Been back in Washington for a week after a two-week district work period. The work I did was really important –got around, held town halls, was present at rallies, held multiple roundtables, had meetings with many different people, all concerned about what is happening – impacts on their jobs, program funding, schools, whether their Social Security checks will still come, will Headstart still exist, food banks worried about needs and not enough resources to meet them, foreign students challenged about whether it’s safe to go home for the summer, Great Lakes funding, continued cleanup of environmental sites, researchers with no idea on their grant status, young people saying research funding is too unstable and they need more security in their careers, hospitals worried about dramatic impacts on their ability to provide services, parents are worried that their children may not get the medical care they need, seniors are worried about the possibility of their loved ones getting kicked out of nursing homes and the list goes on.
It’s hard. The unknown is frightening, and when it impacts you directly, and how you might live and survive, it’s very real. So I listen, we do casework, we fight, we prepare, we organize, we legislate, we educate, and advocate, and that summarizes my life right now.
But we must have hope. The foreign students at the University of Michigan who had their visas revoked had them restored last week, though we still don’t know the reason they were revoked and must continue to understand and address the situation. The NIH Women’s Health Initiative, which I was an original member of and worked hard to have women included in federally funded research (yes, we have been more than 50% of the population since 1946) was eliminated and restored within 48 hours. The Courts continue to stand up for our Constitution.
The tough work of reconciliation now begins in the Congress, where we must determine the budget for next year, and Republicans will try to meet a very difficult number. I will fight for the priorities that matter to people in Michigan and my district: Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, clean and affordable drinking water, lowering prescription costs, affordable housing, lowering food costs and supporting our farmers, making sure everyone still has access to a good education, and programs like SNAP.
We must also look for ways to reduce government spending. I would start by looking at opportunities for eliminating waste and fraud at the Department of Defense, new contracts being signed that appear to cost more than previous ones, and I do not understand why billionaires need tax cuts that will be paid by serious and harmful reductions in programs such as Medicaid that provide critical services to young and old. I believe that decisions on cutting government programs should prioritize the well-being of the public and the efficient use of resources, involve a diverse range of perspectives, put all stakeholders at the table, and be prepared for tough decisions that serve the public good.
We also celebrated May 1, May Day, which symbolizes so many things important to me. When I was young, it was a celebration of spring, Mayday poles, and surprising good people in the community with a bouquet of flowers that morning. As a Catholic girl, it was also the beginning of the month where we honored Mary, our blessed mother, and we always had a ceremony where a statue of Mary was crowned with flowers. I still remember the honor of the year I was chosen to do it. It is also a day to honor the struggles and gains of the labor movement and is known as International Workers’ Day. I celebrated all three. Dropped flowers, lit a candle in Church, got off the plane and attended several May Day Labor Rallies in Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Saline. And Dexter had a Maypole. Rituals and traditions matter.
In the meantime, while Ann Arbor is always a farmer market staple and a rock for me, many markets are re-opening around the district, and I got to many of them this past weekend. Graduations at Eastern Michigan University and the University of Michigan saw the hopes and dreams of many realized. And yes, I had dinner with Derek Jeter. Also spent time with Ronald McDonald, dressed up for the Kentucky Derby, but I don’t wear hats, was in pink as I watched fun softball at U of M for breast cancer with Hutch, my favorite coach, and so much more. Remember to breathe, enjoy the spring, the flowers, the hope, and stay engaged. The lilacs in blossom by my front door center me as I walk by.
Let me know what is on your mind, call, email, or text. Let me know where I need to be, share what I need to know, and may our paths cross soon. The following is a summary of some of the work I have been up to; there is more. D2
Legislative Update
Access to Breast Cancer Diagnosis Act
Reintroduced the bipartisan Access to Breast Cancer Diagnosis Act with Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), my fellow co-chairs of the House Cancer Caucus. This bill requires insurance companies to cover diagnostic and supplemental breast exams without cost-sharing.
Current law requires insurance companies to provide no-copay coverage for breast cancer screenings, but that does not extend to the diagnostic testing, including 3D mammograms, MRIs, and ultrasounds, that are necessary in many cases, as an estimated ten percent of screening mammograms require follow-up diagnostic testing.
Early diagnosis saves lives, so no one should be unable to access critical testing because they can’t afford it. This legislation would eliminate financial barriers that prevent too many women from getting the diagnostic tests they need.
Calling on the Administration to Protect Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence
I led more than 100 of my colleagues in highlighting the Trump Administration’s decision to halt funding opportunities through the Office of Violence Against Women and the impact it has on survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
Domestic violence and sexual assault organizations are losing funding that provides services to those who need it most. This action by the Administration threatens the safety and well-being of survivors of domestic and sexual violence across the country. We cannot go back.
