Senator Marsha Blackburn Sworn In, Outlines Key Priorities for 119th Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) was sworn into the 119^th Congress by Supreme Court Justice Amy Comey Barrett. She defeated Democratic challenger Gloria Johnson and two other opponents in the ballot to secure her seat.

Blackburn Unveils Legislative Priorities

Following her swearing in ceremony, Blackburn addressed her top priorities for her new term. These include:

• Securing the border
• Making tax cuts permanent
• Pursuing the divestment of TikTok
• Improving internet protection for children

Protecting Children Online

Blackburn emphasized the importance of protecting children online, stating, “Protecting children and having laws that protect children is not a violation of free speech.”

To achieve this, she has supported legislation aimed at enhancing online safety, including a bill that would require social media companies to take additional steps to safeguard children from harm. This legislation would address issues such as extortion, eating disorders, bullying, and suicide.

She expressed her intention to continue advocating for the passage of this law in the upcoming term.

Addressing Big Tech Accountability

Blackburn also voiced her commitment to holding big technology companies accountable online. She said her proposed legislation would not only protect children but also empower parents to adjust algorithms that affect their children.

Strengthening Border Security

Border security is another critical area for Blackburn. She aims to combat human and drug trafficking at the border by supporting stronger penalties for trafficking offenders and ensuring they receive no federal benefits if convicted.

TikTok Divestment

Blackburn is vocal about her concerns regarding TikTok. She expressed hope that the law would compel TikTok to undergo a divestment process, stating, “The data of U.S. users is not kept in the United States. It is housed in Beijing.”

She views TikTok as a potential security risk and believes the application could access transactional data across other platforms, posing a threat to American privacy.

Administration of Federal Agencies

Blackburn is committed to improving federal agency operations. She wants to see federal employees return to physical offices and implement a merit-based pay system. Currently, only 10% of federal employees are working full-time in the office, a figure she aims to increase during her term.

Presidential Nominees and Policy Grassroots

Confirming President-elect Donald Trump’s nominees is a top priority for Blackburn. Additionally, she plans to champion his tax cuts in Congress and improve access to medical care for veterans, ensuring the military has its needs met.

Summarizing her vision, she stated, “The American people sent a mandate in November. They want to see action.”

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