overseas program, reaching hundreds of thousands of servicemembers and often traveling by helicopter or convoy into dangerous areas. Military leaders credited their work as essential to maintaining troop morale. This resolution recognizes their courage, sacrifice, and lasting impact on generations of American troops.

Text of the resolution is available HERE. 

 

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]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/5/tillis-gillibrand-resolution-honoring-donut-dollies-passes-senate Tue, 05 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis Statement on Powell Investigation]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/4/tillis-statement-on-powell-investigation WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, issued the following statement:

“I have been clear from the start: the U.S. Attorney’s Office criminal investigation into Chair Powell was a serious threat to the Fed’s independence, and it needed to end before I could support Kevin Warsh’s confirmation. I welcome the Inspector General's investigation. This is a necessary and appropriate measure, and I have confidence it will be conducted thoroughly and professionally.

“I take the Department of Justice at its word: the investigation is closed, and any appeal of Judge Boasberg’s ruling will be with respect to legal principles and not for the purpose of reissuing subpoenas. Only a criminal referral from the inspector general would cause a reopening of the investigation.

“With these assurances, I look forward to supporting Kevin Warsh’s confirmation. He is an outstanding nominee, and it is time for the Federal Reserve to move beyond this distraction and return its full attention to its mission.”

 

###

 

]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, issued the following statement:

“I have been clear from the start: the U.S. Attorney’s Office criminal investigation into Chair Powell was a serious threat to the Fed’s independence, and it needed to end before I could support Kevin Warsh’s confirmation. I welcome the Inspector General's investigation. This is a necessary and appropriate measure, and I have confidence it will be conducted thoroughly and professionally.

“I take the Department of Justice at its word: the investigation is closed, and any appeal of Judge Boasberg’s ruling will be with respect to legal principles and not for the purpose of reissuing subpoenas. Only a criminal referral from the inspector general would cause a reopening of the investigation.

“With these assurances, I look forward to supporting Kevin Warsh’s confirmation. He is an outstanding nominee, and it is time for the Federal Reserve to move beyond this distraction and return its full attention to its mission.”

 

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]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/4/tillis-statement-on-powell-investigation Sun, 26 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis Statement on the SAVE America Act]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/3/tillis-statement-on-the-save-america-act WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), issued the following statement on the SAVE America Act: 

“I am one of the few members of Congress who has actually passed a voter ID law (on a bipartisan basis), which I did as Speaker of the House in North Carolina, and that’s why I proudly co-sponsored the SAVE Act. While I support strengthening mail-in ballot integrity, many states like Utah, Florida, Alaska, and Montana rely on the use of mail-in ballots to conduct their elections, and we should not be completely upending how states already securely conduct their elections. Even if this issue is fixed, the SAVE America Act still will not have the 60 votes required to pass it. 

“While the so-called ‘talking filibuster’ has been floated as an option, there is a reason why previous attempts to utilize it in recent history have failed. A ‘talking filibuster’ would effectively make Chuck Schumer the new Senate Majority Leader, allowing Democrats to block every single Trump judge and executive branch nominee, and allow them to force endless votes on anything they want. Democrats would control the floor of the U.S. Senate until the end of the year.  

“There are only two ways out of a ‘talking filibuster.’ The first is for Democrats to miraculously give up and allow Republicans to pass the bill with a simple majority. That is never going to happen, and anyone who claims it’s even a remote possibility is either completely misinformed or intentionally misleading the American people. 

“The second way is for Republicans to substantially weaken or eliminate the filibuster altogether. I have made it crystal clear that I will never vote to do this. Eliminating the filibuster is a foolish and lazy idea pushed by politicians seeking short-term gain at the expense of causing irreparable long-term harm to our nation. Succeeding in eliminating the filibuster would significantly weaken the minority party, end the need for bipartisan compromise, and allow erratic swings in policy that would transform America for the worse. Those are just the consequences of a best-case outcome.  

“During the last Congress, all of my Democratic colleagues currently serving supported nuking the filibuster to try to pass their own partisan election reform bill. Democrats were dead wrong to try to change the filibuster when they controlled the Senate, and Republicans would be dead wrong to try to change the filibuster now that we control the Senate. The only real path to address the American people’s declining confidence in our elections is for both parties to find common ground on legislation that supports universal adoption of voter ID, proof of citizenship, and other vital election integrity measures.”

