On the recordMay 10, 2021
the last time we observed Mother's Day, most of the country could not spend time with their parents or have their kids spend time with them. Standing outside of a window and waving to mom was the closest you could get. I remember that. So this year, I was beyond grateful to celebrate with my mother and my daughters in person. I know the same was true for Americans across the country. As COVID-19 continues to recede--and more than half of eligible adults have received at least one shot of the vaccine after a very painful and difficult year--it was another sign that our country is turning the corner. Praise God. Now, as we begin this work period, the Senate will continue working to help the country recover and build back stronger than ever. That includes filling vacancies in the executive branch with highly qualified public servants. This week, the Senate will consider the nomination of Andrea Palm for Deputy HHS Secretary and Cynthia Marten, a teacher of 17 years, to serve as the next Deputy Education Secretary. There will be additional nominations on the floor as the week goes on. At the committee level, at least half a dozen other nominees will have their markups. There will be plenty of legislative action off the floor as well. Discussions continue on a potential, bipartisan infrastructure bill, gun safety legislation, and policing reform.…





