What they’re saying: Alabama delegation reacts to Donald Trump’s acquittal
The Senate impeachment trial of President Donald Trump came to a close on Wednesday, with a simple majority Senators voting along party lines to acquit the President on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. Here’s what the Alabama delegation is saying about Trump’s acquittal: Sen. Richard Shelby *voted to acquit the President Today I joined the majority of my Senate colleagues in justly voting to acquit the President of both impeachment charges. Throughout this process, I had the opportunity to hear arguments from the House managers and the President’s counsel, review the presented evidence, and study relevant portions of the Constitution. After several days of deliberation, I believe that neither charge constitutes an impeachable offense as defined by our Framers. The House managers’ case was nothing more than an abuse of the power of impeachment itself. For the sake of the American people, it is time to put this behind us and move on. I look forward to getting back to our legislative duties for the good of our country. Sen. Doug Jones Senators are to make tough choices. We must study the facts & exercise independent judgment in keeping with our oaths. I’ve studied the record for months. Unfortunately I believe the President abused his power for his own benefit. 1st District U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne President Trump has been exonerated. Democrats should finally accept the results of the 2016 election and move on. Congress has wasted untold time, effort and taxpayer money on this partisan sham, and we should get back to work immediately by turning to issues that actually matter to the American people. Years from now, history will see Nancy Pelosi’s abuse of the impeachment power to weaken Donald Trump as a stain on her legacy, but I predict the American people will make Democrats regret this baseless partisan witch hunt as soon as this November. 2nd District U.S. Rep. Martha Roby President Trump has been exonerated. Democrats should finally accept the results of the 2016 election and move on. Congress has wasted untold time, effort and taxpayer money on this partisan sham, and we should get back to work immediately by turning to issues that actually matter to the American people. Years from now, history will see Nancy Pelosi’s abuse of the impeachment power to weaken Donald Trump as a stain on her legacy, but I predict the American people will make Democrats regret this baseless partisan witch hunt as soon as this November. 3rd District U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers After three years, the Democrats’ attempted coup based on lies and falsehoods has finally failed. I applaud the Senate for putting an end to this baseless witch hunt. Shame on Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Congressman Adam Schiff for putting our nation through such a travesty of justice solely for their petty political purposes. Democrats are not only sore losers from the 2016 election, but also jealous of the phenomenal job and many accomplishments of President Trump. Democrats need to get over it and accept the fact that Donald Trump is our president. 4th District U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt Now that the President has been rightfully acquitted, it’s time to move on. With this behind us, this is a new beginning for the President and our nation to focus on growing our economy, strengthening our military and restoring our values. America can lead this century just like we led the last century. I call on all Americans to join with us to work towards an even better and brighter future. 5th District U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks Impeachment was a gigantic waste of time and taxpayer dollars. Socialist Democrats should be ashamed for foisting this unfortunate, political distraction on the unwilling American people. Now that President Trump has rightly been acquitted, exonerated, and completely vindicated, I hope we can return to focusing on the public policy issues that face America. 6th District U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer Thankfully, the impeachment charade came to an end today. The Senate just voted to acquit President Trump on both articles, so if Speaker Pelosi is interested in ripping up documents not grounded in the truth, she should find the articles of impeachment that have been rightly rejected and rip up those. It’s time to get back to work on that bright future that President Trump brilliantly laid out in his speech last night. 7th District U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell The President abused his power when he solicited foreign intervention in our elections and the House managers made a clear case to convict. The Senate’s vote today after a sham trial marks a dark day in our nation’s history. Our democracy will not fight for itself. It does not have a voice – but YOU do. We must all #DefendOurDemocracy this November. Let’s take this fight to the ballot box. Because in the United States of America, right matters.
