Adam

Senator O'Connor Appointed To Senate Special Committee Focused on AI, Will Serve As Ranking Member For Immediate Release Sen. Eddie O'Connor II (D-MA) has been appointed to the Senate Special Committee on Governance & Use of AI Technology by Senate Minority Leader John Starnes (D-VA). Accordingly, O'Connor will serve as the Ranking Member. "This committee will investigate the way AI technology will be used in both the public and private sector. It's needed especially after what has happened in Florence," O'Connor said to reporters outside of his Washington office. O'Connor added that he is looking forward to asking questions about AI technology, particularly to those within the Bureau of Prisons - who suspended the implementation of a program involving AI in their institutions in wake of the FCC Florence. "I have plenty of questions to ask. I'm hoping that Ms. Peters or any authority figure will be able to come before the committee to answer those questions. We have to get to the bottom of this issue as soon as possible." The Senator has recently lent his support for the Supporting Our Federal Correctional Officers Act, a bill proposed by Sen. Don Vinachelli (D-NJ). "I think the BOP staffing issue needs to be addressed. The AI implementation to alleviate the problem is perhaps the biggest blunder the agency has made yet," O'Connor remarked. The Senator added that he will be in touch with administrators at FMC Devens, a minimum security facility located in Ayer, Massachusetts. -30-

Press Office and Public Appearances of Sen. Edward "Eddie" O' Connor (D-MA) For press inquires, contact Owen Culligan, Chief Press Secretary. Staff: Meghan O'Shaughnessy - Chief of Staff Timothy Lovejoy - Legislative Director Emily Benelli - Scheduler Jose Padilla - Policy Advisor and Hispanic Outreach Coordinator Office locations: Washington DC: 320 Hart Senate Building, Washington DC 20510 (202) xxx-xxx-xxxx Boston: JFK Federal Building, Boston (617) xxx-xxx-xxxx Worcester: Main St., Worcester, (508) xxx-xxx-xxxx

Sen. Ross Speaks At Netroots, Announces Return to Democratic Party For Immediate Release Senator Adam Ross spoke to attendees at Netroots Nation to an energized based. While the excitement was already underway, the Maine Senator made an announcement that he was switching from an Independent-caucusing Democrat to a full member of the party. With the announcement, he is the first Democratic Maine Senator in over three decades since the departure of George Mitchell in 1995. Throughout the speech, Ross made a case as to why liberal ideas were better suited compared to what the conservatives have offered. Here was an excerpt from the speech: Soon after, he took aim at the Leah Ross Administration and Senate Republicans regarding their latest actions including the removal of S.27 Stop Campus Hate Act and voting down an amendment that would protect DREAMers. Shortly after the speech, Ross further explained why he decided to make a return to the Democratic Party: -30-

