As I reflect on these last ten days, the words of Pope Leo XIV at his inaugural Mass in St. Peter’s Square yesterday are a lesson for all of us.
“In our time, we still see too much discord, too many wounds caused by hatred, violence, prejudice, the fear of difference, and an economic paradigm that exploits the earth’s resources and marginalizes the poorest.” He later in his homily called for “unity that does not cancel out differences but values the personal history of each person and the social and religious culture of every people.”
We are more than halfway through May. We have a new Pope who gives us hope and important teachings. We have had too many mark-ups or consideration of budget bills in the middle of the night, so that the American people won’t see what is happening because most people are sleeping. Memorial Day is approaching, and we think of our veterans and those who gave their lives to protect our democracy. Spring abounds all around us. So while it seems easy to be down in the midst of some very tough times on many issues, we have to have hope, and May is a month of hope. It’s a time that reminds me we are in the middle of spring, a time for hope, new beginnings, and renewal. The word May is also known for loving, kindness, meditation, bringing forth feelings of compassion, connection, gratitude, peace, and joy. And honestly, we need that now more than ever.
Former President Obama reminded us, “Hope is that thing inside us that insists, despite all the evidence to the contrary, that something better awaits us if we have the courage to reach for it and to work for it and to fight for it.”
I have spent much of my time in Washington these last weeks fighting to protect Medicaid, Social Security, and Medicare. Republicans waited to hold the toughest Committee meetings on budget until this past week, and considered some of the worst cuts in health care and tax breaks for the rich in the wee hours of the morning, or in our case, in a marathon 27-hour session. Yes, I went strong for 40 hours before I saw my bed. We shouldn’t be considering legislation in the dead of night. But I kept fighting, as did my colleagues. And we need to educate the American people on what is really in this legislation being combined into “one Big Beautiful Bill.” Seriously, that is what Republicans are calling it when it comes to the floor.
The truth: the Medicaid portion and tax portion of the budget bill were passed out of committee with every Democrat opposing, because they are extreme bills by Republicans that are intentionally and cruelly taking healthcare away from at least 13.7 million Americans and raising healthcare costs for millions more so they can give giant tax cut to billionaires. Medicaid is efficient. Cuts, caps, or any changes to funding that reduce eligibility or make it more difficult to enroll in Medicaid risk harm to real individuals relying on the program for necessary services.
On the tax side, the nonpartisan Joint Committee on Taxation analyzed the Republicans’ tax bill and found that under their legislation, people making over $1 million per year will receive a 310-times larger tax break than those making less than $50,000.
The Republican budget also would make food more expensive for parents struggling to afford groceries for their children, seniors living on fixed incomes, veterans, and people with disabilities, to fund tax breaks for wealthy individuals and large corporations. Democrats on the Agriculture Committee offered amendments to the budget that would make basic needs programs work better for the people who need them, ensure struggling families could continue to afford food, and support family farmers who feed our nation. Republicans rejected every amendment. Instead of making the program work better for seniors and parents of children as young as seven years old, the Republican bill adds paperwork requirements to make accessing food harder. Instead of making SNAP more effective and efficient, the Republican bill slashes food assistance to the states. And it does all of this to fund tax breaks for wealthy individuals and large corporations at a time when we should be investing in rural America and uplifting the middle class.
It isn’t clear where this budget is going. But I will continue to keep you informed. I also want to point out conservative Senator Josh Hawley from Missouri observed, “A noisy contingent of corporatist Republicans — call it the party’s Wall Street wing — is urging Congress … to get back to the old-time religion: corporate giveaways, preferences for capital and deep cuts to social insurance…This wing of the party wants Republicans to build our big, beautiful bill around slashing health insurance for the working poor. But that argument is both morally wrong and politically suicidal.”
I am human, by the way, the bots got to me. But being home, getting around, just being at many different places, listening, talking, exchanging ideas, reminds you why this all matters and that the work I am doing is supported by many people in my district. But I do want to remind people that kindness matters. We can disagree, but civilly. Don’t attack with meanness and brutality. Fight for what you believe in - that matters. But it can be done in ways that are effective without destroying.
So I got around the district. Weddings, births, and funerals remind you of the rhythms of life and keep me grounded in many ways. I wish for more weddings and fewer funerals. The following is just keeping you up to date. Also, please let me know where you think I should be, what is on your mind, what you want me to work on, and meetings that educate me.
