Senator Blumenthal: Week in Review 5/22/2026-5/29/2026

Calling on Drivers to Slow Down, Move Over

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] - U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) urged motorists to be cautious on the roads as the summer travel season kicks off. Blumenthal reminded motorists to slow down and move over for first responders and emergency vehicles, and exercise caution on the roads this summer. The summer months are historically the deadliest period on the Connecticut roadways.

"Slow down, move over when you see road work-can save lives. Slow down, move over when you see a Good Samaritan or police or fire doing their work. Slow down, move over can save lives. Distracted driving, whether because of alcohol or cellphones, is a major menace. Please be cautious, be careful, and have fun," said Blumenthal.

Blumenthal further highlighted the importance of Slow Down, Move Over laws on Twitter/X.

"On the roads this Memorial Day weekend remember-slow down & move over. When you see a construction worker, a first responder, or a Good Samaritan, changing lanes can protect others & save lives," wrote Blumenthal on Twitter/X.

Blumenthal also highlighted several road safety initiatives including his Road to Zero Resolution, his National Move Over Day Resolution, passed by the Senate in December, as well as his Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Deaths Act, legislation introduced earlier this year to reduce the number of roadside and work zone fatalities.

"Road to zero is reachable and responsible. Roads must be made safer for all-pedestrians and bicyclists, as well as car users. Improved technology and increased investment provide the opportunity-and imperative-to cut road tragedies," said Blumenthal of his Road to Zero Resolution.

Applauding $30.8 Million Contract for Pratt & Whitney

Blumenthal, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, along with U.S. Senator Chris Murphy and U.S. Representative John Larson announced that RTX will receive $30.8 million for Pratt & Whitney to produce F35 engines.

"This $30.8 million contract modification to produce more Pratt & Whitney F135 engines is a solid investment in our state's defense manufacturing base and another vote of confidence for the unparalleled quality of Connecticut-made technology. Our military services and allies deserve nothing but the best engines, and the Joint Strike Fighter program is a critical piece of our nation's military readiness. We are thrilled to see our state's talented machinists and engineers recognized for their skill and ingenuity and will keep fighting to ensure that Pratt & Whitney remains the sole engine provider for F-35 fighter jets," the delegation said.

The contract modification, announced by the U.S. Navy, will support the construction of F135 engines for the Joint Strike Fighter program. Work will be performed in Cromwell.

Marking Memorial Day Across Connecticut

On Memorial Day, Blumenthal honored the brave members of the U.S. military who served and sacrificed for our country.

"This Memorial Day, approaching our great nation's 250th, we celebrate men & women who made us the home of the brave, and thereby the land of the free. They gave the last full measure of devotion, showing by their sacrifice that our freedom has never been free," wrote Blumenthal on Memorial Day on Twitter/X.

Blumenthal marked Memorial Day with events across the state of Connecticut over the holiday weekend

"Parades in Wethersfield, North Haven, & Redding on Saturday-great crowds, magnificent spirit, despite some rain & clouds. Thank you for showing up," wrote Blumenthal on Twitter/X.

"Milford braved the rain on Sunday for moving annual tribute to the fallen. Wreaths placed with prayers, despite a raw weather day. Thank you to the organizers & veterans," wrote Blumenthal on Twitter/X.

"Orange moved its ceremony indoors on Saturday-with beautiful essays by elementary school students & stirring tributes to all who gave the last true measure of devotion. Next year back to a sun filled parade," wrote Blumenthal on Twitter/X.

"Proud to march in Naugatuck on Memorial Day with Amanda Friedrich Durkin & family in memory of Sgt. David "Travis" Friedrich, along with veterans, soldiers, & many more. An outpouring of patriotism," wrote Blumenthal on Twitter/X.

Blumenthal Bulletin

Blumenthal joined CNN's Anderson Cooper to discuss President Trump's push for a $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund-ignoring the real needs of Americans.

Blumenthal called for AI regulations and oversight.

Blumenthal slammed the CFTS for lax regulations of prediction markets and crypto firms.

Blumenthal called out the Trump Administration for politicizing the Justice Department.

Blumenthal slammed Trump's Reflecting Pool project, highlight the corrupt no-bid contract and lack of adequate expertise.

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