Dear Friend,
We are well into the holiday season, with holiday parades, Christmas tree lightings, community celebrations, food drives, and the celebration of rituals with the traditions that keep us together from generation to generation underway. Hopefully, you survived Thanksgiving dinner without intense political debates that divide too many families as we gathered for the first real post-COVID Turkey Day. Holiday shopping is well underway, with sales everywhere in stores and on the internet. And if you live where I do in Ann Arbor, and also represent the University of Michigan, the last two weekends were incredible with our victory over Ohio State and Iowa. We finished the season undefeated, we have been ranked number one in the country for the first time in 26 seasons, and we are headed for the playoffs at the Rose Bowl. Alabama is a formidable team, but our team has worked hard under very difficult and challenging times. I just know in my bones, that this is our time to show the country what Midwest grit and determination can accomplish. Little things (though for many, this is big) bring you hope, joy, and smiles.
Overlaying all remains the situation in Gaza, with so many having intense, passionate, sad, and fearful concerns. I spend significant time on this each day, talking with everyone throughout the district, in Congress, and with the Administration, I will talk more about this later in the newsletter, but my concern for the hate, division, and potential violence in this country remains stronger than ever and the need for all of us to stand up to hate critical to protect our democracy.
In the communities I represent, it is a transition time for many. Mayors who have served their communities for a very long time have chosen to retire, like Rockwood Mayor Dan Guzzi after 26 years, Mayor Gatt of Novi (12 years but another 8 on Council), Keneen Connelly in Belleville (12 years), Mark Hammond in Flat Rock (4 years). Scott Denison lost his election but I want to reiterate that he has done this job a couple of times, and he cares deeply about his city, so we thank him for his service as well. Public service is hard and more so in these challenging times of multiple crises, increased pressure on water and sewer systems, trash pick up and snow removal, public safety including law enforcement and fire, infrastructure, affordable housing, attracting business for a tax base, and the management of increasing disasters with floods and tornadoes, the list goes on. Ensuring our youth have access to a high-quality education - libraries remain essential, and in many communities, they are a tool to help community members engage with the ever-growing digital world. Getting broadband to every household is critical too.
This level of government is closer to the people, they often get the brunt of anger and frustration and we don’t thank those that serve often enough. I love every one of the mayors, supervisors, council members, trustees, and commissioners I work with. They care enough to be engaged, they need to listen and respond often under very challenging circumstances and I thank them for caring enough to know successful communities need leadership and engagement. I work on all the above issues with them, but their jobs are hard and I think sometimes people don’t think about all that is required.
Back in Washington, we have funded the government- parts through mid-January and others through early February. There remains a lot of work to accomplish, one to address those expiration dates and second, there are bills we need to get done this year. On top of the list is President Biden's supplemental funding request for Israel, Ukraine, the Indo-Pacific, and potentially the southern border. Congress also needs to deal with the FAA reauthorization, which is set to expire at the end of the year. The debate over pilot training and retirement requirements has slowed down talks. The bill should help increase the number of air traffic controllers which we urgently need as well. Other issues facing an end-of-year deadline include the National Defense Authorization Act and the reauthorization of section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. And honestly, to meet the next deadlines, we need to be making progress on the federal budget by passing appropriation bills in both the House and Senate- something that continues to be a challenge. We punted on the Farm Bill and did a continuing resolution on it through September 2024. And lots of other issues we all care about need attention, from lowering drug costs, getting lead out of all pipes, making water affordable, addressing environmental cleanup, auto issues, trade issues, privacy issues, global climate, etc … The list is long.
