U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Senate Majority Whip, addressed the Senate to outline Republican legislative achievements since gaining the majority seven months ago. In his remarks, Barrasso emphasized the party’s efforts to address economic and security issues.
“On critical issues like the economy, inflation, immigration, and national security, Americans trust Republicans. They’re right to do so,” Barrasso said.
Barrasso stated that Republicans came into the Senate with a mandate to “get America back on track” and claimed progress in several areas. He referenced recent legislation signed into law that he described as fulfilling campaign promises.
“Seven months ago, Republicans came to the Senate with a clear mandate. Our job as the majority is to get America back on track. We made that commitment –and we’re keeping it. America is stronger. America is safer. America is more prosperous. Not since Ronald Reagan reversed the failures of Jimmy Carter have we seen such a dramatic turnaround.”
Barrasso highlighted stopping what he called “the largest tax increase in American history,” saying Democrats’ proposals would have raised taxes for working families and small businesses while increasing estate taxes for farmers and ranchers.
“Republicans stopped all of that. Instead, we delivered a working-class tax cut. We cut taxes on tips, on overtime, and on Social Security. No taxes on tips puts an extra $1,300 back into the pockets of waiters, barbers, and bartenders. No taxes on overtime puts an extra $1,400 back into the paychecks of nurses, firefighters, and police officers. No tax on Social Security puts more money into the pockets of seniors through a larger deduction.”
The senator credited colleagues such as Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) for modernizing child care tax credits—the first update in 25 years—and expanding child tax credits to $2,200 per child annually.
Barrasso also cited Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) for creating savings accounts for newborns: “Thanks to Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, Republicans created $1,000 savings account for every newborn American.” According to Barrasso’s statement, these accounts could provide substantial funds by adulthood.
Energy policy was another focus area; Barrasso criticized previous increases in energy prices under President Biden but asserted that Republican leadership has led to increased domestic production across multiple sectors including Wyoming.
“My home state of Wyoming is America’s energy breadbasket,” he said.
On Medicaid reform efforts included in recent legislation, Barrasso stated work requirements will now apply for able-bodied adults while maintaining coverage for single mothers, children and disabled Americans: “Our law changes that. If you can work, you should work… Under our new law single mothers keep their coverage.”
National security measures were also discussed: “We are restoring Peace through Strength,” said Barrasso regarding military funding increases totaling $150 billion.
Regarding border security measures passed by Republicans with support from former President Trump’s policies—such as ending catch-and-release—Barrasso claimed illegal border crossings have dropped significantly: “In the last two months…the number of illegal immigrants who were released into our country is zero.”
He also mentioned funding approved for completing barriers at the southern border and investments in Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations.
Additionally,Barrasso pointed out reductions in federal spending abroad through rescissions bills saving taxpayers billions by cutting programs he characterized as unnecessary or wasteful overseas expenditures.
Summing up Republican priorities versus those of Democrats,Barrasso argued current Democratic policies favor higher taxes and open borders compared with earlier bipartisan cooperation during President Reagan’s administration:“Once they were bipartisan…Today,every Democrat in Congress voted to raise taxes…”
“A Wall Street Journal poll this weekend found Democrats’ favorability at a 35-year low.On critical issues like economy,inflation…Americans trust Republicans.They’re right to do so.Republicans are lowering costs.We’re securing our borders.We’re rebuilding our military.We’re getting America back on track.We’re just getting started.The American comeback is real.The Republican majority is delivering.America’s best days are ahead.”