Alabama’s delegation sworn in for 116th Congress
Alabama’s nine federal lawmakers — two Senators and seven Representatives — took their oaths of office Thursday as the 116th Congress got underway. Here’s what they had to say about their swearing-in: U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby: As we begin the 116th Congress, I look forward to continuing to serve the American people and welcome my eight new colleagues in the Senate. Let’s get to work! #116thCongress 2nd District U.S. Rep. Martha Roby: I am honored and deeply humbled to represent Alabama’s Second District in Congress and serve as a voice for our shared conservative priorities. With every vote I cast, my guiding principle is that Alabama always comes first. From supporting Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base and Fort Rucker to improving veterans’ health care and advancing smart agriculture policy, I will continue to fight for the issues that impact Alabamians. 5th District U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks: As the 116th Congress begins its work, I am deeply honored to again have the opportunity to serve the people of Alabama’s Fifth Congressional District. As a Congressman, I have fought hard to defend the foundational principles that have made America the greatest nation in world history. I will continue to fight for those values in the face of stiff and majority-controlling Socialist Democrats in the 116th Congress. In particular, I will work to rein in out-of-control Washington spending, secure America’s borders and elections, defend free-enterprise policies from a strong and dangerous but naïve Socialist agenda, while also promoting strong national security and technological advancement NASA promotes for the benefit of all. The prosperity and freedom of America’s future generations is at stake. I appreciate the trust citizens of the Tennessee Valley have placed in me, and I look forward to a fifth term in the U.S. House. 6th District Rep. Gary Palmer: It was a great honor and privilege to stand on the House floor for the third time and pledge to support and defend the U.S. Constitution,” Palmer said. “I look forward to continuing to serve the people of Alabama’s Sixth District in Washington and pursuing sound policies for the good of the country during the 116th Congress. There is much to do over the next two years and I am eager to get back to work. 7th District U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell: I am deeply honored to represent the constituents of Alabama’s 7th District here in the House of Representatives. As Democrats take the majority in the 116th Congress, we have work to do advancing priorities from wage growth to infrastructure investment to affordable health care. American voters have also made democracy reform a top issue, and in the new Congress I hope to secure broad support for passage of the Voting Rights Advancement Act, a bill which strengthens voter access to the polls and combats discrimination in our elections. Today I am deeply moved to see the most diverse Congress in history sworn into office. We deserve a Congress that reflects the diversity of the American public, and last year I fought to break down barriers for women and working candidates running for office. The 102 women who were sworn into the House today are a testament to the power of the women who have marched, protested, and voted for their seat at the table. Watch the full House swearing-in ceremony below:
Alabama delegation throws support behind Port of Mobile improvements
The Port of Mobile is Alabama’s only deep-water port. It moves around 54 million tons of cargo per year — a volume that consistently ranks the port within the top dozen or so ports in the nation. On Monday, the Alabama congressional delegation, as part of a bipartisan and bicameral effort, endorsed the modernization of the port’s navigation channel. U.S. Senator Richard Shelby led the delegation letter. In addition to Shelby, the letter was signed by the entirety of the Alabama delegation: U.S. Senator Doug Jones (D-Ala.), as well as U.S. Reps. Robert Aderholt, Mike Rogers, Mo Brooks, Martha Roby, Terri Sewell, Bradley Byrne and Gary Palmer. The Alabama lawmakers submitted comments to the Mobile District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) in support of the Tentatively Selected Plan (TSP) identified in the Draft Mobile Harbor, Mobile, Ala. Integrated General Reevaluation Report (GRR) with Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS). Due to increased vessel size and channel transit inefficiencies issues, the federal Mobile Harbor Channel is currently undergoing a GRR by the Corps to deepen and widen its navigation channel. The TSP identified in the Draft GRR/SEIS recommends deepening the existing channels by 5 feet, incorporating bend easings in the Bar Channel, widening the Bay Channel from 400 feet to 500 feet for 3 nautical miles, and expanding the Choctaw Pass Turning Basin to better accommodate the safe turning of large vessels. The GRR is currently on schedule to conclude in November 2019. The letter reads in part, “Modernizing the capabilities of one of the nation’s largest seaports will spur exponential economic investment by allowing larger ships and more goods to be shipped and sold, facilitating and expanding commerce. We believe that the TSP accomplishes these goals in a manner that is economically and environmentally responsible, and encourage the Corps to move forward to attain the Agency Decision Milestone and to expeditiously deepen and widen the federal channel.” “The deepening and widening of the Port of Mobile will provide economic development opportunities throughout the entire state of Alabama,” said Shelby. “This project will create an avenue for exponential growth by facilitating and expanding commerce in the state. I look forward to continuing our work with the Corps as we strive to improve the safety and efficiency of the Port in an increasingly global marketplace.” “Alabama is a trade state and the modernization of the Port of Mobile is key to our economic future,” said Jones. “I’m proud to join Senator Shelby and my colleagues in fighting for Alabama farmers and businesses and supporting their efforts to secure new opportunities brought by a wider, deeper port. This is an important step forward in our efforts to maximize the competitive advantage of Alabama’s farmers, shippers, and manufacturers.” “While the Port of Mobile might seem like a long way from the 4th Congressional District in North Alabama, it is vitally important to the area I serve. Two large rivers in the 4th District, the Coosa and the Black Warrior, both flow into Mobile Bay, making the bay and these two rivers critically important for the economy of my district and our entire state,” said Aderholt. “I support the Port of Mobile and was pleased to sign on to Senator Shelby’s letter to the Army Corps. In my congressional district, both the agriculture and automobile industries will greatly benefit from the modernization,” said Rogers. “I appreciate Senator Shelby’s leadership on this important issue, and am always pleased to work with the Alabama delegation,” said Brooks. “As the 10th largest seaport in the United States, the Port of Mobile is a huge economic driver for our state, and I fully support efforts to modernize and improve the capabilities of this vital port.” “The