Long-time Slashdot reader SonicSpike shared this report from CBS News:

Amid growing concerns of security risks to members of Congress, over 50 senators have been issued satellite phones for emergency communication, people familiar with the measures told CBS News… [Senate Sergeant at Arms] Gibson said satellite communication is being deployed “to ensure a redundant and secure means of communication during a disruptive event.” Gibson said the phones are a security backstop in the case of an emergency that “takes out communications” in part of America.