Legislative Update
TAKE IT DOWN Act
The bipartisan, bicameral TAKE IT DOWN Act was signed into law – a major legislative victory for women's and children's rights and privacy. I led this effort alongside a coalition of lawmakers, including Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Representatives María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Madeleine Dean (D-PA), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), August Pfluger (R-TX), and Stacey Plaskett (D-VI).
The increasing use of artificial intelligence to create and circulate deep fake pornography threatens the mental and emotional health and financial security of its victims, primarily women. Perpetrators have used deep fake pornography as a tool to harass, humiliate, and intimidate women online, often in response to them speaking out or advocating for themselves. This is a serious and growing issue I’m deeply concerned about. This bill provides a critical remedy for victims to ensure these images are removed and that perpetrators are held accountable. As new technology emerges, so too does the potential for new forms of abuse, and we must act swiftly to protect women from tech-facilitated abuse.
Discharge Petition
The Republican budget slashes Medicaid and food assistance with more than $1 trillion in cuts to programs that millions of Americans, including hundreds of thousands of our neighbors, depend on. Michiganders simply cannot afford these cuts, which will drive up costs, strip people of their health coverage, and leave kids hungry.
I’m fighting to protect Medicaid and food assistance for the people in my district who count on these programs to meet their basic needs. That’s why I signed a discharge petition to force an up-or-down vote on the Hands Off Medicaid and SNAP Act.
Reintroduced the bipartisan Protecting Firefighters and Advancing State-of-the-Art Alternatives Act (PFAS Alternatives Act) with Representatives Sam Graves (R-MO), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Tom Kean, Jr. (R-NJ), Dina Titus (D-NV), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Glenn Ivey (D-MD), and Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) to support the development of next-generation PFAS-free turnout gear for firefighters and better protect firefighters from the dangers of their work. Firefighters’ jobs are already dangerous enough, this bill will remove this unnecessary occupational hazard and help protect firefighters as they work every day to protect us.
End Price Gouging for Medications Act
Introduced the Bicameral End Price Gouging for Medications Act with Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT). This bill would lower prescription drug costs for all Americans and end pharmaceutical price gouging by requiring drug companies to offer medications in the United States at no more than the lowest price per drug in twelve other similarly developed countries—Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
Local Communities and Bird Habitat Stewardship Act
Birds play an important role in our ecosystems and our everyday lives, and we all have an opportunity and a responsibility to make our communities safer places for birds and people to live together. Bird populations in North America have experienced a significant decline, with an estimated 2.9 billion birds lost since 1970. This decline is impacting the health of our ecosystems.
Honoring Chad Carr, Commemorating DIPG Awareness Day
Commemorated Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) Awareness Day by introducing a bipartisan resolution with David Joyce (R-OH) and Michael McCaul (R-TX) to establish May 17 as DIPG Awareness Day and to support expanded research for treatments and care for DIPG. My constituent, five-year-old Chad Carr of Ann Arbor, lost his battle with DIPG in 2015.
No family should have to experience the devastating disease that is DIPG. We saw the strength and courage of the Carr family as Chad lost his battle with this rare pediatric brain cancer. His journey inspired our community to unite in the fight against it, and his family continues to fight for others. This resolution is a step toward educating the public and securing funding for research and treatment to one day find a cure.
Recognizing Endangered Species Day
For over 50 years, the Endangered Species Act (ESA) has been crucial in protecting America’s wildlife, protecting America’s imperiled species like the bald eagle, grizzly bear, and Florida manatee. As co-chair of the ESA Caucus, I introduced a bipartisan resolution with Don Beyer (D-VA) and Vern Buchanan (R-FL) recognizing May 16 as Endangered Species Day to highlight the ESA’s impact and the urgent need to prioritize conservation efforts.
The critical protections in the Engendered Species Act are currently at risk due to a Trump Administration proposal to rescind the definition of “harm” under the law. The proposed rule change would prohibit only actions that directly hurt or kill actual animals, but not the habitats they rely on. We know that habitat loss and destruction is the leading causes of species decline and extinction. If finalized, this change would be devastating to already fragile species and put currently healthy ones at risk.