Thank you so much. It’s an honor to speak to Netroots Nation today. And I have waited a long time for this opportunity to speak to you all here at this annual get-together. To begin, I want to make an announcement that I have been waiting quite some time for. I have given this a bit of thought and I want to make it clear that while it will excite many, it may disappoint others. As of today, I stand before you a full member of the Democratic Party. Accordingly, I am now a Democratic Senator for the State of Maine – the first in 30 years since the departure of one of the true giants in Maine politics. And that is former Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell. Even though I no longer identify as an Independent, one thing is for sure – I will still stand up for what I believe is right for the people of this country. I may get flack for this, but if I disagree with something that my party brings up I won’t be afraid to stand up and say something. I encourage you to do the same regarding what you believe should be right for America. We know that liberal ideals are best fitting. That we have the better alternative ideas compared to our GOP counterparts. For example: We stand for the protection of minorities, women, and the most vulnerable. We stand up for a woman's right to choose. We believe that those who come to this country with the intent to live the American dream do so without the fear of being deported and returning to countries where their own government turns a blind eye. We believe that if someone should get the help they need if they're not doing OK - whether it's mentally, physically, or emotionally - without having to worry about the exorbitant costs of health care. We believe that in times of conflict, while we the United States stand firm, we do our part to help out our allies. The Unified Aid Bill is a testament to that. We know that small business America is the backbone and the heartbeat of the economy - not Wall Street or Big Business. We know that a reformed criminal justice system is much needed. We know that the "War on Drugs" was fought on the wrong fronts. We spent so much money over the past 50 years - resulting in needless deaths on both the side of law enforcement and civilians that were caught in the line of fire. And it is time to put an end to that sooner rather than never. And it is time to address the real enemy linked to drugs and that is addiction. We must end this epidemic before things spiral further out of control. And finally, we believe that the American worker should be able to work hard and make a living under favorable conditions, better pay, and be proud to be a part of the working class. To paraphrase George Costanza’s dad in “Seinfeld”, I am going to air my grievances of the GOP. I’ve got a lot of problems and they’re all going to hear it from me. Let’s take a look at President Leah Ross’s most recent meeting about. When the question was brought up about signing the border security bill with the DREAMer protections in place, she said that she would be good with it if Republicans “get what they want”. And with the DREAMer amendment failing by a party line vote, the GOP got more than "what they want". The President's lip service was an attempt to appease us and nothing more. The lesson they need to learn is that negotiation isn’t about “I win you lose”. It should be a win-win for America. I should know this because I have been through many negotiations as a small business owner. The problem is if the GOP doesn’t get what they want, they’ll kill it right there. It sure as hell isn't the first time. We know this because we keep receipts. So, here's another one: The Senate GOP decided to pull the Stop Campus Hate Act bill. The Senate Dems have tried their best to ensure that not only would it protect Jewish students, but also students that were People of Color, LGBT, disabled, and those who would fall under the purview of certain protections. We introduced and managed to pass a series of amendments. And then this happens. Which goes to show you that if things don’t go their way in Congress, the President will undermine the legislative branch and her underlings in both the House and Senate will just roll over and let it happen. Let me remind you of a few things: 1. There is no excuse for antisemitism in America. Nor is there any excuse for hate whatsoever. 2. While the GOP does have the Senate in their hands, the Democrats have the House. So they better think twice before they try to ram through legislation they want to pass thinking it’ll be smooth sailing from there. Because we will keep them in check. They’ll blame us for “obstruction”. They’ll blame us for “ruining America”. We’re standing up for what we believe is right for the people. Finally, I’ll say this. Recently, the President discussed cutting government spending. And that there needs to be strategic investments on certain things. Now mind you, I am a “spend strategic, spend smart” kind of guy – both inside and outside of Congress. At the same time, I question the true intent of the President and the GOP want to cut. If the President says that she will let Congress decide, I will hold that to her. I along with my Senate Dem colleagues will make sure that Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid don’t get gutted. We will make sure that unnecessary spending in the Pentagon is gotten rid of. We must make sure that the permanent extension of the Trump Tax Cuts don’t become a reality – but knowing the President and the GOP that might be done by circumventing Congress. It is time to remind this President and her GOP foot soldiers in Congress that things need to be done the right way. If they care so much about the Constitution, let’s hold their feet to the fire and make sure they follow it. Thank you for having me Netroots. I appreciate you all.

Name: Adam Ross Media/Outlet: CNN's "This Morning" Reason: S.27 Being Pulled, White House Press Conference, and AI Special Committee Resolution "The amendments Senate Dems introduced and managed to pass were the right move. This action taken by the Senate GOP is nothing more than a giant middle finger to the people we vow to protect. It also tells us without them ever saying it that they were intent on having full authority over university and college funding and revoking it if the White House and their allies didn't get their way. And to be clear, Anti-Semitism and any kind of hate should not happen at our colleges and universities." "I watched the press conference and I am ready to see what decisions are being made in terms of what the Leah Ross administration will cut in terms of funding. One thing for sure is that Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid will be protected at all costs. Not only will I make sure of that but so will the Senate Dems." "The implementation of AI in our federal prison system may sound good on paper. At the same time, we need to address any concerns that have arisen as well. Yes, we do need to make sure the BOP staff is taken care of and able to implement any AI-powered tools and programs that will make their jobs more efficient. But the issue of AI goes beyond the BOP's implementation. So this committee I intend to form through the resolution I introduced should focus on not only gathering pertinent information about AI and our intended implementation in both the public and private sectors, but also we want to look into ideas regarding oversight, governance, and making sure that our safety and security is a priority when it comes to the use of AI technology."

Sen. Ross Displeased with Senate Majority's Decision To Pull Anti-Hate Bill For Immediate Release Sen. Adam Ross (I-ME) expressed his displeasure with the Senate GOP's decision to pull S. 27 Stop Campus Hate Act. It occurred after several Democratic-led amendments - intending on extending protections to People of Color, LGBT, and disabled students among others - had passed. Senator Ross issued the following statement on Twitter: The Senator stated that he had spoken with University of Maine System Chancellor Dannel Malloy over the recent actions. "I told him that we tried our best to make sure this legislation didn't protect not just Jewish students - but anyone else regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, and others that fall under the purview". -30-