The week was also a very sad and reflective one for me. Many people I knew, loved, and worked with passed on. Starting with Rosalynn Carter, a mentor for me and someone I worked with on mental health issues, caregiving, and immunizations; Sandra Day O’Connor, a very special woman who I worked with on a number of issues after she retired from the Supreme Court; Kathy Power, a true partner to the love of her life Phil, a very special woman whose warmth, passion, and care made a difference in so many lives and issues; Bill McFarlane, Township Supervisor for 20 years in Superior Township and a Washtenaw Road County Commissioner-most importantly dear and loyal friend to John and I; Len Sabuda former Mayor of Wyandotte and such a special man who did so much for so many; the Reverend Charles Adams who ministered to so many, inspired, comforted and always had the right words; Rep. Tom Bliley, former chair of Energy and Commerce a distinguished and honorable gentleman and close friend to both John and I; my high school roommate, another close friend of my college roommates ……and more. it just seemed overwhelming with so many friends, memories, and caring, giving people. Everyone is special in different ways and always in my and many others' hearts. These are hard and difficult times in so many ways.
But before highlighting last week’s work, let me share a story. It’s been tough in many ways and I have a great staff working hard seven days a week, taking a lot of incoming flak as well. We decorate the office for the holidays and I have two very beautiful nutcrackers that have great sentimental value to me that greet you in my Washington office. Unfortunately, one had an accident this past week and the head fell off and the back and hair were smashed. It did look like Humpty Dumpty. And while the incident itself (stupid but real) may have been the straw that broke the camel’s back- they didn’t let it. After the workdays were done, they put it back together again in a miraculous way….the man at the hardware store told them it couldn’t be done. But let me tell you what a great team I have - they spent hours fixing it because they cared, and visitors are again greeted by the two nutcrackers. HOPE, FAITH, NEVER GIVE UP, CARE, AND COMPASSION makes a difference. I want to thank my team for this and the attitude they bring every single day for all our constituents.
Now here are more specifics of my work this last week.
My Statement on Combating Rising Hate in U.S., Calling for Release of All Hostages and Bilateral Ceasefire in Gaza and Israel
Since entering Congress, I have represented significant Arab and Jewish communities that I care deeply about. This is not the first time we have experienced division, but we are now in a moment where tensions have escalated to new levels. As I repeatedly say, I am deeply concerned about the hate and violence that continues to spread here at home. The shooting of three young Palestinian men the weekend before last in Vermont, students fearful of wearing identifying religious symbols such as the Star of David or a hijab or keffiyeh scarf on campus, the stories they share of bullying, vicious words, actual death threats, and disgusting acts like defecating in front of residence doors are examples of the escalating hate and unacceptable violence. Community members have shared story after story of hostilities directed at them and taking place at community events, and intimidation at regular religious services.
Many whom I have spoken to, regardless of their religious views, ethnicity, or political beliefs, are concerned for the safety of their families and their loved ones. The rise of antisemitism, anti-Arab hate, and Islamophobia in this country is real and the fear of these communities is tangible. We all have a responsibility to stand up to hate whenever we see it and work together to ensure everyone feels safe in this country. Bluntly, people are angry, and violence is becoming easier to slip into, and in some places, it’s becoming normalized. I will simply not accept this. I do and will continue to fight for the basic Constitutional rights of every American. I will stand up to hate wherever and whenever I see it. How do all of us work together to lower the level of hostility and hate in this country, and support efforts to listen to each other, learn, and find common ground? That is the strength of democracy and those who founded our government did. It requires everyone to be intentional and vigilant in these times.
On October 7th, Hamas terrorists killed more than 1,200 Israelis, and abducted 240 hostages, many of whom remain in captivity today and must be released immediately. I have and continue to unequivocally condemn the atrocities Hamas has committed, and I believe Israel has a right to safety and security. In its subsequent bombardment of Gaza, we have seen too much devastation and the horrific loss of more than 13,000 Palestinian lives, including more than 6,000 children. Innocent civilians – families who just want to live in peace – have been suffering horrifically in Gaza without access to food, water, medicine, and fuel. The current humanitarian aid is a beginning but far from enough to address the serious needs of people whose suffering has been compounded by the destruction that has occurred. I have spoken with families of hostages still being held against their will by Hamas, and many in my district who have family members that have been killed, are currently missing, or continuing to live in the turmoil of Gaza. Their pain is indescribable and real. And I have made sure their voices are heard in regular discussions with the White House and State Department. This violence from both sides must come to a permanent end.