The bipartisan TAKE IT DOWN Act, which I co-led, passed with overwhelming support from both sides of the aisle and is heading to the president’s desk to be signed into law. Perpetrators have used deep-fake pornography as a tool to harass, humiliate, and intimidate women and children online, often in response to them advocating for themselves.
Watch my speech on the House Floor regarding this bill here.
California Clean Air Waivers CRA Vote
This was a very difficult vote for me. As a staunch defender of Michigan’s auto industry - the backbone of the American economy - and someone who also cares deeply about the environment, I was very torn on the right thing to do. As I said that day, I believe in preserving consumer choice, maintaining American leadership in innovation, defending the future of domestic manufacturing, and protecting the environment. They are not mutually exclusive. It is not the time to ban internal combustion engines either. The CRA had several legal flaws spelled out by GAO and the Senate Parliamentarian. While worried about consumer choice, it could open the door to striking down a wide range of federal programs, including Medicaid waivers, which would be dangerous. I voted no. But we need all stakeholders at the table - labor, manufacturing, suppliers, dealers, environmental groups, and consumers - to work together for the American people and figure it out so we can stay competitive in a global marketplace, meet consumer demand, and keep manufacturing in this country.
Watch my remarks on the House Floor regarding this bill here.
Energy and Commerce Committee Markup
We had a full Energy and Commerce Committee Markup last week, where a couple of my bills passed and made it out of committee. They will now go to the House floor.
The bipartisan Shandra Eisenga Human Cell and Tissue Products Safety Act requires the Department of Health and Human Services to implement policies to stop tuberculosis infections through research and the screening of tissue donations. Watch my remarks during the Committee markup on this bill here.
I spoke on the House floor in support of the bipartisan FUTURES Networks Act, which requires the Federal Communications Commission to establish a 6G Task Force, ensuring the United States stays at the forefront of innovation and global competitiveness.
Every American has the right to health care, period. If you’re sick, you should be able to go to the doctor without being worried about the cost of treatment or prescription medicine. Too many families must decide between putting food on the table and getting medical care that they desperately need. I joined Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Pramila Jayapal, as well as nurses, health care providers, and workers from around the nation, to reintroduce our Medicare for All Act.
Read more here and watch the press conference here.
Heartland Caucus Press Conference
The Heartland is the heart of America, where we make things and grow things. I held a press conference with Heartland Caucus members to highlight the impacts of Trump’s first 100 days on workers and industries in the Midwest.
Labor Caucus Press Conference
Federal workers are nurses, food inspectors, law enforcement, and more, and they keep our country running. But Trump tried to illegally strip federal employees of long-standing collective bargaining rights. It’s union-busting, and I joined my Labor Caucus colleagues to call it out.
American Society of Hematology
Met with Dr. Winegarden from the American Society of Hematology to talk about the importance of protecting access to care for individuals with hematologic conditions and issues related to sickle cell disease. To do so, we must protect Medicaid and push for smart policies that support long-term care
Michigan Time
Town Halls
We have held multiple townhalls across the district in the last few weeks, which have been well attended, and most have had overflow crowds. People have many questions, are worried, anxious, scared, mad, and want answers. We have done town halls in Ann Arbor, Plymouth, Washtenaw Community College, Canton, Downriver, Novi, Fox Run, tele-townhalls, and smaller forums in other towns and villages, and we are scheduling more.
Watch the Canton Town Hall here and the Novi Town Hall here.
Rallies
There were many rallies organized by multiple groups over the last couple of weeks as well. People want their voices heard. They want answers. They want positive action. They want to know how to know if people care. They want their Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid protected. There are numerous programs they rely on that are at risk, like Head Start and SNAP. Farmers have no clarity and need help. Veterans want their healthcare and the people they count on to be there when they go. Firings scare them. Other government employee firings atthe EPA, the Great Lakes Lab, HUD, Social Security, and the list goes on. They are also concerned about the Constitution, including freedom of speech, religion, press, and due process. The crowds are large.
Several mayors gave their state of the city or community annual report, and I was glad to be able to get to several. The Plymouth Chamber sponsored the State of Plymouth Community Luncheon with Mayor Suzi Deal, Township Supervisor Chuck Curmi, and Plymouth-Canton Schools Superintendent Monica Merritt. Also had the pleasure of attending Northville State of the Community Luncheon with Mayor Brian Turnbull, Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo, and Northville Public Superintendent Dr. RJ Webber.
Joined the Conference of Western Wayne meeting to discuss many issues, share information, and work to improve the lives of over 700,000 people in the 18 communities the conference represents. It's important to see so many leaders engaged, interested, and caring.
Earth Day Events
There were multiple Earth Day celebrations across the district, and I tried to get to as many as possible, including the Chelsea Chamber of Commerce event, the EPA lab rally, and the fair in Milan, the Ann Arbor Township tree giveaways, and Superior Township Tree Planting and Kite Day.