Port of Mobile is vitally important to economic growth throughout the State of Alabama and the surrounding region,” said Roby. “I am pleased to support this effort to make more resources available as we work to expand the capabilities of this seaport. I am proud to work alongside Senator Shelby and the rest of Alabama’s congressional delegation to invest in and support our growing economy and its future needs.” “Investments in Alabama’s trade infrastructure give our state a competitive advantage in today’s global marketplace,” added Sewell. “I am proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to invest in infrastructure projects that bring better jobs and better wages to our state. The Port of Mobile is an economic engine in Alabama, and the plan drafted by the Army Corps of Engineers would modernize its facilities, expand commerce, and secure our port’s future.” “The Port of Mobile is critical to Southwest Alabama, but it plays just as important a role throughout the rest of our state. The deepening and widening project will greatly expand the capabilities at the Port and the overall economic potential – meaning a win for all of us. I appreciate the work Senator Shelby and our Alabama delegation has put in to move the project forward, and I will continue working with stakeholders at all levels to ensure the project remains on track,” said Byrne. “I have long supported the expansion of the Port of Mobile and think transportation will be greatly improved as a result of it,” said Palmer. The full text of the letter is as follows: Dear Colonel Joly, We write to offer our comments in support of the Tentatively Selected Plan (TSP) identified in the Draft Mobile Harbor, Mobile, Alabama Integrated General Reevaluation Report with Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement. The Port of Mobile (Port), operated by the Alabama State Port Authority (Authority), is currently the 10th largest seaport in the United States and has been identified as the fastest growth container terminal in North America. In any given year, between 52-67 million tons of cargo moves through the Port. The Authority’s container, general cargo and bulk facilities have immediate access to two interstate systems, five Class 1 railroads, and 15,000 miles of inland waterway connections. To keep up with demand,
Here’s how the Alabama delegation voted for the $1.3 trillion government funding bill
Shortly after midnight, the U.S. Senate passed a $1.3 trillion spending package that will keep the government funded through the end of September. The move avoided a government shutdown. The measure strengthens America’s national defense by making the largest investment in our Armed Forces since the beginning of the War on Terror. It provides a pay raise for the troops, funds new weapon systems, and invests heavily in measures designed to counter threats from ISIL and North Korea. Additionally, the legislation cares for our veterans by providing record level VA funding. The bill also provides $4.6 billion to combat the opioid crisis, which will be spread across agencies for the purpose of opioid prevention, treatment, and enforcement. To renew America’s aging infrastructure, the legislation includes more than $21.2 billion in new infrastructure funding to ensure public safety, create efficiencies, and promote economic growth. This includes investment in rural infrastructure, including a new initiative for areas without broadband access. Further, the bill secures the homeland with adequate funding to fight terrorism, enhance criminal law enforcement, and secure U.S. borders – dedicating $1.57 billion toward physical barriers on the southern border, in addition to added funding for immigration enforcement. The legislation also safeguards America’s students by providing more than $2 billion in mental health, training, and school safety efforts to keep our kids and schools safe. It also contains the STOP School Violence Act to help ensure lifesaving resources are available to states and schools to stop violence before it happens. The stopgap spending measure passed the Senate by a vote of 65-32, after advancing in the House of Representatives hours earlier by a vote of 256-167. The measure will now head to the President’s desk to be signed into law. Here’s how the Alabama delegation voted and what they have to say about the legislation: U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby: This measure will deliver the resources and certainty that the American military deserves, specifically the largest year-to-year increase in defense funding in 15 years. After a lack of investment to our nation’s Armed Services, Congress is working to strengthen our national defense. The legislation also contains a host of important victories on behalf of the American people, such as fighting the opioid epidemic, rebuilding America’s aging infrastructure, protecting the American people by securing the homeland, and safeguarding our students. I am proud that the Senate has passed this strong bill. U.S. Sen. Doug Jones: No statement made. Voted in favor of the bill. Ala. 1st District U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne: With today’s vote, we are finally getting the resources to our military men and women they need to keep our nation safe… Very important to me, this bill funds the construction of three Littoral Combat Ships and one Expeditionary Fast Transport. It also supports the various other military programs and installations across Alabama. The bill paves the way for new road projects, like the I-10 Bridge, while also ensuring resources for improvements to the Port of Mobile, other road projects, and expansion of rural broadband initiatives. It includes strong funding levels for vital coastal ecosystem programs and makes critical investments for Alabama’s farmers and foresters. At the end of the day, I am confident Alabama is a big winner in this funding bill. Ala. 2nd District U.S. Rep. Martha Roby: No statement made. Voted in favor of the bill. Ala. 3rd District U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers: No statement made. Voted in favor of the bill. Ala. 4th District U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt: No statement made. Voted in favor of the bill. Ala. 5th District U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks: No statement made. Voted against the bill. Ala. 6th District U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer: While I strongly support the increased funding for our military, I could not in good conscience vote for the Omnibus that costs almost $1.3 trillion. The military threats to our national security are real and serious, but so is the fiscal threat to our national security. As a result of years of deficit spending, trillions have been added to our national debt, which recently reached $21 trillion for the first time. Eventually the bill will come due with major consequences for our nation. Ala. 7th District U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell: Today’s vote to keep the government open for the rest of the fiscal year and fund critical public services is an important step forward and a testament to effective, bipartisan cooperation. On issues ranging from healthcare to infrastructure to education, this bill takes a commonsense approach to addressing some of the biggest challenges my constituents and many Americans face.