  

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]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), issued the following statement on the SAVE America Act: 

“I am one of the few members of Congress who has actually passed a voter ID law (on a bipartisan basis), which I did as Speaker of the House in North Carolina, and that’s why I proudly co-sponsored the SAVE Act. While I support strengthening mail-in ballot integrity, many states like Utah, Florida, Alaska, and Montana rely on the use of mail-in ballots to conduct their elections, and we should not be completely upending how states already securely conduct their elections. Even if this issue is fixed, the SAVE America Act still will not have the 60 votes required to pass it. 

“While the so-called ‘talking filibuster’ has been floated as an option, there is a reason why previous attempts to utilize it in recent history have failed. A ‘talking filibuster’ would effectively make Chuck Schumer the new Senate Majority Leader, allowing Democrats to block every single Trump judge and executive branch nominee, and allow them to force endless votes on anything they want. Democrats would control the floor of the U.S. Senate until the end of the year.  

“There are only two ways out of a ‘talking filibuster.’ The first is for Democrats to miraculously give up and allow Republicans to pass the bill with a simple majority. That is never going to happen, and anyone who claims it’s even a remote possibility is either completely misinformed or intentionally misleading the American people. 

“The second way is for Republicans to substantially weaken or eliminate the filibuster altogether. I have made it crystal clear that I will never vote to do this. Eliminating the filibuster is a foolish and lazy idea pushed by politicians seeking short-term gain at the expense of causing irreparable long-term harm to our nation. Succeeding in eliminating the filibuster would significantly weaken the minority party, end the need for bipartisan compromise, and allow erratic swings in policy that would transform America for the worse. Those are just the consequences of a best-case outcome.  

“During the last Congress, all of my Democratic colleagues currently serving supported nuking the filibuster to try to pass their own partisan election reform bill. Democrats were dead wrong to try to change the filibuster when they controlled the Senate, and Republicans would be dead wrong to try to change the filibuster now that we control the Senate. The only real path to address the American people’s declining confidence in our elections is for both parties to find common ground on legislation that supports universal adoption of voter ID, proof of citizenship, and other vital election integrity measures.”

  

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]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/3/tillis-statement-on-the-save-america-act Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis Statement on Powell Investigation]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/3/tillis-statement-on-powell-investigation WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, issued the following statement: 

“This ruling confirms just how weak and frivolous the criminal investigation of Chairman Powell is and it is nothing more than a failed attack on Fed independence. We all know how this is going to end and the D.C. U.S. Attorney’s Office should save itself further embarrassment and move on. Appealing the ruling will only delay the confirmation of Kevin Warsh as the next Fed Chair.”

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]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, issued the following statement: 

“This ruling confirms just how weak and frivolous the criminal investigation of Chairman Powell is and it is nothing more than a failed attack on Fed independence. We all know how this is going to end and the D.C. U.S. Attorney’s Office should save itself further embarrassment and move on. Appealing the ruling will only delay the confirmation of Kevin Warsh as the next Fed Chair.”

###

]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/3/tillis-statement-on-powell-investigation Fri, 13 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis Demands Accountability from DHS on Immigration Enforcement Operations]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/2/tillis-demands-accountability-from-dhs-on-immigration-enforcement-operations WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) recently sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem seeking answers about interior enforcement operations conducted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), including Operation Charlotte’s Web and recent activity in Minneapolis ahead of Secretary Noem’s hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee on March 3.

“The Trump Administration has made measurable progress in restoring order at the southern border. Under the leadership of Border Czar Tom Homan, conditions no longer resemble the instability of the previous administration. That same level of successful and seamless execution has not always been achieved in the Department of Homeland Security’s recent interior immigration enforcement operations. Interior enforcement carried out by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement must be effective, disciplined, and fully compliant with constitutional and statutory limits. While these agencies have historically met that standard, recent operations raise serious questions that require direct oversight,” Tillis wrote. 

“On November 15, 2025, DHS conducted Operation Charlotte’s Web in my home state of North Carolina. The operation resulted in the apprehension of several criminal illegal aliens with extensive criminal records, an outcome I applaud. At the same time, multiple public reports allege that U.S. citizens were detained, subject to force, and experienced damage to personal property. I seek clarification as to whether these reports are merely disingenuous accounts from partisans who do not share our commitment to a secure border, or if they reflect substantiated incidents,” Tillis continued. 