Medicaid Executive Directive Signing with Governor Whitmer
Joined the governor and my colleagues to highlight potential impacts on Michigan, as the governor signed an executive order to spell out the specific impacts Republican Medicaid cuts would have on Michigan.
Congressional Republicans have proposed the biggest cut to Medicaid in history, which jeopardizes millions of Americans’ health care coverage, including 2.6 million Michiganders. Americans on Medicaid can’t afford to go uninsured or have their benefits cut. We will continue to defend Americans' health care and prevent millions from losing their coverage.
Suppliers keep our auto industry running, and we must ensure they have certainty and stability. Joined Representative Lisa McClain for a bipartisan discussion with auto suppliers to understand their concerns and needs.
Auto Dealer Roundtable
America must continue to advance our auto manufacturing to remain competitive in the global marketplace – that means giving companies the certainty they need. Dealers are an important part of the auto ecosystem and facing many challenges. Thanks to the auto dealers who joined Governor Whitmer and me for an important, candid conversation.
University of Michigan's Briskin Symposium
Spoke at the University of Michigan Briskin Symposium about women’s health to ensure every woman has the opportunity to lead a safe, strong, and healthy life.
University of Michigan's Housing Bureau for Seniors
Joined the University of Michigan's Housing Bureau for Seniors for an important conversation about the growing crisis of senior housing affordability. As housing costs continue to rise, more families face the threat of eviction and foreclosure. It's clear—we must prioritize and expand access to affordable, sustainable housing solutions. Many seniors are more challenged in these times, with few options. Choosing between housing, food, and medicine is too real for too many.
Headstart
No one can do their job if their children aren’t cared for, but access to quality, affordable care is out of reach for many American families. I joined Tutor Time in Canton to discuss the importance of investing in and expanding access to care.
EPA Tour
The hard-working men and women of the Ann Arbor EPA lab work at the leading site in the world that provides emissions testing services for motor vehicles, heavy-duty engines, and nonroad engine programs. They also ensure our nation is on the cutting edge of research and science. Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib and I joined the new EPA Region 5 Administrator, Anne Vogel, to visit the lab.
Meeting with Washtenaw County Leaders and Senator Slotkin
Senator Slotkin joined Washtenaw County leaders and myself to discuss the potential impact of federal dollar cuts on Michigan’s local governments. County leaders have been discussing and preparing, and it was an important discussion.
Arkema Meeting
Joined Downriver Community Conference to discuss the continued cleanup of Brownfield sites, specifically Arkema as well, and the importance of having local manufacturing and businesses flourish in our Downriver communities.
Meeting with League of Women Voters Presidents
Met with the Presidents of local League of Women Voters chapters to discuss the SAVE Act and the impact it will have on women voters, as well as a number of other issues important to our democracy. The LWV is strongly opposed to the SAVE Act.
Garrett's Space Groundbreaking
Teenage suicide is unfortunately increasing, too many young people feel isolated and don’t know who to reach out to or how. Garrett’s Space will work to address this crisis and help prevent more families from feeling this pain. I’m proud to have secured $4 million in federal funding to establish this new residential center and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community. It was an honor to join co-founders Scott and Julie Halpert and community members for the groundbreaking.
WEMU
President Trump has called for NPR and PBS funding to be cancelled. We must support public broadcasters and the role they play. Joined WEMU to discuss the importance of NPR and PBS and the role it plays in our local community's ability to get important local, balanced news as well as other programming that helps educate all of us.
Congressional Art Competition
Congratulations to the MI06 Congressional Art Competition winner, Chanyoung Kim, a junior from Novi. I am always extremely proud of the impressive work from our students and the talent they possess. Kim’s artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol alongside the other winners. I must also mention our runner-ups: 1st runner up was Tony Marhall, a senior from Lincoln High School, and 2nd runner up was Sophie Lisak, a sophomore from Atelier School of Art.
Farmers Markets
May brings the reopening of farmers markets around the district, with many reopening this week from Trenton, Chelsea, Saline, Dexter, Ypsi, among others. Produce is savory - asparagus, lettuce, and much more to come. It’s a perfect time for produce and fresh flowers, as well as baked goods.
RED's 35th Anniversary
Joined Washtenaw County Farm Bureau’s celebration dinner for the 35th anniversary of Rural Education Days, also known as Project RED. Agriculture plays an integral role in our community, and it’s important we continue providing students with meaningful opportunities to learn about farming, which Project RED does.
SWRC Black Tie Gala
Flew in time to attend the Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber’s annual Black Tie and Gala and Expo. Talked with local small business owners, non-profit leaders, and many other community leaders.
Manchester Fire Chief Retirement
Joined in celebrating the retirement of Manchester Fire Chief Bill Scully. 40 years of dedicated service and sacrifice, making the community a safer place.
