Office Hours with Senator Richard Burr

The discussion focused on the policy and regulatory developments most relevant to clients, including U.S.-China dynamics, FDA leadership changes, and the evolving cybersecurity landscape. A central theme was how organizations can use CISA guidance and practical cyber planning to strengthen resilience in a more uncertain operating environment.

Key takeaways

• CISA remains a key resource for organizations looking to strengthen cyber preparedness.
• Geopolitical volatility is increasing cyber risk and raising the stakes for business continuity planning.
• Leadership uncertainty at FDA and HHS may delay decisions that matter to regulated businesses.
• Now is the time to review recovery plans, backups, and critical third-party dependencies.
• Regular cyber training and employee awareness remain essential first-line defenses.

To gain access to the recording of this conversation, reach out to Che Webb.

This Office Hours session focused on near‑term policy and political developments in Washington, with particular attention to unresolved healthcare issues, fiscal pressures, and the compressed legislative window ahead of the midterm elections. Senator Burr and guests discussed what these dynamics mean for Congress, regulated industries, and organizations planning advocacy and risk mitigation strategies.  

Key takeaways

• The future of Affordable Care Act subsidies remains uncertain, with consensus leaning toward a short‑term or one‑year extension rather than a permanent solution.
• Healthcare policy is expected to be a central issue in the upcoming midterm elections, shaping legislative priorities and political messaging.
• A narrow legislative window early in the year increases pressure on Congress to act quickly before election‑year dynamics stall progress.
• Drug pricing and life sciences regulation, including market and reimbursement pressures, continue to be active policy areas with significant implications for industry stakeholders.
• Broader budget and fiscal negotiations, including the risk of funding disruptions, remain a recurring source of uncertainty for federal agencies and regulated sectors.

To gain access to the recording of this conversation, reach out to Che Webb.

This Office Hours session highlights key updates on global tensions, Homeland Security funding challenges, and the fast‑evolving implementation of the CHIPS Act across administrations. It also explores how semiconductor manufacturing, advanced chips, and data center infrastructure shape U.S. competitiveness, national security, and the future of AI‑powered technology.

Key Takeaways

• Iran’s escalating crisis is dominating U.S. foreign policy, increasing cyberattack risks and overshadowing updates on Ukraine, Gaza, and domestic security issues.
• Homeland Security remains partially shut down due to stalled funding negotiations, creating major concerns during an active period of global conflict.
• The CHIPS Act is shifting toward faster, direct funding for semiconductor and AI companies, with the Trump administration emphasizing financial returns and rapid industry investment.
• CHIPS program teams are under pressure to move quickly, balancing the need for speed with scientific rigor, strong evaluation processes, and responsible use of federal funding.
• Advanced chips and wafer production are critical for powering AI and data centers, making domestic semiconductor capacity essential for energy efficiency, infrastructure resilience, and long‑term economic security.

To gain access to the recording of this conversation, reach out to Che Webb.

FDA in Focus: 2025 review and 2026 outlook

In 2025, FDA concentrated on rebuilding and modernizing its internal infrastructure amid unprecedented organizational and leadership changes. Against the backdrop of a significant reduction in force, shifting regulatory philosophies, and evolving policy priorities, the Agency focused on strengthening food safety, advancing medical product innovation, and enhancing oversight across its programs.