Alabama delegations weighs in on GOP’s massive tax cut plan
As congressional Republicans unveiled a sweeping tax reform plan on Thursday, Alabama’s congressional delegation by and large came out in support of it. While 5th District U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks and 6th District U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer have yet to weigh in, the rest of the Republicans in the delegation came out in support of the $1.51 trillion plan to simplify the country’s tax code. The delegation’s lone Democrat 7th District U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell opposes the plan, which lowers the corporate tax rate from 35 percent to 20 percent, while reducing the number of tax brackets for individuals from seven to four — 12, 25, 35, and 39.6 percent. It also doubles the standard deduction for individuals and families, but caps deductions for both local and state taxes. Additionally it repeals the estate tax in six years. Congressional Republicans championed the measure at the plan’s unveiling. “This is it America,” said Texas-Republican, House Ways and Means Chair Kevin Brady at a press conference. “It is our opportunity to make tax reform a reality.” President Donald Trump applauded the release of the plan in a statement shortly after the bill was presented. There he took the opportunity to preemptively hit back at possible critics of the legislation. “I applaud the House Ways and Means Committee for introducing the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which is another important step toward providing massive tax relief for the American people,” said Trump. “The special interests will distort the facts, the lobbyists will try to save their special deals, and some in the media will unfairly report on our efforts.” Here’s what the Alabama delegation has to say about the tax cut proposal: Alabama 1st District U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne: Tax reform has the potential to make America boom again, and it starts with putting more money in the pockets of hardworking Americans. The current tax code is too complicated and confusing, benefiting the elite while making things harder for American families. It is time for a fairer and simpler tax code that supports new jobs right here in the United States. We need to get this right, and I look forward to working with President Trump to do just that. We cannot pass up this historic opportunity to reform our outdated tax code and unlock our full economic potential. Alabama 2nd District U.S. Rep. Martha Roby: This is a unique and exciting opportunity to deliver on our promise and give the American people the results they deserve. Our tax reform plan will grow the economy, create jobs here in the United States, and allow hardworking taxpayers to keep more of their money in their pocket. An average family with about 60,000 dollars in household income would see their federal tax bill drop by about $1,200. For the people I represent, this can make a big difference. For that mom working a retail job or the dad driving the truck or that single parent working two or three jobs just to make ends meet, having an extra $1,000 in your pocket is a big deal. I promise you hardworking taxpayers know how to spend their money better than the government does. Alabama 3rd District U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers: Hard-working American families deserve to take home more of their hard-earned paychecks, and President Trump’s tax plan will help make that happen. Alabama 4th District U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt: The tax bill released today is a good start, as it refocuses our tax code on today’s economy. Our current system was put in place when most Americans had never heard of the internet, the only phone they had was attached to the wall at home and Bill Curry and Pat Dye were coaching at Alabama and Auburn. It’s time for a tax code that puts working Americans first. More than 80% of the people in my district will see their tax burden drop, and to me, that is a good thing. Alabama 7th District U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell: After months of secret negotiations, it should come as no surprise that the tax plan revealed by Republican leaders today is a raw deal for Alabama and for working families across this nation. The Republican tax bill will raise costs on families who can least afford it while providing wealthy individuals and special interests a windfall in tax breaks. In order to pay for what would be the largest tax giveaway to special interests in American history, the Republican tax plan makes cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and the programs that middle-class families rely on. We cannot afford poorly targeted tax cuts and we cannot afford to miss our chance for true bipartisan tax reform. While I disagree with a number of the points in today’s tax plan, I will work with my colleagues to try to reshape this bill so that it helps working families and encourages growth across the entire economy in a fiscally-responsible way.
