Dear Friend,

Tougher Sanctions on Iran

I joined my Republican colleagues in introducing two bills that would impose tough sanctions on Iran. In response to Iran’s ballistic missile violations, the Iran Ballistic Missile Sanctions Act sanctions individuals who directly and indirectly contribute to Iran’s ballistic missile program as well as entities controlled by Iran’s key ballistic missile organizations. The Iran Terrorism and Human Rights Act aims to counter terrorism and human rights abuses in Iran by sanctioning Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Coups (IGRC) and Mahan Air, an Iranian airline that has contributed to the growth of terrorism.  

Instead of achieving a denuclearized Iran, the President’s deal has done just the opposite by providing the regime a patient pathway to a nuclear bomb. Moreover, the President’s dangerous Iran deal has empowered the world’s foremost state sponsor of terror by releasing over $50 billion into its weakened economy. Secretary of State John Kerry has openly admitted that he thinks the money from sanctions relief will end up in the hands of terrorists. Furthermore, Iran has repeatedly made it clear by word and deed that it will not stop its illicit activities, including ballistic missile testing, support for terror, and gross human rights abuses. The Iran Ballistic Missile Sanctions Act and the Iran Terrorism and Human Rights Act recognize Iran’s pattern of behavior and strengthens and enhances sanctions against the regime. I will continue to urge Senators to join us in addressing the consequences of the President’s bad deal with Iran.

Give the People a Voice

Earlier this week, President Obama nominated Merrick Garland, chief judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, to fulfill the vacancy on the Supreme Court.

We stand at a pivotal point in our nation’s history. The Obama Administration continues to use the judicial and regulatory systems to push through its legislative agenda, shifting the balance of power that our Founders established. That is why the next president of the United States should have the opportunity to fill the vacancy on the Supreme Court. In 1992, even then-Senator Joe Biden stated the Senate should not hold confirmation hearings for a Supreme Court nominee until after that year’s presidential election. Our next election is too soon and the stakes are too high; the American people deserve a role in this process as the next Supreme Court Justice will influence the direction of this country for years to come.

Holding the VA Accountable

The Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) Choice Program is responsible for incorrectly billing veterans, which has led to debt collection and affected credit scores. This week, the VA announced it set up a community call center for veterans who need to resolve Choice Program billing issues. I have heard from too many Colorado veterans and health care providers who are experiencing problems with the Choice Program’s billing practices and continue to meet roadblocks along the way. I am pleased the VA has acted to address its poorly implemented Choice Program that has negatively impacted the very people it was designed to help. While the call center is a step in the right direction, it is not nearly enough. It’s time for the VA to get its act together. I’ll continue to fight for our veterans who deserve nothing but the best possible health care our country has to offer.

Veterans who are experiencing payment issues associated with the Choice Program can contact 1-877-881-7618 to reach the Community Care Call Center.

Colorado Capital Conference 

The Colorado Capital Conference is a wonderful opportunity for people from all over Colorado to travel to Washington, D.C. and meet with our nation’s top leaders. Past speakers have included Supreme Court Justices, heads of executive agencies, and Members of Senate leadership. The Capital Conference is a Colorado tradition, and one I look forward to each year. Washington works best when Coloradans are involved in the policymaking process and this annual conference provides that opportunity.

Sign up here.

Apply to the Senate Page Program

I encourage all interested high school Sophomores and Juniors in Colorado to apply to the Senate Page program through my office. Senate Pages have the chance to contribute to our nation’s history and develop a deep understanding of the Senate’s role in the legislative process. Primary duties include delivering legislative material and correspondence throughout the Capitol, preparing the Senate Chamber for business, and carrying amendments and messages to the Senators’ desks.

Fill out the application to apply today!

Thank you for taking the time to read my weekly update. If I can be of any assistance to you, please contact my Washington, D.C. office at (202) 224-5941.

Sincerely,

Cory Gardner

United States Senator

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