For a few days, we witnessed successful diplomatic efforts to pause fighting and release hostages, and I believe it is critical to build on those efforts with a lasting ceasefire that secures the immediate release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas and initiates a steady and a substantial flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. A ceasefire must set the framework for Israel, Palestine, the United States, and our democratic allies to work toward a durable two-state solution that achieves lasting peace and stability in the region, including removing Hamas from operational control of Gaza.
The New York Times Editorial Board adeptly captured the challenge ahead: ‘The primary condition for any peace negotiation is that those who seek peace must lay down their arms and come prepared to make painful concessions…” The critical qualification is for each side to understand the yearnings and fears of the other and to accept that the other has a right to live in peace
Holiday Vaccinations
The holiday season is upon us and you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe and healthy by making sure you’re vaccinated against COVID-19, flu, and RSV (if you’re 60+). Visit http://vaccines.gov to find a vaccine near you. If you think you cannot afford it, help is available.
Please keep you and your family safe this winter- I got mine and I remain alive, something I always get scared about. I hate shots and medicine, to be blunt. But they help us and we shouldn’t be afraid of help to stay healthy.
Open Enrollment Reminder
THIS IS THE LAST WEEK TO ACT!!!!!
Every American has a right to quality healthcare. Plain and simple. John Dingell presided over the passage of Medicare and Medicaid 58 years ago- these programs have always been and will always be immensely important to me. This year, seniors are able to choose Medicare plans with new cost-saving benefits that came out of laws that Congressional Democrats and President Biden passed, including the Inflation Reduction Act. Medicare is a lifeline for millions of Americans, so I want to ensure you have the necessary information and resources to make sure you are getting the best plans and options that are right for you.
When is the Medicare Open Enrollment Period?
This year, the Medicare Open Enrollment period is open from October 15 to December 7, 2023.
What is the Medicare Open Enrollment Period?
Medicare health and drug plans can change each year with things like cost, coverage, copays, and what providers and pharmacies are in network. The Medicare Open Enrollment period is a time when all people with Medicare can change their Medicare health plans and prescription drug coverage for the following year to best meet their needs.
What does this mean for me?
If you qualify for Medicare (65 or older, but eligibility to sign up for Medicare begins three months before you turn 65 and ends 3 months after the month you turn 65), now is the time to review your options to ensure you make the best choice in coverage possible. Open enrollment allows you to reevaluate your Medicare coverage to ensure you are covered in a way that best suits your individual needs. This could mean lower costs for prescription drugs and copays, a change of in networks pharmacies and providers, and much more.
How do you know if you need to change your plan?
People on a Medicare health or a prescription drug plan should always review the materials their plans send them, like the “Evidence of Coverage” (EOC) and “Annual Notice of Change” (ANOC). If plans are changing, make sure your plan will still meet your needs for the following year. If your current plan meets your needs for next year and your plan is still being offered, you don’t need to do anything.
Where can I find Medicare plan information or compare Medicare plans?
For more information about Medicare Open Enrollment, click here or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). To compare plans, click here. To find care providers, click here. If you require TTY assistance, call 1-877-486-2048. Help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you live in Monroe, Oakland, or Washtenaw County, you can also call the Area Agency on Aging 1-B Senior Helpline at 1-800-852-7795. My office is here to answer your questions as well:
Ann Arbor: (734) 481-1100
Woodhaven: (313) 278-2936
Washington, DC: (202) 225-4071
Cure SMA Hope on the Hill
Wednesday, I joined Cure SMA to discuss efforts to address the needs of individuals living with SMA and support funding for research into treatment and care. I talked about the importance of investing in Home and Community Based Services (HCBS), caregiving infrastructure, strengthening our care workforce, and expanding coverage so people living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy have a real choice of care and support options to meet their own, individualized needs. Many individuals with SMA require in-home caregivers for assistance with daily living activities. Individuals with SMA report needing, on average, two to three caregivers to cover their 100+ hours of caregiving needs each week. We must continue to invest in our home and long-term care infrastructure so patients can get the care they deserve, caregivers are paid commensurate with their work, and family caregivers can get relief.