Alabama delegation reacts to Jeff Sessions testimony on Russia
Former Alabama U.S. Senator and current U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions appeared Tuesday at a public hearing before the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence to testify in the ongoing investigation into Russian tampering in the 2016 presidential election. Sessions’ hearing follows fired FBI Director James Comey‘s. Comey testified before the same committee less than a week ago. During the highly contentious hearing, Sessions said any suggestion he colluded with Russians during the election was an “appalling” lie. “Please, colleagues, hear me on this,” he said. Here’s what the Alabama delegation thought of their former Congressional colleague’s testimony: Sen. Luther Strange: My friend Jeff Sessions demonstrated today why the people of Alabama trust him and why President Donald Trump chose him to be our Attorney General – a complete commitment to integrity, transparency and the rule of law. I trust the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee to finish this investigation swiftly and allow Congress to return to the business of implementing President Trump’s agenda to repeal Obamacare, reform our tax code, rebuild our military and rollback red-tape. Alabama 1st District U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne: I am not at all surprised that the Jeff Sessions who testified today was the same Jeff Sessions I have known for almost forty years. He was honest, knowledgeable of the law, direct, and professional. I continue to have complete confidence and trust in him as he serves as our Attorney General. Alabama 2nd District U.S. Rep. Martha Roby: I applaud Attorney General Sessions for testifying publicly before the Senate Intelligence Committee. I’m glad he took the opportunity to forcefully defend himself and set the record straight amid unfair partisan attacks. I have always known Attorney General Sessions to be a man of the highest integrity, and he demonstrated that today. Alabama 3rd District U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers: Thank goodness for Jeff Sessions. He is a man of the highest integrity and honesty. The American people heard the truth today. Now it’s time for the liberal media elite and the Democrats to stop their frivolous attacks on President Trump so we can start the people’s work. Alabama 4th District U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt: Jeff Sessions testimony showed that he is not far removed from the Eagle Scout who grew up in Camden, Alabama. His testimony today was honest, open and direct. And just as the Scout oath says, I believe Sessions will continue to do his duty to God and to his country. If there is anything there, I certainly believe we need to get to the bottom of the attempts by the Russian government to influence our election process. However, I have still not seen a single piece of evidence that Russian interference changed a single vote back on November 8th and certainly not thousands of votes that were cast for Mr. Trump in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin. Alabama 5th District U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks: We have clear unambiguous testimony by Attorney General Jeff Sessions that he has in no way, shape, or form colluded with Russians concerning 2016 elections. It is time for the Democrat Party, Democrat elected officials, and the Democrat Communications Wing (the mainstream news media) to put up or shut up. If any of them have evidence – not hearsay, not gossip, not partisan-motivated lies – that conflicts with Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ sworn testimony, they must produce it or quit assassinating his character so that we can put this matter behind us. The American people deserve far better than the innuendo and falsities Democrats spread in a hyper-partisan effort to impugn the honor and integrity of Jeff Sessions, one of Alabama’s best. Alabama 6th District U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer: While I was unable to hear Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ testimony before the Senate Intelligence Committee, I am confident that he is a man of highest character and has conducted himself with the highest integrity. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has spent practically his entire career serving the people of the United States, first as a U.S. Attorney then as a U.S. Senator and now as Attorney General, and working faithfully to uphold the rule of law. Alabama 7th District U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell: Did not respond to request for comment
Alabama delegation weighs in on Robert Bentley resignation
Alabama Governor Robert Bentley resigned from office Monday afternoon following allegations he used state resources to cover up an affair he was having with one of his former aides. The Alabama Congressional delegation has released the following statements about Bentley’s resignation: Sen. Richard Shelby: The American people’s trust in their government depends on the integrity and dignity of those in office, and it is clear that Alabamians have lost this in Governor Bentley. As governor, Bentley was elected by the people of Alabama to the highest position of authority and should consequentially treat the office with the utmost respect. I believe he has made the right decision in offering his resignation. I look forward to working with Lieutenant Governor Kay Ivey in her new capacity as Governor of Alabama. Alabama 2nd District U.S. Rep. Martha Roby: Governor Bentley’s decision to resign was the right thing to do. The people of Alabama deserve leaders who are focused on the serious issues facing our state, and I look forward to better days ahead. Alabama 4th District U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt: Governor Bentley had to make a difficult choice in resigning today. However, I believe it was the right decision for a state I know he deeply loves. I thank Governor Bentley for his service to our state, in particular, the way he handled the devastation and loss of life after the April 27, 2011 tornado outbreak. I wish new Governor Kay Ivey the best and stand ready to help her in anyway I can to advance our state and help its people. Alabama 6th District U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer: I believe Robert Bentley resigning as Governor of Alabama was the appropriate decision. The people of Alabama deserve a leader who is above reproach and governs our great state without distractions. This action is the first step to allow the people of Alabama to finally move on from this situation.
