Congressional Record — January 15, 2025

Overview of the day

The Senate resumed consideration of S. 5 and held extensive debates regarding border security, the Laken Riley Act, and upcoming tax policy changes. Senators also discussed the nomination of Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense and expressed concerns regarding the funding of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency.

Summary of the House proceedings

There was no House activity on this date.

Summary of Senate proceedings

S. 5 was resumed for consideration to require the Secretary of Homeland Security to take into custody aliens charged with theft.
S. 5 had 2 amendments proposed to it.
Senate members debated the importance of S. 5 in ensuring that illegal immigrants who commit crimes are detained and deported.
Senators discussed the nomination of Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense, emphasizing his military experience and leadership.
Senator Blackburn spoke against the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, citing ties to terrorist organizations and advocating for a permanent ban on U.S. funding.
Senate Democrats expressed opposition to proposed tax cuts for corporations and billionaires, arguing that such measures would increase the national debt and lead to cuts in Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act.
Senator Markey announced the introduction of legislation to increase taxes on private jet fuel to $2 a gallon to make polluters pay for climate damage.