And then this isn't just a problem in American legal communities. There is a global magazine called The Economist magazine, which, by the way, does not run liberal. It is a fairly conservative publication. The cover story in the July 18 The Economist is a picture of the Department of Justice logo and the title ``Degradation in progress.'' I ask that The Economist magazine article--there are actually two.
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatD+24$365K raised
Sheldon Whitehouse
Senator · Rhode Island · Democrat
Sheldon Whitehouse
Senate Floor
Recent comments in the Senate
And with respect to this litany of criticism of the honesty of the Blanche Department of Justice, I would like to add a ProPublica article entitled ``Federal Judges Chastise Trump's Justice Department for `Unlawful,' `Unethical' and `Unseemly' Conduct,'' whose first sentence begins: Across the country, federal judges are calling out Department of Justice lawyers, questioning in unprecedented ways whether they can be trusted to tell the truth or uphold centuries-old legal norms.
Mr. President, I am here to take us into the upcoming vote, the Congressional Review Act vote, with respect to an EPA rule related to PFAS. For those of you who aren't following this, PFAS is a dangerous and toxic substance that, I think, Republicans and Democrats alike see as a dangerous and inadequately regulated substance. Unfortunately, it is particularly prevalent in military installations, and particular exposure has been faced by veterans and also by folks who are in our emergency response community--firefighters.
Biography
Sheldon Whitehouse, a former U.S. Attorney for Rhode Island, was elected as U.S. Senator for Rhode Island in 2006. He is known for his leadership on climate change, government transparency, and health care reform. Whitehouse has authored legislation to address carbon pollution and serves on the Senate Judiciary and Environment and Public Works Committees. He is recognized for his persistent advocacy for environmental accountability and his detailed oversight of Supreme Court ethics. Whitehouse approaches his role with a focus on evidence-based policy and persistent engagement on issues affecting Rhode Islanders.
Education
- J.D., University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA1982
- B.A., Yale University, New Haven, CT1978
Professional History
U.S. Senator
2007–PresentSenator from Rhode Island. 4 terms.
Attorney General of Rhode Island
1999–2003United States Attorney
1994–98Director, Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation
1992–94
Policy Focus
Taxation13%
Environmental Protection8%
Health6%
Crime and Law Enforcement5%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Sheldon Whitehouse's record in Congress.
Climate Change Advocacy
Led the Senate's 'Time to Wake Up' speeches, raising awareness and urgency about climate change for over 280 consecutive weeks.
Ocean Conservation
Co-founded the Senate Oceans Caucus and championed bipartisan legislation to protect marine ecosystems and combat ocean pollution.
Judicial Ethics Reform
Introduced the Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal, and Transparency Act to increase accountability and transparency in the federal judiciary.
Health Care Funding
Secured increased federal funding for Rhode Island’s community health centers to expand access to primary care services.
Committee Assignments
View details →- Senate Committee on Environment and Public WorksRanking Member
- United States Senate Caucus on International Narcotics ControlChairman
- Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe
- Senate Committee on the Judiciary
- Senate Committee on Finance
- Senate Committee on the Budget
Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse FAQ
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