Alabama reacts to Luther Strange US Senate appointment
State and federal lawmakers and officials across Alabama are reacting to Governor Robert Bentley‘s Thursday appointment of Alabama Attorney General Luther Strange to replace Jeff Sessions in the U.S. Senate. Here’s what they’re saying: Alabama U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby: The opportunity to serve the people of Alabama is a tremendous honor and privilege, and I am pleased that Governor Bentley took this appointment very seriously. Jeff Sessions leaves behind big shoes to fill in the Senate. I am confident that Luther will step in to this position seamlessly. Luther Strange is known for his unwavering commitment to the Constitution and the rule of law, which will continue to be critical in this new role. I have always known Luther to have the best interest of the state of Alabama in the forefront of his mind, and I look forward to partnering with him to fight for conservative principles in the Senate. Alabama 1st District U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne: I want to congratulate Luther Strange on his appointment to the United States Senate. I look forward to working with him to advance policies and legislation important to families and small businesses in Southwest Alabama. Alabama has always had a strong and united Congressional delegation, and I look forward to working with Luther to keep that tradition alive. Alabama 2nd District U.S. Rep. Martha Roby: I offer my sincere congratulations to Attorney General Strange on his appointment to the Senate. Alabama’s congressional delegation has a long history of working together to promote our state’s interests – from supporting our significant military footprint to looking out for Alabama farmers. I welcome Luther to the delegation, and I look forward to working with him. Alabama 5th District U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks: I know Luther Strange quite well, having gotten to know him both during campaigns and during his service as Alabama’s Attorney General. I look forward to working with Luther in the U.S. Senate and will do everything I can to help him be the best senator he can possibly be, both because he is my friend and because that is exactly what Alabama and America need at this critical junction in our history. Alabama Republican Party Chairman Terry Lathan: The Alabama Republican Party looks forward to working with our state’s new incoming United States Senator, Luther Strange. General Strange has done a tremendous job serving Alabama as our attorney general. General Strange has a strong record of standing on conservative principles as well as enforcing the laws of our state. We have no doubt he will continue his service to Alabama and our nation with the the highest integrity. It is an exciting time for our country as we have a strong Republican Congress that will work with our new president to Make America Great Again. General Strange will be in good company with Senator Shelby as they represent our state. Potential U.S. Senate appointee Perry O. Hooper Jr.: Last night I spoke with Governor Bentley about the US Senate Appointment. While I was not happy with the result I want to thank the Governor for even considering me for the position. It has been an honor and a privilege. I want to thank God for this opportunity and the many thousands of people that signed petitions, wrote letters and made calls on my behalf to the Governor. The faith you placed in me has really touched my heart and I am forever grateful for your support. I love this state and this country and my commitment to the people of Alabama remains the same. I will do everything I can to support President Trump and his agenda for America and Make America Great Again! Please continue with your prayers for our state, our nation and our leaders so that we may have peace and prosperity for all of our people.
Alabama delegation praises Jeff Sessions after day 1 of confirmation hearing
Shortly after the first day of Sen. Jeff Sessions‘ confirmation hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee, his Alabama colleagues were signing his praises saying the senator handled himself well and would make for a great attorney general. Here’s what the Alabama delegation had to say: Alabama Sen. Richard Shelby: While it was a long day of questioning, Senator Sessions was well-prepared and represented the state of Alabama admirably. Throughout today’s hearing, Jeff handled himself with the same humility and patience that has earned him the deep respect of his colleagues on both sides of the aisle. I am proud to call Jeff Sessions a dear friend and look forward to continuing to give him my unwavering support throughout the nomination process. He is a man of great integrity who will apply the law fairly to all Americans, and I have no doubt that he will be confirmed by the Judiciary Committee as well as the full Senate. Alabama 1st District U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne: Senator Sessions’ ethical nature, dedication to public service, and commitment to the rule of law shined throughout his confirmation hearing today. He showed great poise and a deep understanding on a wide range of important issues. The petty political attacks on his character fell flat, and Senator Sessions just further indicated why he is the perfect choice to lead the Justice Department. Alabama 2nd District U.S. Rep. Martha Roby: Senator Sessions really knocked it out of the park today. He was fully prepared and poised in the face of some pretty tough questioning. I’m glad that the American people are finally seeing in Jeff Sessions the principled, fair-minded leader that Alabamians have known for many years. I have no doubt the Senate will ultimately confirm Jeff Sessions as the next Attorney General of the United States. Alabama 3rd District U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers: Today, the country saw what we in Alabama have known for many years – Jeff Sessions is a man of great character. Jeff’s steady and honest performance in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee is exactly what I’d expect from him. His knowledge of the law is unmatched. He respects the rule of law, and as Attorney General he will bring integrity to the Department of Justice. I am proud to call Jeff a colleague and friend. Alabama 4th District U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt: Senator Sessions did a fantastic job today in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee. His knowledge of the law, his commitment to upholding the law, and his desire for justice was on full display today. He demonstrated what the people of Alabama already know, that he will make a great United States Attorney General. Alabama 5th District U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks: Senator Jeff Sessions made the State of Alabama proud with his display of honor and dignity during today’s U.S. Senate Attorney General confirmation hearing. I have been fortunate to know Senator Sessions for more than 20 years and admire him as a dedicated public servant of strong moral character, committed to upholding the rule of law. Today, Senator Sessions promised to restore respect and support for America’s law officers, protect religious freedoms across the country, and enforce federal immigration laws. President-elect Donald Trump selected the right man to serve as America’s next United States Attorney General and I look forward to his expeditious confirmation. Alabama 6th District U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer: I have always believed that Senator Jeff Sessions would make an excellent United States Attorney General. Today Senator Sessions showed the American people his outstanding record and that he is a man of deep and unwavering integrity. I am confident the Senate Judiciary Committee will come together and favorably report Senator Sessions’ appointment to be the next Attorney General. Under Senator Sessions’ leadership, the Department of Justice will uphold and enforce the laws and the Constitution. The Committee will reconvene Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. ET to resume its confirmation proceedings. No more testimony is expected from Senator Sessions himself. Live coverage of the hearing is available on Alabama Today.
Alabama delegation honors America’s veterans
On Veterans Day, Americans across the country salute our brave men and women in uniform who have sacrificed so much for our nation. Today, in honor of Veterans Day, members of the Alabama congressional delegation are paying tribute to their selfless service and sacrifices. Here’s what the Alabama delegation is saying in honor of Veterans Day: Sen. Richard Shelby: Each year, friends and neighbors across the country pause to honor our nation’s military heroes who selflessly sacrificed for the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. Veterans Day is an important time to remember that freedom does not come free, and that we owe a great debt of gratitude to the men and women of our Armed Forces for their extraordinary service. Ala. 1st District U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne: Earlier this week, we held an election to pick our nation’s next leader. That is an honor we all have thanks to the sacrifice and service of our nation’s veterans. These men and women put their lives on the line in order to keep us safe and protect the freedoms we all hold dear. Be sure to take time today to say thank you to a veteran, but let’s not just honor our veterans one day a year. Let’s honor our veterans each and every day. Their service demands nothing less. Ala. 2nd District U.S. Rep. Martha Roby: All we are as a nation – the freedom and opportunity we enjoy as Americans – we owe to the men and women who have put on the uniform and defended our country in times of conflict. Thank you to all veterans and their families for your service and sacrifice. Ala. 4th District U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt: “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.” – Ronald Reagan Ala. 5th District U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks: On this #VeteransDay2016 and every day we honor our nation’s military members for their selfless service in defense of America. It’s a privilege to represent #AL05 and support our veterans, active duty military personnel, and their families. Ala. 6th District U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer: As American citizens, we enjoy and exercise our freedom daily. But such privilege does not come without a steep cost. The valiant men and women of our Armed Services bravely defend our great nation daily from threats against our freedom, and they have thwarted off all enemies for well over 240 years. Without their service and their sacrifice, America would not be the great country it is today. I send my deepest thanks to every member of the Armed Forces, past, present and future. You are what makes America the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave. God Bless America and God Bless our veterans. Ala. 7th District U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell: Today, we pay tribute to the brave men and women who have laid down their lives to keep our country safe. These individuals – men and women, fathers, wives, sons and daughters – have fought and died to protect the values we hold dear as a nation. We owe them a sincere debt of gratitude for their tremendous bravery and selfless sacrifice. That is why it is critically important for Congress to continue to support and provide needed resources to the Veterans Administration (VA) to ensure that our veterans and their spouses or widowers have access to quality health care, good-paying jobs, affordable housing, and other benefits they have rightly earned. We should not deny the very liberties to these American heroes and their families that they have fought to protect.