“Similar concerns have since emerged in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where DHS enforcement actions reportedly involved U.S. citizens, use of force, reliance on administrative warrants, and unclear predication for initial engagements. Taken together, these events point to a broader transparency and accountability gap in DHS interior enforcement operations that this Committee has a responsibility to address,” Tillis concluded. 

 The full text of the letter and the list of questions submitted to Secretary Noem are available HERE.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

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]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) recently sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem seeking answers about interior enforcement operations conducted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), including Operation Charlotte’s Web and recent activity in Minneapolis ahead of Secretary Noem’s hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee on March 3.

“The Trump Administration has made measurable progress in restoring order at the southern border. Under the leadership of Border Czar Tom Homan, conditions no longer resemble the instability of the previous administration. That same level of successful and seamless execution has not always been achieved in the Department of Homeland Security’s recent interior immigration enforcement operations. Interior enforcement carried out by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement must be effective, disciplined, and fully compliant with constitutional and statutory limits. While these agencies have historically met that standard, recent operations raise serious questions that require direct oversight,” Tillis wrote. 

“On November 15, 2025, DHS conducted Operation Charlotte’s Web in my home state of North Carolina. The operation resulted in the apprehension of several criminal illegal aliens with extensive criminal records, an outcome I applaud. At the same time, multiple public reports allege that U.S. citizens were detained, subject to force, and experienced damage to personal property. I seek clarification as to whether these reports are merely disingenuous accounts from partisans who do not share our commitment to a secure border, or if they reflect substantiated incidents,” Tillis continued. 

“Similar concerns have since emerged in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where DHS enforcement actions reportedly involved U.S. citizens, use of force, reliance on administrative warrants, and unclear predication for initial engagements. Taken together, these events point to a broader transparency and accountability gap in DHS interior enforcement operations that this Committee has a responsibility to address,” Tillis concluded. 

 The full text of the letter and the list of questions submitted to Secretary Noem are available HERE.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

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]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/2/tillis-demands-accountability-from-dhs-on-immigration-enforcement-operations Tue, 03 Feb 2026 05:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis, Blumenthal Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Honor Law Enforcement and Strengthen Officer Safety]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-blumenthal-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-honor-law-enforcement-and-strengthen-officer-safety WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) recently introduced the bipartisan National Law Enforcement Officers Remembrance, Support, and Community Outreach Act, legislation to establish a formal program within the U.S. Department of the Interior to support community outreach, public education, and officer safety and wellness initiatives of the National Law Enforcement Museum through grants to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. 

“Our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe, and they deserve our full support,” said Senator Tillis. “This bipartisan legislation honors the sacrifice of fallen officers while strengthening officer safety, wellness, and public education through the National Law Enforcement Museum and Memorial. I’m proud to stand with our law enforcement officers to ensure these vital programs continue and grow.” 

“Our bipartisan measure brings law enforcement closer to the communities they serve,” said Senator Blumenthal. “By investing in programs that support community outreach and honoring the service of fallen officers, our legislation fosters stronger bonds between law enforcement and the public.” 

“On behalf of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), I want to express our sincere thanks to Senators Tillis and Blumenthal for taking the lead in authoring the National Law Enforcement Remembrance, Support and Community Outreach Act,” said Lori Sharpe Day, Chair, National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. “The fact that Congress saw fit to create the National Law Enforcement Memorial and the National Law Enforcement Museum set a powerful precedent for Congress recognizing the vital importance of our mission. This legislation is a logical next step for Congress to take to ensure that the vital mission of NLEOMF continues and, in these challenging times for law enforcement, that the important educational and outreach programs run by NLEOMF and the National Law Enforcement Museum are expanded and enhanced. This bill will save police lives and help forge a closer relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve. It's an important pro-law enforcement bill  - one that we strongly endorse and support.”

Background:

The National Law Enforcement Officers Remembrance, Support, and Community Outreach Act would support initiatives to memorialize and honor law enforcement officers, collect and analyze data on law enforcement fatalities and injuries, increase public understanding of and support for law enforcement, enhance officer safety and wellness, and strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. The legislation would authorize $6 million annually for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund over seven fiscal years.

The bill is supported by numerous law enforcement and public safety organizations including: The National Law Enforcement Remembrance, Support and Community Outreach Act is supported by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund's board member organizations, including the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, Fraternal Order of Police, Fraternal Order of Police Auxiliary, International Brotherhood of Police Officers, International Union of Police Associations/AFL-CIO, Motorola Solutions, Verizon, National Association of Police Organizations, National Sheriffs’ Associations, COPS, DuPont, National Black Police Association, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, National Policing Institute, National Troopers Coalition, Police Executive Research Forum, Police Unity Tour, and the United Federation of Police Officers.

