Senator Carter apologizes for heated hearing remarks; colleague raises concerns about social‑media misinformation and threats

Senator Carter addressed colleagues on the floor, apologizing for losing his temper during a recent hearing and saying he did not intend personal attacks.

"I lost my cool. I lost my temper during a hearing that we have Friday. There's no apologies for losing my cool," Senator Carter said, adding that he values the institution and friendships across the chamber.

Senator Morse (identified on the floor) responded to accept the apology but said that false statements circulating on social media have had real effects. He described receiving a large volume of hostile voicemail messages and said one included a threat against his office.

"The Democratic party put out a statement that is provably false," the responding senator said, arguing that social‑media amplification of inaccurate claims had led to harassment and threats. He urged colleagues to be careful about rhetoric because of its consequences outside the chamber.

Why it matters: The exchange highlights how floor rhetoric and post‑hearing public messaging can affect members’ safety and public understanding. Senators used the personal‑privilege period both to apologize and to call attention to the real‑world consequences of misinformation.

The personal‑privilege remarks concluded without formal disciplinary action; the exchange closed with members encouraged to follow up privately on outstanding concerns.