The deadline for public comments is Monday, the 19th. I hope you will join me in raising your voice. You can submit comments here.
Designating May as “National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month
Introduced a bipartisan resolution with David Valadao (R-CA) to designate May as “National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month.” As a co-chair of the House Asthma and Allergy Caucus, I know how important it is to support increased education about their causes and how to manage them, and efforts to improve Americans' quality of life. Air quality, food allergies, and climate change all contribute.
Washington D.C. Update
Meeting VA Secretary Doug Collins
Our veterans deserve the best care possible. I met with Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins to discuss how we can ensure veterans across Michigan have access to the resources and support they’ve earned. It is critical that we ensure veterans have the care they deserve.
Launching the Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus
Public lands belong to all Americans, not corporations. Joined my colleagues in launching the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus to protect our precious natural resources, federal lands, and beloved species.
Led my colleagues in relaunching the bipartisan PFAS Task Force, alongside founding member Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA). As co-chairs, we are working to confront the most urgent environmental and public health threats facing America: the unchecked spread of toxic PFAS “forever chemicals” across the nation’s water, land, and communities.
I see the urgent threat of PFAS firsthand in Michigan, and this is a problem many communities across our country are facing and working hard to rectify. After years of fighting, the EPA recently issued a final rule to limit the levels of PFAS commonly found in drinking water, a key step in protecting public health. Unfortunately, the Trump Administration has moved to rescind this rule, which will allow PFAS contamination to continue to spread and poison more Americans.
Committee on Natural Resources Reconciliation
As we reconcile the federal government budget with the resolution passed by Republicans last month, the Natural Resources Committee met for 14 hours.
Last month, Republicans passed a budget resolution, which directs each committee on how they are to allocate federal funds. Committees are then tasked with figuring out which programs and areas to cut. We held a markup in Natural Resources to work on this budget bill.
Some of my Republican colleagues would like to turn our national parks and wildlife refuges into drilling and mining projects, but we must defend our public lands and the environment and the species they protect. I offered two amendments. The first was to prevent DOGE’s funding clawbacks from applying to fisheries, climate resilience, or harmful algae bloom forecasting in the Great Lakes. My second amendment was to support the Fish and Wildlife Service’s efforts to combat the highly invasive sea lamprey in the Great Lakes following Trump’s hiring freeze, which prevented the hiring of seasonal workers.
Energy and Commerce had their overnight budget reconciliation markup as well, where many vital programs and services were under attack, including Medicaid, EPA fuel economy standards, Home and Community Based Services for disabled and elderly individuals, drug affordability, internet affordability, and so much more. Overall, the committee markup lasted for 26.5 hours through the entire night, 30 minutes away from a record, and I was awake for 40 hours straight.
Republicans have proposed the biggest cuts to Medicaid in history, which would cause 13.7 million people to lose their health care, including at least 700,000 in Michigan. Medicaid is one of the most cost-efficient forms of health coverage, with lower total and per capita costs than all other major health programs. With few options for how to fill the budget hole left by cuts to Medicaid funding, states will be forced to consider cuts to coverage and benefits, leaving more people uninsured and underinsured.
The Republicans' health plan will make it more difficult for eligible Americans to receive Medicaid, harder to get coverage under the Affordable Care Act, and more challenging for providers to be compensated for care.
I offered one amendment to protect the environment and three health-related amendments to the Republicans' bill to try to ensure their legislation wouldn’t raise consumer costs or impede Americans’ access to healthcare. Republicans passed none. One of my amendments even supported the president's recent executive order to lower drug costs for consumers, but every Republican on the committee voted against it.
Spoke at the National Breast Cancer Coalition (NBCC) rally in the fight to end breast cancer. A special thanks to NBCC President and an old friend, Fran Visco, who has been in this fight since the 80s. This was one of the first issues I worked on, advocating for policies and action that support research, improve patient care, and increase awareness that one in eight women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
Protect Medicaid Vigil
The proposed Republican budget threatens families, children, seniors, people with disabilities, and everyone else who depends on Medicaid by stripping them of their health coverage. Joined Caring Across Generations for their 24-hour Medicaid vigil, where I shared the story of a Michigan family who would not be able to afford critical care and therapy for their child without Medicaid. We will not stop fighting for Medicaid and the millions of Americans who rely on it.