Full text of the bill is available HERE. 

 

###

]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) recently introduced the bipartisan National Law Enforcement Officers Remembrance, Support, and Community Outreach Act, legislation to establish a formal program within the U.S. Department of the Interior to support community outreach, public education, and officer safety and wellness initiatives of the National Law Enforcement Museum through grants to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. 

“Our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe, and they deserve our full support,” said Senator Tillis. “This bipartisan legislation honors the sacrifice of fallen officers while strengthening officer safety, wellness, and public education through the National Law Enforcement Museum and Memorial. I’m proud to stand with our law enforcement officers to ensure these vital programs continue and grow.” 

“Our bipartisan measure brings law enforcement closer to the communities they serve,” said Senator Blumenthal. “By investing in programs that support community outreach and honoring the service of fallen officers, our legislation fosters stronger bonds between law enforcement and the public.” 

“On behalf of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), I want to express our sincere thanks to Senators Tillis and Blumenthal for taking the lead in authoring the National Law Enforcement Remembrance, Support and Community Outreach Act,” said Lori Sharpe Day, Chair, National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. “The fact that Congress saw fit to create the National Law Enforcement Memorial and the National Law Enforcement Museum set a powerful precedent for Congress recognizing the vital importance of our mission. This legislation is a logical next step for Congress to take to ensure that the vital mission of NLEOMF continues and, in these challenging times for law enforcement, that the important educational and outreach programs run by NLEOMF and the National Law Enforcement Museum are expanded and enhanced. This bill will save police lives and help forge a closer relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve. It's an important pro-law enforcement bill  - one that we strongly endorse and support.”

Background:

The National Law Enforcement Officers Remembrance, Support, and Community Outreach Act would support initiatives to memorialize and honor law enforcement officers, collect and analyze data on law enforcement fatalities and injuries, increase public understanding of and support for law enforcement, enhance officer safety and wellness, and strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. The legislation would authorize $6 million annually for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund over seven fiscal years.

The bill is supported by numerous law enforcement and public safety organizations including: The National Law Enforcement Remembrance, Support and Community Outreach Act is supported by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund's board member organizations, including the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, Fraternal Order of Police, Fraternal Order of Police Auxiliary, International Brotherhood of Police Officers, International Union of Police Associations/AFL-CIO, Motorola Solutions, Verizon, National Association of Police Organizations, National Sheriffs’ Associations, COPS, DuPont, National Black Police Association, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, National Policing Institute, National Troopers Coalition, Police Executive Research Forum, Police Unity Tour, and the United Federation of Police Officers.

Full text of the bill is available HERE. 

 

###

]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-blumenthal-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-honor-law-enforcement-and-strengthen-officer-safety Fri, 30 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis Statement on the Nomination of Kevin Warsh for Federal Reserve Chairman]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-statement-on-the-nomination-of-kevin-warsh-for-federal-reserve-chairman WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, released the following statement regarding the nomination of Kevin Warsh to serve as Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System:

“Kevin Warsh is a qualified nominee with a deep understanding of monetary policy. However, the Department of Justice continues to pursue a criminal investigation into Chairman Jerome Powell based on committee testimony that no reasonable person could construe as possessing criminal intent. Protecting the independence of the Federal Reserve from political interference or legal intimidation is non-negotiable.

“My position has not changed: I will oppose the confirmation of any Federal Reserve nominee, including for the position of Chairman, until the DOJ’s inquiry into Chairman Powell is fully and transparently resolved.” 

 ###

]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, released the following statement regarding the nomination of Kevin Warsh to serve as Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System:

“Kevin Warsh is a qualified nominee with a deep understanding of monetary policy. However, the Department of Justice continues to pursue a criminal investigation into Chairman Jerome Powell based on committee testimony that no reasonable person could construe as possessing criminal intent. Protecting the independence of the Federal Reserve from political interference or legal intimidation is non-negotiable.

“My position has not changed: I will oppose the confirmation of any Federal Reserve nominee, including for the position of Chairman, until the DOJ’s inquiry into Chairman Powell is fully and transparently resolved.” 

