Statements and posts
96 press releases and posts, newest first.
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Durbin Honored By Healing Our Waters-Great Lakes Coalition
Honored by Great Lakes coalition for decades of work protecting the Great Lakes.
“The Great Lakes is one of the Midwest’s most valuable resources, and I take seriously the commitment to preserve its beauty.”
Great Lakes Restoration Initiative ActEnvironmental ProtectionAI-read
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Led Illinois delegation urging President Trump to grant disaster declaration for storm-damaged counties.
“We write in support of Illinois Governor JB Pritzker’s request for federal assistance for the State of Illinois to help eight Illinois counties recover from severe storm damage that occurred from August 11-16, 2026.”
Illinois Storm and Flooding RecoveryDisaster ResponseAI-read
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Durbin Delivers Opening Statement During Senate Judiciary Committee Nominations Hearing
Criticized Trump administration for weaponizing and politicizing the Department of Justice.
“At a time when DOJ has upended norms and traditions so drastically that it has lost the presumption of regularity in many courtrooms, it is more important than ever that the federal judiciary hold this weaponized agency to account. I hope the nominees before us today can demonstrate that they will do that by putting…”
Government WeaponizationAI-read
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Durbin criticized FBI Director Kash Patel as unqualified and partisan in oversight hearing.
“Let me say at the outset, that we just heard again, an introduction by the Chairman [Grassley] that gave reference to Crossfire Hurricane and a lot of things that are in the history of the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Over a year ago, all of the Democrats on this Committee said, ‘Stop…”
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Durbin questioned FBI Director Patel on immigration enforcement, hiring standards and corruption.
“One year ago, my home state of Illinois was experiencing the beginning of a ruthless, reckless, deadly campaign orchestrated by this Administration known as ‘Midway Blitz.’ Masked federal agents armed with military grade weapons and unmarked vehicles descended on Chicago and other communities, bashing in car windows,…”
Frederick ICE Operation TacticsImmigration EnforcementAI-read
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Demanded FBI Director Patel justify removal of hiring disqualifications for sex solicitation and bestiality.
“We write to request a full accounting of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) decision to gut hiring standards that have governed the FBI’s workforce for decades.”
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Introduced CRA resolution to disapprove regulation changing international student and journalist visa procedures.
“This proposed rule is just another part of the Donald Trump-Stephen Miller mass deportation agenda. They want to make the immigration process so difficult, so cumbersome, and so onerous that legal immigrants decide to leave the U.S. or never come here at all—which will result in the loss of talented, bright individuals…”
ImmigrationAI-read
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Durbin Statement On The 25th Anniversary Of The 9/11 Terrorist Attacks
Released statement marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks.
“Today, as we reflect on how those acts of pure evil forever altered our sense of security and safety, let us also reflect on the importance of remaining faithful to our values and the Constitution while protecting the American people. The victims of 9/11, their loved ones, and the American people deserved justice and…”
September 11th Attacks 25th AnniversaryArmed Forces and National SecurityAI-read
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Durbin Delivers Remarks At National Center For Victims Of Crime’s Annual Training Institute
Delivered remarks calling for Congress to hold Big Tech accountable for failing to protect children.
“Parents and grandparents across America feel a pit in their stomachs every time their child logs onto a phone, tablet, or video game console. These parents and grandparents know that the internet has now become a hunting ground for predators, but accountability is finally coming.”
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Durbin Statement On Tom Kotarac’s Election As Chair Of The New Northern Illinois Transit Authority
Applauded Tom Kotarac's election as chair of Northern Illinois Transit Authority.
“There is no one better to lead the new Northern Illinois Transit Authority.”
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Durbin Attends Will County Problem Solving Courts Graduation Ceremony
Attended Will County Problem Solving Courts graduation ceremony for 23 participants.
“Graduates, as you receive your certificate, I hope you see it as a symbol of your perseverance. By completing this program, you’ve sent a powerful message to yourself and your loved ones. You’ve overcome tough challenges to build a healthy, fulfilling life.”
Crime and Law EnforcementAI-read
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Urged Air Force to establish replacement mission for 183rd Wing repair facility.
“We look forward to working with you on a path forward that will continue the 183rd Wing’s legacy of service to our nation.”
Military ReadinessAI-read
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Durbin Tours Site Of OSF Healthcare’s Outpatient Dental Clinic In Peoria
Toured OSF Healthcare's new dental sedation clinic funded by $2 million earmark.
“If you’ve ever experienced the pain of a toothache, you know that oral health care is not a luxury, it is essential. That’s why the work done at OSF HealthCare is so important.”
Health Care CoverageAI-read
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Durbin Statement On Lonnie Bunch’s Retirement From The Smithsonian After 38 Years Of Service
Praised Lonnie Bunch's retirement from Smithsonian after 38 years of service.