Alabama Republicans pull support for Donald Trump
Friday’s bombshell release by the Washington Post of Donald Trump’s hot mic recording in which he brags about groping women without their consent to Access Hollywood host Billy Bush, has created a fallout of Republican support across the country. As of Saturday morning politicians who once supported the Republican presidential nominee are quickly reversing their opinions and condemning his candidacy, including some members of the Alabama delegation. Here’s what the delegation is saying about Trump’s remarks: Alabama 1st District U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne – withdraws support: Donald Trump’s comments regarding women were disgraceful and appalling. There are absolutely no circumstances under which it would ever be appropriate to speak of women in such a way. It is now clear Donald Trump is not fit to be President of the United States and cannot defeat Hillary Clinton. I believe he should step aside and allow Governor Pence to lead the Republican ticket. Alabama 2nd District U.S. Rep. Martha Roby – withdraws support: Donald Trump’s behavior makes him unacceptable as a candidate for president, and I won’t vote for him. As disappointed as I’ve been with his antics throughout this campaign, I thought supporting the nominee was the best thing for our country and our party. Now, it is abundantly clear that the best thing for our country and our party is for Trump to step aside and allow a responsible, respectable Republican to lead the ticket. Hillary Clinton must not be president, but, with Trump leading the ticket, she will be. Alabama 3rd District U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers: Has not responded to request for comment at this time. Alabama 4th District U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt: Has not responded to request for comment at this time. Alabama 5th District U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks: Has not responded to request for comment at this time. Alabama 6th District U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer – condemns Trump: As a husband and father of two daughters, I was dismayed and angered by the comments made by Mr. Trump in 2005. Even though he made those statements over a decade ago, they are extremely offensive and not representative of my values or the values of the American people. He was right to apologize, but without showing true contrition and asking for forgiveness the apology is not sufficient. Mr. Trump should seek forgiveness and give deep and serious consideration to what he should do in regard to what is best for our country. This article will be updated as additional comments come in.
Yeas and Nays – How the Alabama delegation voted this week: 1/8/16
Here’s a look at how the Alabama delegation voted on major issues this week in the U.S. House of Representatives. The U.S. Senate was not in session this week. House votes H.R. 3762: the Restoring Americans’ Healthcare Freedom Reconciliation Act. The bill repeals or significantly modifies numerous major provisions of Obamacare, including repeals of the individual and employer mandates, tax subsidies for individuals to purchase health insurance from exchanges, the expansion of Medicaid, and the Prevention and Public Health Fund. It also effectively eliminates more than a dozen taxes included in the law, including the medical device tax, the “Cadillac” tax, the net investment tax, and the additional Medicare tax. Finally it blocks federal funding for Planned Parenthood for one year and provides alternative women’s health funding for community health centers. Passed the House 240-181. Yea: Rep. Bradley Byrne (AL-01); Rep. Martha Roby (AL-02); Rep. Mike Rogers (AL-03); Rep. Robert Aderholt (AL-04); Rep. Mo Brooks (AL-05); Rep. Gary Palmer (AL-06) Nay: Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) H.R. 1155: the Searching for and Cutting Regulations That Are Unnecessarily Burdensome (SCRUB) Act. The bill establishes a nine-member commission to review existing federal regulations and identify those that should be repealed in order to reduce costs on the U.S. economy — including those that should be immediately repealed and those that should be repealed over time through a new regulatory “Cut-Go” system under which agencies could not issue new rules unless the cost of a new rule was offset by repealing existing rules identified by the commission. Passed the House 245-174. Yea: Rep. Bradley Byrne (AL-01); Rep. Martha Roby (AL-02); Rep. Mike Rogers (AL-03); Rep. Robert Aderholt (AL-04); Rep. Mo Brooks (AL-05); Rep. Gary Palmer (AL-06) Nay: Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) H.R. 712: the Sunshine for Regulatory Decrees and Settlements Act. The bill requires the federal government to provide advance public notice when it plans to enter into discussions regarding consent decree or settlement agreement, and allows affected third parties to intervene in that process. It also requires federal agencies to file monthly status reports of their rule-making activities and requires that a 100-word summary of each proposed rule be posted online, along with the proposed rule itself. Passed the House 244-173. Yea: Rep. Bradley Byrne (AL-01); Rep. Martha Roby (AL-02); Rep. Mike Rogers (AL-03); Rep. Robert Aderholt (AL-04); Rep. Mo Brooks (AL-05); Rep. Gary Palmer (AL-06) Nay: Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) H.R. 1927: the Fairness in Class Action Litigation and Furthering Asbestos Claim Transparency Act. The bill prohibits federal courts from certifying proposed classes of individuals for a class action lawsuit unless each member of the class has suffered the same type and degree of injury. Passed the House 211-188. Yea: Rep. Bradley Byrne (AL-01); Rep. Martha Roby (AL-02); Rep. Mike Rogers (AL-03); Rep. Robert Aderholt (AL-04); Rep. Mo Brooks (AL-05); Rep. Gary Palmer (AL-06) Nay: Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07)
