U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin, who serves as the Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has issued a statement following his meeting with Robert Cekada, the nominee for Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Durbin expressed concerns about recent changes within the Department of Justice. He stated, “Almost one year after Attorney General Bondi’s confirmation, the Justice Department has become a shell of its former self. It’s been weaponized to fulfill one President’s political goals."
He also addressed the potential impact of proposed budget cuts and organizational changes at ATF under the Trump Administration. According to Durbin, “ATF could play an important role in tackling our gun violence epidemic and keeping the American people safe, but the Trump Administration’s threatened budget cuts and realignment at ATF jeopardize its existence.”
Durbin indicated he plans to further question Cekada during his upcoming hearing. “I look forward to asking more questions of Mr. Cekada on his plans to protect this vital agency at his hearing,” he said.
