Columbia News

U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) appeared on Newsmax's American Agenda to discuss significant legislative issues, including President Trump's rescissions package and his proposed bill aimed at increasing penalties for assaults on ICE agents.

Senator Schmitt emphasized the importance of passing the rescissions package, highlighting its alignment with President Trump's core agenda. "Everybody’s on the same page. The President has indicated...this rescissions package is a very big deal," he stated. He pointed out that the package aims to eliminate $9 billion in what he considers wasteful spending and criticized federal funding for NPR, calling it an "ideologically captured news organization."

Discussing the Senate process, Schmitt noted the unique opportunity presented by the rescissions process which requires only 51 votes rather than the usual 60 due to filibuster rules. "It’s a full court press to make sure we have the votes to go do it," he explained.

In addition to budget concerns, Senator Schmitt addressed his legislation to double federal penalties for attacking ICE agents. He cited an increase in attacks attributed to rhetoric from political opponents and emphasized the need for stronger penalties. "We have legislation that we introduced this week that would double the penalties on any assault against ICE agents," he remarked.

Schmitt further defended ICE agents' roles in deporting individuals deemed dangerous and expressed concern over perceived opposition from Democrats towards immigration enforcement efforts. "ICE agents are doing dangerous work...they deserve our respect," he said, criticizing what he perceives as open border policies.