Sen. Ross To Introduce Quarterly Reports To Constituents For Immediate Release Sen. Adam Ross (I-ME) announced that he will intend to release quarterly reports with the intent of informing his constituents. Specifically, he will provide them with summaries on key legislation that he has voted on in the Senate, along with legislation he has introduced, and other relevant activities. "I believe people have the right to know whether or not I voted for or against a certain piece of legislation. At the same time, they deserve an explanation as to why," Ross said outside of his DC office. The quarterly report will be available online, but will be available in hard copy form - both in newspapers across Maine and upon request through his district offices throughout the state. "I understand that we live in the digital age when it comes to information. At the same time, we still have rural Mainers that don't have that luxury of high speed internet. And hopefully my colleagues and I will find a way to solve that. I think any Mainer whether they live in Portland or the rural Moosehead Lake region should have the right to know what their elected officials are doing regardless of whether or not they have access to the Internet or not." Ross further added that his colleagues should follow a similar suit for the purpose of transparency. "We were elected by the people to do a job. To serve them and be their advocates in Washington. Sometimes, we make hard decisions on what to vote for. And our constituents should be given an explanation as to why if it came down to it. We should also keep them in the know on legislation that we believe will best benefit the citizens. It will give them a chance to know what to expect were these bills to pass Congress and be signed into law. Finally, it will hopefully empower our citizens to call our offices and give them a chance to speak their mind." -30-

Sen. Adam Ross Sworn In For Second Term For Immediate Release Sen. Adam Ross (I-ME) was sworn in as United States Senator for the State of Maine by outgoing Vice President Kamala Harris at the start of the 119th Congress. With his wife Stephanie and three children along aside, Ross took the oath of office. That was followed by the customary post-swearing in portrait and brief words with VP Harris. "I told her that it was an honor to serve in the Senate with her at the helm. I wished her and the Second Gentleman the best. She will certainly be missed," Ross said in an interview outside of the Senate chamber. Furthermore the Senator has mentioned that he is currently developing ideas for bills he would like to introduce during the Congressional session. "I won't disclose on what they are at the moment," Ross said. "But I will say that one of these bills will be related to our economy. As a former small business owner, I think our economy and the way we're doing business is continuously evolving. I am doing my best to keep my finger on the pulse to see how we can improve as economic trends change, as we're introducing new technology that can benefit business, and more." As of right now, Ross is looking forward to the confirmation hearings for incoming President Leah Ross's cabinet picks. "To be honest, I'm not going to pre-decide on my vote because they are political opponents. I won't be voting "nay by default". I want to ask them questions and listen to what they have to say about how their department will address certain issues that fall under their authority," he said. -30-

Name: Adam Ross (I-ME) Media/Outlet: CNN's "This Morning" Reason: Discussing the 2024 Election "A lot of Democratic voters and even left-leaning independents are feeling disappointed that we came up short in the Presidential race and losing the majority in the Senate. I understand their frustrations completely. Our hard work in getting the word out by phone, going door-to-door, and through so many different mediums shouldn't be viewed as an 'all for not' effort. We did it because we we're passionate in what we believed in when it came to an America for the future." "I'll echo a sentiment that my father had instilled in me when I was younger. And it still resonates even today. He told me to always make the best of a situation when things aren't going the best way. So rather than dwell on the loss or even remain focused on what's dividing us, we have to focus on the common ground. I think one issue we need to be on the same page is immigration. The other is the economy. I think there is so much that we can do." "I can say that a split Congress is a great idea. I'm happy that the Democrats have managed to regain control of the House. And I am happy for Hakeem Jefferies for assuming his new role as Speaker of the House. The first African American to ever do so, I may add. I also believe a split Congress is going to keep the Ross administration and the GOP as a whole in check. If they had control of it all, they'd be railroading all kinds of policies and the Democrats would have been at a weaker position to challenge them." "My message to my Democratic colleagues is to never give up. We may be at a disadvantage. But we're going to work hard and continue to do our best to address the issues regarding the LGBT community, those struggling with mental health issues and addiction, making sure our young adults are dealing with a lesser burden regarding student loans, the list goes on and on. We should also remind ourselves not to be afraid to stand up to the GOP when we feel that something doesn't seem right. We need to say 'Hey, this isn't right for the people of America and here's why'."

Sen. Ross Secures 2nd Term As US Senator ; Discusses The Future For Immediate Release Sen. Adam Ross (I-ME) ran unopposed in his re-election bid for Senate. Speaking to a packed ballroom at the Senator Inn in Augusta, Ross said that he was grateful that he will serve another six years in the Senate. He also issued the following statement after the election results were officially called for President: -30-

