Press Releases
"Today, a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) advisory panel has recommended that U.S immigration authorities be directed to maintain their current use of private detention facilities. I am extremely disappointed by this announcement, as this policy will continue the status quo of systemic problems in our immigration detention system that we know must be fixed.
"President-elect Trump has continued to produce dangerous and unhinged rhetoric. His recent statement regarding the ‘millions of people who voted illegally' is completely unacceptable given there is absolutely no evidence of voter fraud. Trump's actions only serve to undermine the system of government that he is preparing to lead in 50 days.
"With the nomination of Senator Jeff Sessions as the 84th Attorney General for the United States, President-elect Donald Trump has selected a documented racist to be a member of his cabinet.
"I am extremely disturbed that as one of his first decisions as President-elect, Donald Trump has announced his appointment of Steven Bannon as White House Chief Strategist. Mr. Bannon is the Executive Chairman of the website Breitbart News, where he has repeatedly and aggressively pushed stories that promote Anti-Semitism, xenophobia, and racism. Under Mr. Bannon's leadership, Breitbart has served as a "platform for the alt-right," a movement that supports White Nationalism and openly rejects the value of diversity.
"Veterans Day honors the service and sacrifice of our veterans. Each November 11th, we commemorate our veterans who have faithfully served our country. We reflect on the courage and commitment of the brave men and women who protect us and ensure our freedom.
"President-elect Trump ran the most bitter, divisive, and negative presidential campaign in history. Now he claims he wants to change his tone. For the sake of our country, I hope he does.
"I am saddened by the tragic news that State Senator Andy Hill has passed away after a difficult battle with cancer. Senator Hill was a leader in our region, working across the aisle to increase opportunities for students during his career in public service. I offer my deepest condolences to Senator Hill's family and friends, and my thanks for his dedication to Washington state throughout his life."
"Under current law, pharmaceutical companies holding a patent for a drug can develop, distribute, and market what is known as an Authorized Generic (AG) through a privileged process provided in the Hatch-Waxman Act (PL 98-417) that allows the brand-name company to introduce and begin sales of a generic product, rather than going through the ‘Abbreviated New Drug Application' process that third-party generics must pursue.
"This week the House of Representatives passed a much needed reauthorization of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), a bill that will assist local governments in improving their infrastructure. The legislation provides the Army Corps of Engineers with the authority to study water resource issues, construct projects, and modify existing water development projects.
"I extend our deepest sympathies to the people of the State of Israel on the passing of former President Shimon Peres, a visionary leader who dedicated himself to Israel and the cause of peace.
"With so many conflicts around the globe, we can best honor President Peres by striving to pursue his vision for a more just, stable, and peaceful world. May his memory be a blessing to his family, the people of the State of Israel, and people from all countries."