 ###

]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-statement-on-the-nomination-of-kevin-warsh-for-federal-reserve-chairman Fri, 30 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis Applauds Appointment of NC Agricultural Leaders to USDA Farm Service Agency State Committee]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-applauds-appointment-of-nc-agricultural-leaders-to-usda-farm-service-agency-state-committee WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) applauded the appointment of five leaders in agriculture to serve on the North Carolina USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) state committee.  

“North Carolina’s farmers and producers deserve leaders who understand agriculture from the ground up, and these appointees bring decades of real-world experience to the board,” said Senator Tillis. “I was proud to nominate these outstanding agricultural leaders and appreciate Secretary Rollins appointing them to help ensure USDA programs are delivered fairly and efficiently while supporting rural communities and strengthening North Carolina’s agricultural economy.”

Each FSA state committee is comprised of three to five members including a designated chairperson. The individuals appointed to serve on this committee for North Carolina are:  

Jeffrey Claybourne Lee, Chair (Benson) - Lee is the owner, president, and chief executive officer of his farm, where he manages tobacco, sweet potato, and cotton production. He implements conservation tillage, precision guidance, and nutrient banding practices to improve crop quality and land stewardship. Lee previously served on the North Carolina FSA state committee. 

Steve Leggett Griffin, Member (Washington) – Griffin is the president and owner of his farm, where he manages a diversified crop and farming operation. He previously served on the Beaufort FSA County committee.  

Joseph Brent Leggett, Member (Nashville) – Leggett is the owner and operator of his farm, where he manages a diversified row crop operation that produces tobacco, sweet potatoes, cotton, peanuts, and other crops. He’s responsible for agronomic and strategic management, workforce oversight, and long-term sustainability.   

Richard Paul Renegar, Member (Harmony) – Renegar operates a diversified family farm in Iredell and Yadkin Counties, producing beef cattle, tobacco, row crops, and hay. He diversified into farm equipment sales and agritourism with hunting preserves and sporting clays. He is currently president of the Iredell County Farm Bureau Board, a director of the North Carolina State Farm Bureau Board, and a voting delegate to the American Farm Bureau Federation. He previously served on the North Carolina FSA state committee.  

Faylene Whitehead Whitaker, Member (Climax) – Whitaker is co-founder and operator of a diversified family enterprise that produces tobacco, corn, wheat, strawberries, vegetables, and greenhouse tomatoes. The operation expanded into agritourism, landscaping, two garden centers, a bakery, and equipment sales. She previously served on the North Carolina FSA state committee for eight years and has also served on her FSA county committee.

Background:

FSA helps America’s farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners invest in, improve, protect, and expand their agricultural operations through the delivery of agricultural programs for all Americans. FSA implements agricultural policy, administers credit and loan programs, and manages conservation, commodity, disaster recovery, and marketing programs through a national network of state and county offices and locally elected county committees. Each FSA state committee is comprised of three to five members, including a designated chairperson.

###

]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) applauded the appointment of five leaders in agriculture to serve on the North Carolina USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) state committee.  

“North Carolina’s farmers and producers deserve leaders who understand agriculture from the ground up, and these appointees bring decades of real-world experience to the board,” said Senator Tillis. “I was proud to nominate these outstanding agricultural leaders and appreciate Secretary Rollins appointing them to help ensure USDA programs are delivered fairly and efficiently while supporting rural communities and strengthening North Carolina’s agricultural economy.”

Each FSA state committee is comprised of three to five members including a designated chairperson. The individuals appointed to serve on this committee for North Carolina are:  

Jeffrey Claybourne Lee, Chair (Benson) - Lee is the owner, president, and chief executive officer of his farm, where he manages tobacco, sweet potato, and cotton production. He implements conservation tillage, precision guidance, and nutrient banding practices to improve crop quality and land stewardship. Lee previously served on the North Carolina FSA state committee. 

Steve Leggett Griffin, Member (Washington) – Griffin is the president and owner of his farm, where he manages a diversified crop and farming operation. He previously served on the Beaufort FSA County committee.  

Joseph Brent Leggett, Member (Nashville) – Leggett is the owner and operator of his farm, where he manages a diversified row crop operation that produces tobacco, sweet potatoes, cotton, peanuts, and other crops. He’s responsible for agronomic and strategic management, workforce oversight, and long-term sustainability.   

