Sen . Tommy Tuberville Discusses Drug Transparency , Election Security , and Border Drones

abc3340.com · Feb 27, 2026 · Collected from GDELT

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WASHINGTON (WBMA) — U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville addressed a range of federal and state issues during a teleconference with ABC 33/40 News, highlighting new legislation on drug labeling, election security, border concerns, and more.Push for Drug TransparencyTuberville opened by discussing new legislation aimed at increasing transparency in the pharmaceutical industry.“Over the last few decades, we have shipped our manufacturing overseas and weakened our domestic production. What is not talked about nearly as much is how we have also outsourced generic drug production to countries like China and India,” Tuberville said.He warned about safety concerns related to overseas production.“Many of these countries do not have the same safety standards as the United States, which is extremely dangerous.”Tuberville said the proposed Clear Label Act would require country-of-origin labeling for medications and their ingredients in order to receive FDA approval.“Americans deserve transparency when it comes to the medicines they put in their bodies.”Election Security and the Save America ActTuberville also discussed efforts to strengthen election laws through the Save America Act, which would require government-issued photo ID for federal elections.“The right to vote is one of the most sacred privileges we have as Americans. Americans who exercise this right deserve to know that their vote counts,” he said.Tuberville cited polling support for voter ID requirements.“Eighty-three percent of Americans support showing a government-issued photo ID to vote in federal elections, including 71 percent of Democrats.”He rejected criticism of the proposal.“Requiring a government-issued photo ID is not racist, and it is not controversial. It prioritizes American citizens and taxpayers.”When asked whether a passport would be required under the proposal, Tuberville clarified:“A passport would not be required. The proposal focuses on government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license.”He acknowledged the difficulty of passing the measure given Senate rules.“Unless there is bipartisan support or procedural changes, overcoming a filibuster is challenging.”DHS Funding and Immigration EnforcementWith Department of Homeland Security funding nearing expiration, Tuberville addressed negotiations in Congress.“Democrats have attached several conditions to DHS negotiations, including policy changes regarding ICE enforcement. I do not support measures that would limit ICE officers’ ability to perform their duties.”He added:“Federal law provides that individuals here illegally are subject to deportation. Law enforcement officers must be able to enforce the law safely.”Drone Activity at the Southern BorderTuberville was also asked about reported drone incursions at the southern border.“This is a rapidly changing environment,” he said. “Drones are here to stay, and we must remain proactive in both defensive and offensive capabilities.”He noted that U.S. Northern Command is actively addressing the issue and emphasized ongoing investment in drone technology, including manufacturing in Alabama.Alabama Public Service Commission BillAsked about proposed changes to how Alabama Public Service Commission members are selected, Tuberville expressed support for the legislature reviewing the structure.“It is critical that utilities are responsible with taxpayer dollars. The Public Service Commission must align with state leadership to keep utility rates down and prevent unnecessary regulations.”He added:“We must ensure qualified individuals oversee utilities, not politicians seeking their next position.”Politics in SportsTuberville, a former college football coach, also weighed in on political messaging in sports.“I believe it has increased,” he said of political influence in athletics. “The United States has long-standing cultural and Christian values, and when those values are criticized or challenged, many Americans respond strongly.”He emphasized free speech while calling for preservation of tradition.“This is a free country, and everyone has the right to speak. However, we should preserve the principles and traditions that have defined this country for 250 years.”Other IssuesWhen asked about the Tristan Hollis Memorial Act concerning police pursuit policies, Tuberville said:“I have not reviewed that bill yet. I will need to examine it before offering a comment.”On reports involving a U.S. military commander, he added:“If any wrongdoing occurred, it should be investigated. No individual should be shielded from accountability if laws were broken.”