“While Lonnie will step down at the end of the year, no Administration or President will ever be able to erase his legacy—one that deserves its own plaque in the halls of a Smithsonian.”
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Secured $1 million for Illinois Wesleyan University nursing program and visited campus.
“Our health care professionals, especially our nurses, are on the front lines, providing critical care to patients. But they don’t have access to the resources they need to succeed. I’ve made it a priority to work alongside institutions, including Illinois Wesleyan University, to secure federal funding that can support…”
Teacher RecruitmentAI-read
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Durbin, Duckworth, Sorensen Announce Funding Extension For Chicago-Quad Cities Rail Project
Announced federal funding extension for Chicago-Quad Cities passenger rail project.
“Illinois relies on rail to push our economy forward and to ensure statewide connectivity, but we’ve been missing a critical route between Chicago and the Quad Cities.”
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Requested information from FRA and Amtrak on plans to relocate Chicago maintenance facility.
“We have long-supported projects that seek to improve Amtrak’s on-time performance, reduce service interruptions and cancellations, and yield greater safety and satisfaction for customers.”
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Durbin Statement On Meta Paying Landmark Settlement Over Child Safety Concerns
Praised Meta's $17 billion settlement over child safety concerns and called for Big Tech regulation.
“This needs to stop. While this is a landmark settlement, Congress still needs to step up and regulate Big Tech. This is one of the few issues where Congress universally agrees on a bipartisan basis that we should act, and there are a number of bipartisan bills ready for floor consideration by both the House and the…”
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Raised concerns about due process violations for unaccompanied children in immigration court proceedings.
“What I witnessed today illustrated President Trump and Stephen Miller’s ruthless agenda: they will go so far with their cruel immigration operation to target terrified children, forcing them to articulate their fears in front of a judge and explain why they must remain in this country.”
Immigration EnforcementAI-read
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Criticized Trump administration's mail-in voting restrictions as attack on voting rights.
“[Yesterday’s] decision does not address whether the President’s attempts to interfere with States’ administration of the November 2026 elections are lawful. Nor does it suggest that the Executive Branch has any constitutional or statutory authority to implement the President’s directives. Instead, [it] merely postpones…”
Voting AccessAI-read
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Durbin Attends Austin Hope Center Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Attended ribbon cutting for Austin HOPE Center funded by $1 million earmark.
“I want to recognize the incredible partnership that made this possible: Stone Community Development Corporation, Lurie Children’s, Thresholds, and Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives.”
HealthAI-read
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Requested investigation into Trump administration cuts to legal services for unaccompanied children.
“Congress has, on a bipartisan basis, made clear that unaccompanied children should not be forced to represent themselves in immigration court... Despite these statutory protections, ORR has nevertheless taken drastic steps to gut legal representation for children.”
Immigration EnforcementAI-read
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Praised Chicago O'Hare Airport's resequencing of terminal construction project.
“Now that United and American Airlines are on board with constructing this important terminal earlier, we’re eager to move forward with TAP by following the plan that preserves O’Hare’s world-class status and modernizes its terminals to meet the demand of travelers well into the future.”
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Durbin, Duckworth, Budzinski Welcome 300 New Citizens At Illinois State Fair Naturalization Ceremony
Welcomed 300 new citizens from 52 countries at Illinois State Fair naturalization ceremony.
“We are a nation of immigrants, and I proudly display my mother’s naturalization certificate on my desk in the Capitol as a reminder of the pursuit of the American Dream. I was honored to welcome 300 new citizens today.”
ImmigrationAI-read
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Led letter to Attorney General opposing mass immigration hearings with up to 185 people.
“Through these hearings, the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) is intentionally overcrowding dockets with little notice to immigrants in an effort to manufacture significant numbers of removal orders and advance the Administration’s mass deportation campaign. Reports suggest…”
Immigration EnforcementAI-read
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Durbin Visits ImpactLife Blood Donor Center Amid National Shortage
Visited blood donor center to address national blood supply shortage crisis.
“The American Red Cross declared a national blood supply crisis in the U.S. last month for just the second time ever, which has impacted patients’ ability to be treated for illnesses or undergo surgery.”
HealthAI-read
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Announced $7.95 million in federal funding for runway improvements at two Illinois airports.
“Investing in our airports is laying the foundation for increased connectivity and reliability. With this grant announcement for Decatur Airport, Illinoisans will see upgraded airport infrastructure, making travel safe and more efficient. Additionally, this funding will ensure that Illinoisans who live near the Chicago…”
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Durbin, Duckworth, Quigley, Davis Announce More Than $696 Million For Amtrak Upgrades In Chicago
Announced $696 million in federal funding for Amtrak modernization projects in Chicago.