Richard Paul Renegar, Member (Harmony) – Renegar operates a diversified family farm in Iredell and Yadkin Counties, producing beef cattle, tobacco, row crops, and hay. He diversified into farm equipment sales and agritourism with hunting preserves and sporting clays. He is currently president of the Iredell County Farm Bureau Board, a director of the North Carolina State Farm Bureau Board, and a voting delegate to the American Farm Bureau Federation. He previously served on the North Carolina FSA state committee.  

Faylene Whitehead Whitaker, Member (Climax) – Whitaker is co-founder and operator of a diversified family enterprise that produces tobacco, corn, wheat, strawberries, vegetables, and greenhouse tomatoes. The operation expanded into agritourism, landscaping, two garden centers, a bakery, and equipment sales. She previously served on the North Carolina FSA state committee for eight years and has also served on her FSA county committee.

Background:

FSA helps America’s farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners invest in, improve, protect, and expand their agricultural operations through the delivery of agricultural programs for all Americans. FSA implements agricultural policy, administers credit and loan programs, and manages conservation, commodity, disaster recovery, and marketing programs through a national network of state and county offices and locally elected county committees. Each FSA state committee is comprised of three to five members, including a designated chairperson.

###

]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-applauds-appointment-of-nc-agricultural-leaders-to-usda-farm-service-agency-state-committee Tue, 13 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis Statement on Federal Reserve Nominations]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-statement-on-federal-reserve-nominations WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, issued the following statement:

“If there were any remaining doubt whether advisers within the Trump Administration are actively pushing to end the independence of the Federal Reserve, there should now be none. It is now the independence and credibility of the Department of Justice that are in question.  

“I will oppose the confirmation of any nominee for the Fed—including the upcoming Fed Chair vacancy—until this legal matter is fully resolved.”

 

###

 

]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, issued the following statement:

“If there were any remaining doubt whether advisers within the Trump Administration are actively pushing to end the independence of the Federal Reserve, there should now be none. It is now the independence and credibility of the Department of Justice that are in question.  

“I will oppose the confirmation of any nominee for the Fed—including the upcoming Fed Chair vacancy—until this legal matter is fully resolved.”

 

###

 

]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-statement-on-federal-reserve-nominations Sun, 11 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis, Colleagues Demand Accountability From Governor Walz Over Child Care Fraud]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-colleagues-demand-accountability-from-governor-walz-over-child-care-fraud WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) and his Republican Senate colleagues recently sent a letter to Governor Tim Walz (D-MN) demanding accountability amid widespread reports of fraud and abuse of federal child care funding in Minnesota.

“We write to express serious concern regarding recent reports and federal investigations alleging widespread fraud and misuse of federal funds within Minnesota’s state-administered child care assistance programs. The state’s apparent negligent management of federal funds raises significant concerns about the adequacy of the state’s oversight, verification, and compliance systems for safeguarding taxpayer dollars intended to support vulnerable children and working families. Unfortunately, these latest reports appear to reflect only the tip of the iceberg,” the senators wrote.  

“Federal prosecutors have been conducting a broader investigation of large-scale fraud in Minnesota’s social services programs. Some authorities estimate that billions in federal funds across various programs, including child care, nutrition, Medicaid, and housing assistance, may have been misappropriated since 2018. One example includes the Feeding Our Futurescheme, where more than 50 individuals were convicted for diverting hundreds of millions of dollars in pandemic relief funds intended for school meals,” the senators continued.  

“Under the leadership of President Trump, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has acted promptly to freeze child care payments to Minnesota pending verification and audits of how funds were used. The Constitution grants Congress the power of the purse, and the United States Senate is exercising its duty to ensure proper stewardship of federal taxpayer dollars for child care programs, and we take this responsibility very seriously,” the senators concluded.  

Full text of the letter is available HERE.

 

###

]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) and his Republican Senate colleagues recently sent a letter to Governor Tim Walz (D-MN) demanding accountability amid widespread reports of fraud and abuse of federal child care funding in Minnesota.

“We write to express serious concern regarding recent reports and federal investigations alleging widespread fraud and misuse of federal funds within Minnesota’s state-administered child care assistance programs. The state’s apparent negligent management of federal funds raises significant concerns about the adequacy of the state’s oversight, verification, and compliance systems for safeguarding taxpayer dollars intended to support vulnerable children and working families. Unfortunately, these latest reports appear to reflect only the tip of the iceberg,” the senators wrote.  

