Senator Cramer’s Weekly Update January 12 - 23

Visit to Southern Border Highlights Major Security Gains Since President Trump's Election

Conditions were calm as I visited Yuma Proving Ground (YPG) to observe military testing operations and Department of Homeland Security activities along the U.S.–Mexico border. Accompanied by Assistant Chief Michael Wisniewski and Division Chief William Schaeck of the U.S. Border Patrol Yuma Sector, I evaluated the progress local agents have made in securing the region and enforcing U.S. immigration laws since the election of President Trump.

***Click here to watch my remarks. Click here for audio.***

During the tour, I observed the work of local Border Patrol agents and federal partners, witnessing the impact of modernized technology, targeted enforcement, and strengthened policies on illegal activities along the southern border.

When I visited the border previously, I witnessed the stream of illegal aliens invading the United States in the Rio Grande River Sector. At the time, DHS reported average monthly border encounters of nearly 160,000, with daily encounters reaching as high as 15,000.

In President Donald Trump’s first year alone, more than 2.5 million illegal immigrants have left the U.S. because of the administration’s crackdown on criminality. This includes an estimated 1.9 million self-deportations and more than 622,000 deportations.

Visit to Yuma Proving Ground Showcases Innovative Military Testing and Technology

I got an up-close look at the next generation technology the U.S. Army is developing at the Yuma Proving Ground (YPG) in Arizona. The Army’s premier large-scale test and evaluation center is a cornerstone of America’s national security. From artillery systems and aircraft to cutting-edge artificial intelligence technologies, YPG’s expansive, isolated ranges allow rapid testing of a wide spectrum of military equipment designed to keep America safe.

The visit to YPG showcased how the center's testing operations quickly analyze emerging threats to develop counter measures to keep American troops safe. YPG is at the forefront of counter–unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) testing and maintains a strong partnership with Joint Interagency Task Force 401. Established last August, the task force was created to consolidate resources and accelerate the delivery of affordable counter-drone capabilities designed to protect U.S. personnel and facilities both at home and abroad.

***Click here to watch my remarks. Click here for audio.***

The center plays a key role in supporting the delivery of new capabilities to the Army, joint services, and international partner forces. Its ranges, state-of-the-art technology, and expertise in evaluating military systems make it a unique asset in advancing the nation’s defense and security priorities.

Senate Passes Package of Three FY26 Appropriations Bills

Cuts Billions in Unnecessary, Wasteful Funding

By a vote of 82 to 15, the United States Senate passed three bipartisan Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) appropriations bills, cutting more than $10 billion in spending and funding the Departments of the Interior, Energy, Commerce and Justice. The minibus, which previously passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 397 to 28, invests in America’s energy dominance, combats violent crime, and supports critical water and infrastructure projects in North Dakota. The bill delivers on the Trump administration’s priorities, strengthens national security, puts taxpayers first, and keeps promises made to North Dakota and the American people.

Nation Participates in 2026 March for Life

Across the nation, tens of thousands gathered for the March for Life, uniting voices in support of protecting the unborn and defending the value of every life. I’m grateful for the marchers who traveled to Washington, D.C. to support the unborn, the sanctity of God’s greatest creation, and call attention to the ongoing moral decay hidden by the falsehood of choice.

I introduced the Unborn Child Support Act to give mothers the ability to receive child support payments while they are pregnant. I, along with U.S. Senators Katie Britt (R-AL) and Eric Schmitt (R-MO), introduced the More Opportunities for Moms (MOMS) Act to provide critical support to women during challenging phases of motherhood – prenatal, postpartum, and early childhood development – with resources and assistance necessary for mothers and their children to succeed and thrive. The MOMS Act includes my Unborn Child Support Act.

I also cosponsored the following pro-life bills and supported measures to ensure federal policy is consistent with pro-life principles:

U.S. Forces Kill Al-Qaeda Affiliate Leader Linked to ISIS Ambush on Americans in Syria

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced it conducted a strike in northwest Syria which killed Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, a leader affiliated with Al-Qaeda. According to CENTCOM, al-Jasim was an experienced terrorist leader who plotted attacks and had direct ties to the ISIS gunman responsible for killing and injuring American and Syrian personnel last month in Palmyra, Syria.

Nothing protects our troops better than President Donald Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who don’t stop until murderers like Bilal Hasan al-Jasim meet justice.

CENTCOM said it launched large-scale strikes in Syria following the Dec. 13 attack, carrying out an operation known as Hawkeye Strike. The campaign targeted more than 100 ISIS weapons depots and infrastructure sites, with U.S. and partner forces deploying over 200 precision-guided munitions.

Over the past year, the United States and its partners have also captured more than 300 ISIS operatives and killed more than 20 across Syria, actions CENTCOM said eliminated terrorists who posed a direct threat to U.S. forces and regional security.