The EXPLORE Act
Wednesday, I joined Reps. Westerman and Grijalva in introducing the EXPLORE Act, bipartisan legislation to increase access to outdoor recreation opportunities for Americans regardless of age, ability, or zip code. It will help protect and preserve our most-loved parks and public lands with new programs to monitor visitation and reduce overcrowding. It will also strengthen our outdoor recreation economy, a $1.1 trillion industry that supports five million jobs. The ability to appreciate and enjoy the outdoors is essential for everyone – for health and wellbeing, to learn about our precious natural resources, and to connect with the world around us and each other.
As a co-chair of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, this legislation is especially important to me because it will make public lands more friendly for individuals with disabilities by creating new accessible trails and recreation opportunities. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to expand access to the outdoors for all.
The No PFAS in Cosmetics Act
Thursday, I led the reintroduction with Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Annie Kuster (D-NH) of the No PFAS in Cosmetics Act, which would ban the use of harmful forever chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in cosmetics. The legislation would require the Food and Drug Administration to ban the use of PFAS in cosmetic products within 270 days of the bill’s enactment.
PFAS chemicals are in products that we use every single day, including cosmetics and personal care products. What’s worse is that PFAS often aren’t disclosed on packaging and labels, meaning most Americans don’t even know they’re using them, or the dangers they pose. Studies have linked PFAS chemicals to a variety of health hazards, and we need a strong, bipartisan effort to address this crisis. The No PFAS in Cosmetics Act takes important steps to protect consumers and prevent the continued proliferation of dangerous forever chemicals
EPA Proposal to Replace All Lead Pipes
Thursday, the EPA announced a proposal to strengthen its Lead and Copper Rule that would require water systems across the country to replace lead service lines within 10 years.
The science is clear – no amount of lead in drinking water is safe. There are millions of people across the country that don’t even know if they are drinking lead, and I’ve had parents come up to me with tears in their eyes, worried for the wellbeing of their children because there is lead in the school’s water. The only way to get safe, clean water into Michigan communities – and communities across the country – is to urgently replace all lead service lines. That’s why I led efforts in the House to secure funding in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to replace these pipes and finally give a sense of peace to parents and families. I will continue to work in Congress and with the Biden-Harris Administration to see this through. This is a top priority for me and funding this program is essential, so I am fighting hard for this in the latest budget battles.
Committee Work This Week-It was a Busy One
This week, the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on the emergence of new technologies like artificial intelligence and how these technologies can both benefit and harm the way we address public health and national security.
AI could reshape public health and improve patient outcomes. But left unchecked, it poses serious risks to our national security. We must consider how we plan to embrace the proliferation of AI in a way that is ethical and keeps consumers safe
The Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment, Manufacturing, and Critical Materials held a hearing titled “America Leads the Way: Our History as the Global Leader at Reducing Emissions.” Climate change is one of the defining challenges of our time, and the scientific evidence of human-induced climate change is overwhelming. Left unchecked, climate change will lead to dramatic and irreparable damage to our environment, natural security, and natural resources. It’s critical the US leads the world by example during this transition to renewable and clean energy.
The Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held a hearing where I discussed the significant distrust of our public health institutions post-COVID-19. The COVID pandemic upended our nation, strained our health systems, stunted our economy, and disrupted children’s learning. As a result, we’re seeing lasting distrust in public health institutions. Misinformation about vaccine safety has fueled distrust of long-trusted, safe, and effective vaccines. In the United States, vaccination rates for preventable diseases like polio and measles have not bounced back to pre-pandemic rates because of misinformation. Now we’re in a pivotal moment to rebuild trust and confidence with the American people.
The Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology held a hearing with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel where I discussed the importance of access to reliable and affordable broadband. Far too many people in Michigan and communities across our country are still disconnected and unable to participate in today’s digital age. The Affordable Connectivity Program has helped tens of millions of American households get connected and reduce their broadband expenses. It’s critical that the Commission prioritizes equity, accessibility, and fairness as we continue to bring our nation’s infrastructure into the 21st century.
Food Gatherers Rockin' for the Hungry
This weekend, Food Gatherers, Ann Arbor’s 107one, and Kroger joined forces to raise funds to help Michiganders facing hunger. Food Gatherers’ network of food pantries, and grocery and meal distributions is a critical resource for food-insecure families, individuals, and seniors. Last year, Food Gatherers distributed 7.8 million pounds of food, the equivalent of 6.5 million meals, through its network of free food distributions. But this year, demand at food banks and food pantries has increased due to high food costs and the end of pandemic assistance programs. People are struggling to afford food and other necessities like rent and medication. We know that food security and nutritious eating are vital for improving our health, reducing disease, and ensuring our children can grow and thrive. Too many Americans live hungry and scared to death about how they are going to provide not just for themselves, but for their families. In this country, one in six people face hunger, and food insecurity exists in every county in America.
I am thankful for the work Food Gatherers is doing for Michiganders in need.
The Weekend
The last weekend was full, and this is when I just have to admit I cannot be everywhere at once. Friday, I landed, visited two funeral homes to hug families I knew and wanted to support, got to UAW Regions 1A’s Appreciation and Holiday party, where I saw so many friends, made the Christmas Parades in Flat Rock and Woodhaven (where Santa and I danced), and then raced to local UAW 898. I missed Manchester’s parade Friday night but toured the Holiday celebrations downtown on Saturday with the Mayor, visited with many, and saw Santa again! There were other tree lightings Friday night in Chelsea, Downtown Ypsi, Henry Ford Greenfield Village, and celebrations began in Belleville, Northville, and Northville Township, as well as Angels among us at Gordon Hall in Dexter. But I make up for not getting to them by visiting during the day. Saturday was even more challenging. Started at Dexter Forum, which matters to me because I get the unvarnished information that is on people’s minds. Gave a Washington update in Washtenaw and raced to Canton to have pancakes with Santa. From there, I made the Food Gathers event. I always try to make one robotic event a weekend and got to Chelsea’s Robotics Wrap-A-Palooza, which for everyone needing help with wrapping those gifts, will go on for the next three Saturdays as well. Manchester beckoned, and then there were all these festivals and parades. Trenton, Gibraltar, Belleville, Milan, Saline, Chelsea, Dexter, and throw in Christmas Tree lightings in Canton and Superior, and even Santa was a bit challenged. I didn’t have Rudolph like he did, so I got around and hit every city at some point during the day except Superior- but I will make it there next weekend. This is important to me. I want to be with people, be accessible, listen, hear what is on their minds, share their fears, try to have hope, and even try to feel the spirit of this holiday season. I am blessed to have this many communities in my district that care about community, have compassion, and empathy, and are engaged. I cherish being part of their families. Sunday might be a day of rest but it isn’t for me. Church and continued holiday festivals. We are blessed with so many things families can do.
The new week begins. What I want for all is peace. Peace in the world. Peace in our country and in our communities. And peace in our families and in our hearts. It’s a challenge right now but one I will spend every day fighting for. Stay safe. And as always, GO BLUE!
As always, I want to hear from you. What do you want me to know? What are you thinking about? Please contact me with any questions, ideas, and concerns. Share them with me at this link, or by calling one of my offices in Ann Arbor, Woodhaven, or DC:
Ann Arbor: (734) 481-1100
Woodhaven: (313) 278-2936
Washington, DC: (202) 225-4071
