I hope you saw my latest weekly column.

 

ROGER WICKER: Lawmakers must unite around bipartisan priorities
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The recent elections in Georgia have produced a major power shift in the U.S.
Senate. Both Republican senators lost narrowly to their Democratic challengers,
bringing the Senate to an even 50-50 split. As presiding officer, Vice
President Kamala Harris will be able to break any tie, allowing Democrats to
control the agenda and name committee chairs. This means Sen. Maria Cantwell,
D-Wash., will become chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee, and I will be
the Ranking Republican.


It has been 20 years since the Senate last had a 50-50 split. During that
time, my predecessor, Trent Lott, was Majority Leader, and Vice President Dick
Cheney was the presiding officer. Although Republicans were technically in
control of the chamber, strong cooperation across party lines was essential. I
hope Americans will see the same level of cooperation that existed then.


Senate remains xxxxxx against liberal agenda


The close margin in the Senate means it will be difficult to pass legislation
without bipartisan support. This should discourage lawmakers from pushing
far-left proposals that do not enjoy broad consensus. My Republican colleagues
and I will stand strong against any proposals that could lead our country
toward socialism.


Congress will continue to exercise constitutional oversight of the executive
branch, ensuring that federal agencies follow the law. Republicans also
recognize the need to restore the American people’s confidence in our election
system. My colleagues and I will make a strong push for measures to improve
election integrity and transparency.

 

In the weeks ahead, the Senate will resume its unique role of vetting and
confirming presidential nominees. I take this “advice and consent” role very
seriously. I have opposed nominations in the past, and I will support only
those nominees who I believe are qualified for the job.


Continued work on commerce committee


As the lead Republican on the Senate Commerce Committee, I will continue to
shape legislation on a broad range of issues affecting our economy. One of my
top priorities continues to be expanding broadband to rural communities.
Lawmakers from both parties understand the importance of delivering high-speed
internet to every community in America, and I will lead efforts in Congress to
expedite making that vision a reality. I also plan to introduce legislation
that would attract private investment to rural communities and improve STEM
education in rural schools.


The Commerce Committee oversees our nation’s transportation networks, which
are vital to our economy and our vaccine distribution efforts. This Congress, I
hope to help negotiate a multi-year surface transportation bill to continue
improving safety and provide funding for critical transportation programs,
including highway, freight, motor vehicle, and rail programs, such as Gulf
Coast Rail.


States across the country are advancing legislation to allow college athletes
to earn money through the use of their “name, image, and likeness” in
merchandise. To avoid a confusing patchwork of state laws on this issue, I will
help draft legislation to create a national standard. I will also help write
legislation to authorize funding for NASA, including Stennis Space Center in
Hancock County, and I will keep advocating for data privacy legislation that
protects consumers’ personal information.


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Thank you for your support,

 

Senator Roger Wicker

 

 

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