Mr. President, the legislation that we're going to be voting on tonight is predicated on a simple idea, the idea that college sports is in crisis and that it requires a fairly extraordinary act of legislative intervention to address this crisis. I am speaking in opposition to this bill, and I think it is important to start by answering the question: Is college sports in crisis? Is it in chaos, as Senator Cruz is fond of saying? Well, the facts don't back up that characterization of college sports. I am a huge college sports fan.
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatD+18$11.6M raised
Christopher Murphy
Senator · Connecticut · Democrat
Christopher Murphy
Senate Floor
Recent comments in the Senate
Mr. President, there is a great divide right now--a pretty significant divide right now--between Democrats and Republicans on the issue of the way that ICE is enforcing our immigration laws in the interior. Democrats believe that what is happening today is both illegal and immoral, and that is why, right now, these operations are being funded through reconciliation--because we believe that it is our constitutional obligation to refuse to fund an Agency that is out of control and not in compliance with the law.
Colleagues, the story broke today that the Trump family has confirmed that a Russian oligarch, a close ally of Vladimir Putin-- a man whose fortune was gifted to him by Putin--paid for the private island wedding of the President of the United States' son. I am here on the floor because I am scared to death that this is all going to start just feeling normal. Let me say it again. A Russian oligarch, a close ally of our enemy Vladimir Putin, a man whose fortune was gifted to him by Vladimir Putin, paid for--secretly--the private island wedding of the President of the United States' son.
Biography
Christopher Murphy, a former affordable housing advocate, was elected as U.S. Senator for Connecticut in 2012. He has focused his legislative work on gun violence prevention, expanding access to healthcare, and strengthening mental health services. Murphy co-authored the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, a landmark gun safety law, and serves on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, shaping U.S. policy abroad. He is recognized for his detailed policy work and his commitment to addressing urgent issues facing Connecticut families.
Education
- J.D., University of Connecticut, Hartford, CT2002
- B.S. with Honors, Williams College, Williamstown, MA1996
- Attended, Exeter College
Professional History
U.S. Senator
2013–PresentSenator from Connecticut. 3 terms.
U.S. Representative
2007–2013Represented Connecticut's 5th congressional district for 3 terms.
Member, Connecticut House of Representatives
1999–2003Member, Connecticut Senate
2003–06Lawyer, Ruben, Johnson & Morgan
2002–06Member, Southington Planning and Zoning Commission
1997–99Lawyer, Private Practice
Policy Focus
Health11%
Education7%
International Affairs5%
Crime and Law Enforcement5%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Christopher Murphy's record in Congress.
Mental Health Reform
Co-authored the Mental Health Reform Act of 2016 to improve mental health care access and coordination nationwide.
Gun Violence Prevention
Led a 15-hour Senate filibuster in 2016 to push for votes on gun control measures after the Orlando nightclub shooting.
Affordable Housing Funding
Secured federal grants to support affordable housing development and homelessness prevention programs in Connecticut.
Ukraine Security Assistance
Advocated for and helped pass increased U.S. military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine following the 2022 Russian invasion.
Committee Assignments
View details →- Senate Committee on Foreign Relations
- Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
- Senate Committee on Appropriations
Sen. Christopher Murphy FAQ
Reach Connecticut Lawmakers
Senator Murphy focuses on Health, Education and International Affairs. Deliver personalized constituent letters to Connecticut's federal, state, and local officials — live in under five minutes.
Grassroots advocacy & legislator intelligence. Used by nonprofits, associations, and GR firms nationwide.
Start a Campaign