President Trump Marks One-Year Anniversary of Second Term

One year ago, President Trump returned to the White House for his second term. The administration said in 365 days, "President Trump has delivered truly transformative results with the most accomplished first year of any presidential term in modern history."

From the first negative net migration in 50 years to the largest homicide drop on record, President Trump’s agenda has delivered rapid, measurable results. Trillions of dollars in re-shored investment are flowing back into the U.S., multiple conflicts have ended through new peace deals, energy production has hit record highs, and sweeping bureaucracy cuts are reshaping Washington.

In just 12 months, the Trump administration has delivered historic accomplishments, moving our country forward with a renewed sense of optimism for America’s future. Here's to a remarkable year and many more ahead!

Letter to President Trump Requests Favorable Pulse Crop Trade Deal with India

In the midst of President Trump’s ongoing trade negotiations with India, I wrote a letter cosigned by U.S. Senator Steve Daines (R-MT), requesting he push for favorable pulse crop provisions in any agreement our country signs with the Republic of India.

North Dakota and Montana are the top two producers of pulse crops, including peas, and India is the world’s largest consumer of these crops, contributing to approximately 27% of the world’s consumption. The most commonly consumed pulse crops in India are lentils, chickpeas, dried beans, and peas, yet they have levied substantial tariffs on American pulse crops.

According to U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, the U.S. and India are actively engaged in finalizing a new trade deal. The Trump administration launched negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) with India last year on Feb. 13, and in April, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) finalized its Terms of Reference for a BTA, establishing the roadwork for mutually beneficial, multi-sector negotiations. USTR found India’s average applied tariff rate on agriculture products was 39%, whereas the U.S. applied an average tariff of just 5% on agricultural goods. It also found technical barriers to trade, regulatory barriers, and restrictions on access to the market in certain sectors, including agriculture, have reduced U.S. exports to India.

As the United States looks to rebalance trade disparities, American farmers are ready to help fill the gap. They have tremendous capacity to feed and fuel the world if trade opportunities are unleashed. Engaging Prime Minister Modi on pulse crop tariffs to enhance the economic cooperation between our countries would be mutually beneficial to both American producers and Indian customers.

During my time in Congress, I have prioritized achieving favorable trade conditions for pulse crop producers. In 2020, I wrote a similar letter to President Trump, asking him to advocate for favorable provisions for American pulse crops in a trade deal with India. President Trump hand-delivered the letter from me and Senator Daines during his visit to India.

Grand Forks Air Force Base Selected to Lead Point Defense Battle Lab

The 319th Reconnaissance Wing at Grand Forks Air Force Base (GFAFB) has been selected to lead the Point Defense Battle Lab, which is designed to safeguard installations, protect vital assets, and ensure continuity of air operations. With support from Kansas Air National Guard’s 184th Wing, the Point Defense Battle Lab will support Air Combat Command’s Point Defense Task Force, a larger Counter Small Unmanned Aircraft System (C-sUAS) effort within the Department of the Air Force.

According to GFAFB, the Point Defense Battle Lab will serve as a hub for collaboration, pushing boundaries in C-sUAS capabilities, ensuring the Air Force maintains tactical superiority against evolving threats, and is a key part of the service's effort to develop and evaluate advanced technologies to defend installations from threats.

The base said the lab will deliver critical tactical-level data, advanced site design concepts, and cutting-edge integration strategies for emerging technologies. It will also ensure the U.S. Air Force remains agile and prepared to counter evolving threats.

The Fraud Accountability Act: Deport And Denaturalize Fraudsters

Fraud is a full-blown crisis draining hundreds of billions of dollars from American taxpayers every year. The Government Accountability Office estimates fraud costs up to $521 billion annually; money stolen directly from hardworking, law-abiding citizens.

To confront this abuse head-on, I joined U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) in introducing the Fraud Accountability Act. The bill strengthens the Immigration and Nationality Act to ensure those who come to America to defraud the system face real consequences. This legislation sends a clear message: the United States is not a safe haven for fraudsters.

I couldn't agree with Senator Blackburn more: "Why would anyone be pro-fraud?" If you come to America and defraud taxpayers, don't expect a free pass. You should expect a one-way ticket home, and that's what our bill does.

Resolutions Recognize, Commend Impressive Nature of Operation Absolute Resolve

The United States conducted a combined law enforcement and military operation in Venezuela on Jan. 3, successfully arresting indicted cartel leader Nicolás Maduro and bringing him to America to face the justice system. Operation Absolute Resolve was the result of months of planning, intelligence gathering, and exquisite interagency cooperation. President Trump said the action was one of the “most stunning, effective, and powerful displays of American military might and confidence" throughout the nation’s history. 

I cosponsored two resolutions supporting President Trump’s decisive military and law enforcement effort under Operation Absolute Resolve and commending its precision, efficiency, and role in addressing long-standing regional instability in Latin America.

