Following the conclusion of the American Revolutionary War and the failures of the previous Articles of Confederation, the new United States Constitution formally came into effect in 1789. Under Article I, the US Senate was established as part of a broader bicameral system designed to grant greater representation to smaller states and to counter the popular influence from the House of Representatives. As such, the Senate is represented by two senators from each state with the ability to pass legislation, declare war, confirm certain executive appointments, ratify treaties, and impeach federal officials. Currently, it is one of the most important organs of government, and its responsibilities carry long-lasting impacts on the nation. After thorough debate and research, delegates representing individual Senators will aim to write and present a bill which appeals to both sides of the aisle.
As a historical representation of the United States Senate, this committee will simulate the start of the 103rd Congress, meeting from January 3, 1993, to January 3, 1995, during the early years of Bill Clinton’s presidency.
This committee is specifically designed for intermediate and experienced delegates. Position papers, although strongly recommended, are not required. However, delegates who wish to be considered for an award must submit their position papers by January 12, 2026, at 23:59 PST. More information about position papers can be found in the Position Paper Guide, on the Delegate Resources Page. Bills passed in the Senate should be written in their entirety during the conference; no bills should be written in advance of the conference.
Topic A: Reducing Federal Budget Deficits (Click to show summary)
Budget deficits refer to the imbalance between federal revenues and outlays; essentially, spending outpaces income within a specific period. While deficits have traditionally remained as an established part of annual fiscal budgets, extreme federal spending in recent years has resulted in unprecedented levels of federal debt and borrowing by the early 1990s. Consequently, there is extreme fear over the long-term impacts of these structural deficits that may reduce government spending power, decrease fiscal credibility, and levy the heavy burden of debts on future generations. Currently, there are highly partisan discussions on potential solutions to this topic, which include measures to increase tax revenue, cut government spending, increase budgetary restraint, and reforms to core mandatory programs.
Topic B: Combating Violent Crimes (Click to show summary)
While violent crimes have always remained an issue throughout American history, by 1993, annual statistical rates had seen record increases in nearly all forms of cases. Not only are homicides, assaults, and firearms-related crimes increasing rapidly, but law enforcement clearance rates have simultaneously stagnated, resulting in high occurrences of inconclusive cases. These issues have decreased public trust in government agencies and have led to widespread calls for action. While the specific factors driving this new crime wave are still controversially debated, there remains general bipartisan support for increasing law enforcement capacity. Despite this, actual specifics and partisan policies, such as community-oriented initiatives and the institution of harsher sentences, remain heated subjects of debate.
Justin Guo | Director
In his Grade 10 year at Saint George’s School, Justin is excited to be the director of H-USS at VMUN 2026. Looking back to his first time as a delegate in Grade 6, he has wholeheartedly embraced the Model UN experience. Although he started unsure, nervous, and skeptical, the fast-paced diplomacy of the non-spectator sport quickly eliminated any doubts. From the many thrilling memories of last-minute dealmaking to the chaos that always unfolded in crisis committees, Model UN has forever held a special place in his heart. Away from the conference floors, he can often be found drinking an unhealthy amount of coffee or binge-watching new TV shows. Justin is incredibly excited for the complex and engaging discussions that will inevitably take place in this year’s iteration of VMUN.
Gurjot Dulai | Chair
As a Grade 12 student at Khalsa School Secondary, Gurjot is ecstatic to serve as the Chair of H-USS at VMUN 2026. Since stepping into the vast world of Model United Nations in Grade 9, Gurjot has been amazed by the fascinating experiences MUN offers. From giving her first speech in the World Health Organization representing the Dominican Republic to helping arrange this conference, she has truly grown. Shockingly, her first MUN conference was VMUN! Outside of Model UN, Gurjot can be found binge-watching Modern Family, reading crime novels, and teaching tricks to her pet birds. She hopes this iteration of VMUN will succeed, leaving delegates with new and cherished memories. Gurjot is excited to meet everyone in January!
Jestin Chang | Assistant Director
Entering Grade 12 at St. George’s School, Jestin is honoured to serve as the Assistant Director of H-USS at VMUN 2026. Ever since his first nerve-racking walk to the podium at a conference, he has been captivated by the passion and people in the world of Model UN. Whether it be the craze crises that seem to draw delegates to committees or the bonds built through wages of war, Model UN has always been something to look forward to. Outside of Model UN, Jestin can always be found seeking his next cup of coffee. Jestin wishes each delegate the best of luck in their preparation and looks forward to meeting everyone soon.
You can contact the Director at senate@vmun.com. Any questions regarding the committee or its debate procedures will be answered by email. Position papers must also be submitted to this address.