“Our state’s top-notch rail system keeps our economy moving while allowing Illinoisans to travel from Chicago to Carbondale. This latest federal investment into Chicago’s Amtrak facilities and infrastructure reflects the city’s status as a thriving transportation hub.”
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Durbin Joins Calls For Watchdog To Conduct Full Audit Of Trump’s Gilded Ballroom Boondoggle
Called for Government Accountability Office audit of Trump's White House ballroom renovation project.
“The Trump administration has not provided transparency into the use of federal funds for the East Wing project, and they have limited congressional oversight, meaningful public input, and adherence to established federal processes.”
Government SpendingAI-read
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Durbin, Duckworth, Sorensen Statement On Announced Closure Of Tyson Plant In Joslin
Responded to Tyson Foods plant closure in Illinois that will eliminate 2,500 union jobs.
“Today’s news is devastating for the 2,500 skilled union workers impacted by the closure of the Tyson plant in Joslin, especially at a time when American families are struggling with the rising cost of living. In the coming weeks, we remain committed to supporting our union members during this transition and working…”
Labor and EmploymentAI-read
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Durbin Meets With Clients And Staff At Joliet Junior College’s Entrepreneur And Business Center
Secured $800,000 for Joliet Junior College's entrepreneur business center.
“Small businesses need more support right now, and that’s exactly what the EBC is offering.”
Constituent ServicesAI-read
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Durbin, Booker Submit Amicus Brief To Supreme Court In Maxwell V. Dinis
Submitted amicus brief supporting First Step Act criminal justice reform enforcement.
“In December 2018, a bipartisan majority of both chambers of Congress passed, and President Donald J. Trump signed into law, the First Step Act of 2018. The Act is a historic and bipartisan piece of legislation, ushering in momentous correctional, sentencing, and criminal justice reforms.”
Crime and Law EnforcementAI-read
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Lake County Board honored Durbin with resolution recognizing decades of service to Illinois.
“Be it recognized, that this County Board of Lake County, Illinois, and the people of Illinois are grateful for Senator Durbin’s integrity, leadership, and decades of dedicated public service; and be it further recognized, that the Lake County Board does hereby honor Senator Richard J. ‘Dick’ Durbin for his…”
Constituent ServicesAI-read
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Durbin Statement On Confirmation Of Todd Blanche To Be Attorney General
Criticized Todd Blanche's confirmation as Attorney General as a grave mistake.
“This nation deserves an Attorney General who loves the Constitution more than he loves the President. Sadly, for our nation, Todd Blanche is not that person.”
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Applauded Senate passage of resolution celebrating Chicago Cubs' 150th anniversary.
“For 150 years, the Chicago Cubs have been the heart of our great city. For 150 years, they have brought millions of fans together from across the world to all chant ‘Go, Cubs, Go!’ They delivered three World Series and countless wins. I’m honored this resolution passed the Senate to celebrate our beloved Cubbies, and…”
Sports and RecreationAI-read
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Durbin Statement On Unlawful Birthright Citizenship Executive Orders
Criticized Trump administration executive orders attempting to restrict birthright citizenship as unconstitutional.
“The Trump Administration should abandon this latest shameful attempt to subvert the Constitution, federal statute, and clear Supreme Court precedent.”
Immigration EnforcementAI-read
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Praised Senate passage of legislation imposing sanctions on Russia and purchasers of Russian oil.
“This bipartisan bill that Senator Lindsey Graham worked so tirelessly to advance couldn’t be better timed. Momentum in the war has shifted toward Ukraine and tightening sanctions on Russia and those key purchasers of Russian oil should help add pressure for the Kremlin to finally negotiate. I am pleased to have helped…”
Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia ActArmed Forces and National SecurityAI-read
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Led Senate Democrats opposing ATF rule loosening firearm prohibitions for high-risk individuals.
Crime and Law EnforcementAI-read
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Durbin Fights For SNAP Benefits In Farm Bill
Fought for two-year delay to SNAP cost-sharing requirement in Farm Bill.
“I have seen a few farm bills… The decision was made in the 1960s to blend together food and nutrition programs [to the Farm Bill]… That winning coalition has paid off ever since. We need it again and it has to be part of this SNAP conversation. We [Democrats] want to support the Farm Bill—I certainly do. But I want to…”
Social WelfareAI-read
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Demanded Trump administration restore $580 million in canceled Illinois energy grants.
“It is incumbent upon DOE to take a wide view of and responsibility for the health of our nation’s energy systems. Through these grant terminations, you have demonstrated a complete failure to understand this basic principle of DOE’s mission. To begin rectifying this unprecedented political attack, we demand that you…”
Government SpendingAI-read