Sen. Ross Holds Final Campaign Event in Portland For Immediate Release In his final campaign event, Sen. Adam Ross (I-ME) met with supporters in Portland. Here are excerpts of what he said: "I cannot predict the future about the presidential election. But what I do know is this: regardless of who is sworn in on January 20, 2025 - you will have a strong voice in Washington for the next six years. You will have a tireless advocate that will fight for Mainers like you." "I will become a strong ally to the Casanova-Davis/Dyson administration. I will do my part to make sure that the wheels of the 100 day, 10-point plan are set in motion." "As Senator, I will ensure that we pass policies that will allow us to invest in and strengthen Main Street. I want small business owners to be able to carve out their part of the American dream without worries about the heavy burdens that hang over them like dark clouds. If you're someone who works in the gig economy, I will do my part to make it easier, not harder, for you to make a living while repeating the benefits." "We need to focus on the things that are in dire need of repair. This includes our immigration system, which needs reform and provides a clear path to citizenship for those who are looking to find better opportunities and live their best lives here in America. We need to fix our mental health system so people get the help they need whenever they are not feeling their best mentally. "Education is important. I will support policies that will improve our education system. Let's invest in improving our failing schools across the country. Let's ease the burden of those dealing with student loan debt so Americans trying to move forward with the next chapter in their life don't have a dark financial cloud hanging over their heads." "In the Senate, I supported the Unified Aid Bill that is intended to give much needed aid to Ukraine and Israel. I made sure that the GOP's efforts to weaken the legislation were brought to a standstill. I will fight for our efforts to help assist our allies. At the same time, I want it to see it done in a measured, calculated approach. Meaning we provide necessary resources, not find an excuse to put boots on the ground." "If Leah Ross is elected President, I will say this: I am willing to work with her. I want to build bridges on the issues that are weighing heavily on the American people. Because when it comes to those issues, it takes working together to solve those problems. We should be focusing on common ground rather than division. I must issue a warning though: I am not afraid to challenge the Ross/McKnight administration on policies that don't seem right for the American people. I will challenge the MAGA Republicans and their "bulldozing, attack dog" rhetoric just like I have in the past." -30-

Sen. Ross Makes Appearance on MSNBC's "Morning Joe" to discuss Foreign Elections For Immediate Release Sen. Adam Ross (I-ME) appeared on MSNBC's "Morning Joe" to talk about the 2024 foreign elections and how it may impact geopolitics in the future. First on the topic were the elections in Europe and the rise of far-right politics in countries such as France, Spain, and Germany. Here was Ross's take on the situation: Ross also added that the elections in the United Kingdom provided a stark contrast to the growing trend in the rest of Europe. He praised PM Keir Starmer and had this to say: When the conversation switched over to Asia, Sen. Ross expressed that things in Asia seem less tense at the moment despite an outbreak in violence in Taiwan between pro-Independence and pro-Unification supporters and China utilizing military assets in the region. He also pointed out that India may have caused discomfort for Beijing when it said it was planning to "dominate" South East Asia. Here's what Ross said: -30-

Name: Adam Ross (I-ME) Media/Outlet: MSNBC's "Morning Joe" Reason: 2024 Foreign Elections "The rise of far-right politics in Europe is quite concerning. Especially when were still dealing with Russian aggression in Ukraine. If Spain, France, and Germany allows the far-right to take over, this is going to considerably weaken NATO. They will be willing to roll over and play dead for Putin if they were told to do so." "At this point, I think Keir Starmer is on the right track to ensure that the United Kingdom rejoins the European Union. Not only that, it will also bolster their status as a powerful and influential nation in Europe. It would also give Starmer a much greater position to sound the alarm regarding Russian aggression and warning our European allies to don't fall for what the far-right is seemingly promising." "I think we have a less than worrisome situation in Asia for the moment. South Korea is doing its part to ensure that China and even North Korea doesn't try anything to create chaos beyond what has already happened in the Far East. I am confident that Seoul is giving both Beijing and Pyongyang fair warning without saying too much. I also noticed that India has made China uncomfortable when it voiced its intent to dominate South East Asia recently. And truth be told, the relations between the two countries have strained for well over a decade. It'll be intriguing to watch what goes on in this region in the future and whether there is a need for the United States to step in, if and when certain situations call for it."

Sen. Ross Declines VP Consideration ; Will Focus On Dems' Efforts To Retain Senate For Immediate Release Sen. Adam Ross (I-ME) was on the list as one of Justin Casanova-Davis's options for the Vice Presidential nomination. Prior to the eventual selection, he issued the following statement: -30-

Sen. Ross Holds Campaign Event in Houlton ; Discusses The Economy and Immigration For Immediate Release Sen. Adam Ross (I-ME) continued his Senate campaign with a stop in Houlton. He visited with supporters in Aroostook County where he discussed the economy. With Houlton one of a few border towns in The County, Sen. Ross made sure that immigration was an issue worth talking about. Here's what he said during the event: The issue of the economy was also discussed. With Aroostook County showing promise in improving its local economy, Sen. Ross had this to say: After the event, Ross spoke with local media about his name being mentioned as a possible choice for the Democratic Vice Presidential nomination. He shared the following: -30-