The first resolution, led by U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), expresses support for Operation Absolute Resolve, applauds the Trump administration for taking decisive action, highlights the bravery of U.S. service members and law enforcement officers involved, and supports the President’s efforts to assist Venezuelans in their fight for freedom.

Secondly, U.S. Senator Rick Scott’s (R-FL) resolution commends the operation and emphasizes how it will pave the way for democratic transitions in Venezuela and promote regional stability in the Western Hemisphere.   

CEQ Finalizes Plan to End NEPA’s “Regulatory Reign of Terror”

The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) locked in one of the Trump administration’s most consequential deregulatory moves. With its final rule, the CEQ formally completes the reform of its National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) regulations, reaffirming last year’s rescission and addressing public comments. The action clears the way for a more streamlined, responsive permitting process and is now available for public inspection here, ahead of official publication in the Federal Register. CEQ Chairman Katherine Scarlett said in the Trump administration, "NEPA’s regulatory reign of terror has ended."

This isn't an 'environmental rollback,' it's a breath of fresh air. Roads, bridges, pipelines, and transmission lines are all force multipliers for manufacturing, exports, and economic growth. Thank you, President Trump and the CEQ, for reining in this bureaucratic overreach. Imagine how much more we could do if we made lasting permitting reforms to the law. The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee is ready to get it done.

According to CEQ, the deregulation has already cleared a path for federal agencies to reform their own NEPA procedures, many of which had not been updated in decades. On June 30, major permitting agencies across the Executive Branch updated their respective NEPA implementing procedures to simplify this overly burdensome process and ensure efficient and timely environmental consideration.

United States to Pay $450,000 to Firefighters With Cancer

President Donald Trump signed the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act into law in December, providing essential support to families of first responders who passed away from service-related cancer caused by carcinogen exposure. The bill, which I led with U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), ensures all first responders who die or become disabled due to service-related cancers are covered under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) program. While the program recognized those who made the ultimate sacrifice due to 9/11-related cancers, it didn't cover other first responders who lose their lives due to other service-related cancers.

The U.S. government announced it's providing nearly $450,000 in benefits to federal firefighters diagnosed with or killed by smoke-related cancers. Eligible firefighters will receive a one-time, tax-free payment of about $448,575, plus four years of college tuition support for their spouses or children, recognizing their occupational risk from toxic smoke exposure. 

The Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act garnered the endorsement of leading public safety organizations, including the International Association of Fire Fighters, the Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies, Congressional Fire Services Institute, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, Fraternal Order of Police (FOP); International Association of Fire Chiefs, Major County Sheriffs of America, Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association, National Association of Police Organizations, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, National Fire Protection Association, National Narcotics Officers’ Associations’ Coalition, National Volunteer Fire Council, and Sergeants Benevolent Association of the NYPD.

United States Observes National Religious Freedom Day

Each year, the United States observes National Religious Freedom Day, commemorating the 1786 law which made America different from the start: government does not decide faith. On National Religious Freedom Day—and every day—the United States stands firm in its centuries-long commitment to defend freedom of religion and belief, at home and around the world.

We are blessed to live in a country where our Founders constitutionally enshrined the freedom to practice our religion and worship without persecution. My ancestors came here on the Mayflower for the specific purpose of religious freedom. On National Religious Freedom Day, we celebrate this liberty.

"Kudlow" on Fox Business

I joined Larry Kudlow on Fox Business to discuss federal prosecutors opening an investigation into Federal Reserve (Fed) Chairman Jerome Powell.

He wasn’t a good Fed Chairman. He became political, totally embraced the woke agenda, and gave up the Fed’s independence long ago. But we have bigger things to do than focus on an indictment.

"Money Movers" on CNBC

I joined "Money Movers" on CNBC to discuss the Department of Justice's probe into Fed Chair Jay Powell, the Trump administration, and more. It’s no secret the Trump administration would’ve liked Powell out a long time ago. Frankly, so would I. But this whole frenzy is a distraction. If Powell wants to step aside early, that’s an elegant exit. If he wants to stand firm under the disguise of independence, that’s his call too. Either way, let’s refocus on the real work.

Colombian Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez and Sen. Shaheen

U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and I met with Colombian Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez to discuss ramping up the fight against narcotics trafficking. I'm grateful for Minister Sánchez's thorough presentation and Colombia's continued partnership.

Kratos CEO Eric DeMarco

Kratos is delivering high-performance and affordable real-world capabilities directly into the hands of our warfighters. I appreciated hearing the latest on how Eric DeMarco and his team are driving readiness forward.

North Dakota State Lands Commissioner Joe Heringer

North Dakota Commissioner of University and School Lands Joe Heringer stopped by to talk about the North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act, legislation to help our state responsibly develop our abundant natural resources.