“Federal prosecutors have been conducting a broader investigation of large-scale fraud in Minnesota’s social services programs. Some authorities estimate that billions in federal funds across various programs, including child care, nutrition, Medicaid, and housing assistance, may have been misappropriated since 2018. One example includes the Feeding Our Futurescheme, where more than 50 individuals were convicted for diverting hundreds of millions of dollars in pandemic relief funds intended for school meals,” the senators continued.  

“Under the leadership of President Trump, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has acted promptly to freeze child care payments to Minnesota pending verification and audits of how funds were used. The Constitution grants Congress the power of the purse, and the United States Senate is exercising its duty to ensure proper stewardship of federal taxpayer dollars for child care programs, and we take this responsibility very seriously,” the senators concluded.  

Full text of the letter is available HERE.

 

###

]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-colleagues-demand-accountability-from-governor-walz-over-child-care-fraud Fri, 09 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000 <![CDATA[Tillis Announces New Chief of Staff]]> https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-announces-new-chief-of-staff WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) announced that Daniel Keylin, a longtime advisor and veteran of his communications team, will replace Shil B. Patel as his new Chief of Staff.

Daniel Keylin has served in various leadership roles with Senator Tillis since his 2014 campaign, most recently as Senior Advisor, where he played a central role in shaping the Senator’s legislative, political, and outreach strategies.  

“Daniel Keylin has been a deeply trusted advisor of mine for more than a decade,” said Senator Tillis. “From playing critical roles in the execution of my 2014 and 2020 campaigns to demonstrating a confident command of legislative policy and communications in the Senate, especially during challenging times, Daniel brings the leadership and strategic mindset that this role demands. We still have a great deal to accomplish on behalf of North Carolina, and Daniel is the right leader to help deliver more results.”

Senator Tillis also expressed his deep gratitude to outgoing Chief of Staff Shil Patel, who is departing to become President of Ranger Global, a Los Angeles-based investment firm run by Alexander von Furstenberg.

“Shil has been an invaluable leader on my team over the years,” Senator Tillis continued. “Few people in Washington possess the depth of banking and macroeconomic policy expertise that Shil brings, and what truly sets him apart is his ability to navigate the intersection of policy and politics to get things done. I am grateful for his years of service, leadership, and friendship, and I look forward to seeing him succeed in the next chapter of his career.”

Patel has served Senator Tillis in various capacities over the last nine years, including as Legislative Director and Economic Policy Advisor, before being named Chief of Staff in 2022. He started his Congressional career working for Senator David Perdue, and previously worked at the Federal Reserve in Banking Supervision and the Northern Trust Corporation in asset management. Patel will remain in Washington, D.C. and will be active in policy and political initiatives in his new role. 

 

###

]]> WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) announced that Daniel Keylin, a longtime advisor and veteran of his communications team, will replace Shil B. Patel as his new Chief of Staff.

Daniel Keylin has served in various leadership roles with Senator Tillis since his 2014 campaign, most recently as Senior Advisor, where he played a central role in shaping the Senator’s legislative, political, and outreach strategies.  

“Daniel Keylin has been a deeply trusted advisor of mine for more than a decade,” said Senator Tillis. “From playing critical roles in the execution of my 2014 and 2020 campaigns to demonstrating a confident command of legislative policy and communications in the Senate, especially during challenging times, Daniel brings the leadership and strategic mindset that this role demands. We still have a great deal to accomplish on behalf of North Carolina, and Daniel is the right leader to help deliver more results.”

Senator Tillis also expressed his deep gratitude to outgoing Chief of Staff Shil Patel, who is departing to become President of Ranger Global, a Los Angeles-based investment firm run by Alexander von Furstenberg.

“Shil has been an invaluable leader on my team over the years,” Senator Tillis continued. “Few people in Washington possess the depth of banking and macroeconomic policy expertise that Shil brings, and what truly sets him apart is his ability to navigate the intersection of policy and politics to get things done. I am grateful for his years of service, leadership, and friendship, and I look forward to seeing him succeed in the next chapter of his career.”

Patel has served Senator Tillis in various capacities over the last nine years, including as Legislative Director and Economic Policy Advisor, before being named Chief of Staff in 2022. He started his Congressional career working for Senator David Perdue, and previously worked at the Federal Reserve in Banking Supervision and the Northern Trust Corporation in asset management. Patel will remain in Washington, D.C. and will be active in policy and political initiatives in his new role. 

 

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]]> Press Releases https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2026/1/tillis-announces-new-chief-of-staff Mon, 05 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000