WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), co-chair of the Senate Olympic and Paralympic Caucus, and Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) introduced two resolutions honoring Minnesota Olympians and Paralympians.

“Minnesota has a long history of producing some of the most talented Olympians and Paralympians in the world, and this year was no exception,” Klobuchar said. “I am extremely proud of these Minnesota athletes and all the members of Team USA who represented our country. With these resolutions, we recognize their remarkable achievements.”

“A heartfelt congratulations to every Minnesotan who competed in the Olympics and Paralympics,” Smith said. “You really put the best of our state on display during the games, all while overcoming the challenge of competing under the difficult circumstances that COVID-19 presented. Your talent, drive and hard work inspired all of us in Minnesota as we watched you compete. Congratulations to your families, friends and coaches who supported you along the way as well. I hope that you all feel the pride and joy we have for you.”

“Minnesota is so proud of our athletes who represented Team USA at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics,” McCollum said. “The commitment, grit, determination, and sportsmanship these athletes displayed represented our state well on the global stage. The 17 Olympians and 15 Paralympians from Minnesota are an inspiration to us all – including the first Hmong American to represent Team USA and the many others who brought medals home amid COVID-19 concerns and other challenges. With H. Res. 625 and H. Res. 650, I offer my most sincere congratulations to you all!”

The resolutions listed the names and accomplishments of Minnesota’s Olympians and Paralympians. A House version of both resolutions was introduced by Rep. Betty McCollum (D-MN) and cosponsored by Reps. Angie Craig (D-MN), Dean Phillips (D-MN), and Ilhan Omar (D-MN).

As co-chair of the Senate Olympic and Paralympic Caucus, Klobuchar has been a leading advocate for America’s Olympic and Paralympic athletes. 

In July, Klobuchar and Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) joined Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Shelley Moore-Capito (R-WV) as cosponsors of legislation to require all athletes representing the United States in global athletic competitions to receive equal compensation, benefits, medical care, travel, and reimbursement of expenses, regardless of gender.

In July, Klobuchar also joined Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Mitt Romney (R-UT), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), and Chris Coons (D-DE) in introducing a resolution commemorating the past success of the United States Olympic and Paralympic teams and showing support for Team USA in the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo, Japan.

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