70th Anniversary of the Polio Vaccine
Celebrated the 70th anniversary of the announcement of the Polio Vaccine. The announcement was made in Ann Arbor by Thomas Francis at the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health.
Went to the Annual University of Michigan Maize vs. Blue Football Game. Just good old friendly competition, and already getting us Go Blue fans excited for the season. Bryce Underwood was impressive.
Parkridge Easter Egg Hunt Extravaganza
Joined the annual Parkridge Easter Egg Hunt Extravaganza in Ypsi. The tradition has held strong for 38 years. Fraternities and sororities come together to give children in this community some fun. I love seeing everyone. The Easter Bunny makes me and the kids smile.
72nd Annual Brother Banquet
Spoke at the 72nd annual Brotherhood Banquet in Ypsilanti. The theme was “Unifying Our Community Through a Heart of Love,” which is more important now than ever. When you spend time listening to and learning from your neighbors, you realize there’s more that unites us than divides us.
Ronald McDonald House Charities' 13th Annual Red Shoe Affair
Attended the 13th annual Ronald McDonald House Charities’ Red Shoe Affair. The funds raised during this event directly support the Ronald McDonald House, which offers traveling families access to essential resources and a welcoming place to stay, just steps away from pediatric care in Ann Arbor.
Power of the Purse
Attended United Way Southeastern Michigan’s 2025 Power of the Purse event. Money raised will be reinvested into local organizations working to improve financial stability for women in need across our community. Congratulations to this year’s Woman of the Year, Dr. Rose Bellanca, President and CEO of Washtenaw Community College, for her outstanding leadership and impact.
Burns Park Elementary School Centennial Celebration
Spoke at the Burns Park Elementary School Centennial Celebration, where young and seasoned joined together to celebrate 100 years of education. It was a great event honoring the school's legacy and its impact on the community.
ISAIC Honors
Spoke at the second annual Industrial Sewing and Innovation Center (ISAIC) Honors. Sustainable manufacturing practices, like those used by ISAIC, are key to reducing the environmental impact of the textile industry and paving the way for a greener future.
Pancakes for Prevention
Child abuse sadly remains too much of an issue in our communities. I joined local leaders for a discussion on the issue and how to protect our children and give parents and adults support.
Michigan Medicine Lunch
Attended the Michigan Medicine Women’s Health Luncheon and heard from UM alum Jill Martin, NBC TODAY show contributor, best-selling author, and breast cancer survivor.
Trenton Rotary
I love my Rotary Club and wish I weren’t in Washington sometimes when they meet. I was the Speaker at my Trenton Club last week. Rotary Clubs make huge differences in their communities, giving to many, emphasizing service to others, fellowship, integrity, and leadership.
Two Detroit Economic Club Meetings
Joined two Detroit Economic Club meetings this month. I got to hear Governor Whitmer at the first meeting, and the Detroit Lions were at the other. This is one of the strongest economic clubs and speaker forums in the country, and I have been on the board for some time.
Vaisakhi Celebration
Vaisakhi is a Sikh holiday which marks the creation of the Khalsa. It was good to join the Canton and Plymouth communities for this celebration. Learned at the event that it stands for saintliness and warrior. As I reflect on these times, these are both important to how we approach these times, remembering our values and practicing them, but also the need to be prepared to defend them.
Festifools in Downtown Ypsilanti
Time for joyfulness in Ypsi in the midst of so much. Community knowing laughter, hope, and renewal keep us together.
Eagle Scout Recognition for Audrey Louise LaChance
Congratulations to Audrey LaChance for achieving the prestigious Eagle Scout rank, the highest honor in the Boy Scouts of America. As a senior at Early College Alliance at Eastern Michigan University, Audrey’s accomplishments are a testament to her hard work, and I am happy to have remarkable young people like her stepping up as leaders in our community.
Plymouth/Canton High School Students
Very good dialogue with students who are obviously very engaged and asked great questions. Good to see them asking tough questions, caring about their democracy and wanting to be involved.
In the News
CNN's The Situation Room
Joined CNN’s The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer and Pamela Brown to discuss Abrego-Garcia’s case and more.
As you know, I have monitored grocery prices since becoming a Congresswoman and am tracking the cost of milk, eggs, and Diet Coke. This week, Diet Coke remained $6.99 or three for $15, and Milk for $2.89. Eggs a dozen are down by over a dollar to $5.79.
Ypsilanti Post Office Job Fair
The Ypsilanti Post Office is hosting a job fair Friday, May 9, 2025, from 10 AM -2 PM at the Ypsilanti Post Office, 1606 S. Huron, Ypsilanti, MI. If you can’t make it but are interested, contact LocalServicesMichigan1District@usps.gov.