Chelsea Middle School Class
I always enjoy meeting kids who care and are engaged on important issues. Thanks to Beach Middle School in Chelsea for letting me hang out. They had a lot of great questions, mostly about Congress and the government, and a couple about my fashion.
Gun Violence Prevention Task Force
Grey's Anatomy and Station 19 star, and avid gun safety advocate, Jason Winston George, joined the Congressional Gun Violence Prevention Task Force meeting to talk about the importance of responsible gun use in TV and film.
Fisher House Foundation
Met with Fisher House Foundation Chairman and CEO Ken Fisher and President Dave Coker as they celebrate the opening of their 100th house. Fisher Houses are a home away from home near VA and military hospitals, so families can be close to their loved ones while they receive treatment without worrying about whether they can afford a place to stay. This allows them to focus on what is important - the healing process. We have two Fisher Houses in Michigan at the John D. Dingell VA Medical Center in Detroit and the Ann Arbor VA. I work hard in Congress to support them.
Michigan Health and Hospitals Association
Millions of Michiganders rely on Medicaid. Met with Michigan Health and Hospitals Association to talk about the importance of ensuring Michigan residents have affordable, accessible health care.
Disability Policy Roundtable
Joined a Disability Policy Roundtable with the National Organization on Disability Policy Ambassador and Former Representative Jim Langevin to discuss disability rights and the importance of Medicaid. As co-chair of the bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, I remain committed to advancing disability rights in lockstep with the community.
General Aviation Manufacturers Association
Met with General Aviation Manufacturers Association to discuss aviation safety and air traffic modernization.
MomsRising
Met with MomsRising to discuss key issues affecting women and families, including defending Medicaid and supporting caregivers.
Michigan Time
25th Anniversary of Women’s Center of Southeastern Michigan
The Women’s Center of Southeastern Michigan is a safe haven for many. Celebrated 25 years of service, looking forward to 25 more years making a difference, supporting the community, and being a light. We also honored Executive Director Marnie Leavitt’s 22 years of service to the organization and community. A well-earned retirement and next chapter.
Mother’s Day Time to Teal 5K and Fun Run
Spoke at the Mother’s Day Time to Teal and Fun Run to raise awareness and funds for ovarian cancer research. Grateful to the Michigan Ovarian Cancer Alliance for their vital work and to everyone who came out to show their support. I try never to miss this run.
My Brother’s Keeper
Joined the My Brother’s Keeper Breakfast meeting, an initiative that provides mentors, support, and opportunities for young boys and men of color. I love just sitting, talking to the kids.
Farmers Markets
Farmers’ markets are my favorite. Produce is already coming in. Spring brings the best fresh produce, including asparagus, beets, potatoes, peppers, scallions, mushrooms, an array of flowers, and so much more. This time of year, I hit 3 to 5 of them every weekend.
Reception Honoring Military Academy Nominees
Met with young people and their families from my district who I nominated and were accepted to attend U.S. Military Academies in the fall. I’m inspired by their hard work and enthusiasm to serve our country.
102.9 W4 Broadcasting From Ypsilanti Township Fire Station
Stopped by 102.9 W4 Country’s live broadcast from the Ypsi fire station with Chief Densmore. Spoke to the hosts and danced to the music, and I just love being with the firefighters. It’s great to be home.
code:POSSIBLE: The Ultimate Middle School Hackathon
Opened the games at the code: POSSIBLE middle school hackathon at Washtenaw Community College. These kids are so bright and creative, and I learn from them whenever we spend time together.
WayForward@EMU
Took the 6 AM flight home from D.C. to make it in time for the launch of WayForward@EMU. Talked to students focusing on traumatic brain injury, many of whom hope to become doctors. This is a great program to help young people realize and work toward career goals.
Embracing our Differences
Embracing Our Differences Diversity Day was a vibrant celebration of Michigan’s many cultures, which showcased the beauty of our community through art, music, dance, and food. Highlights included a fashion show featuring unique, handmade outfits and a variety of global cuisine. A reminder and celebration that more unites than divides us.
Ypsilanti Walk for P.E.A.C.E.
Joined the Ypsilanti walk for P.E.A.C.E. at the New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church in Ypsilanti Township. P.E.A.C.E. co-founder Pastor Joe Crout was there as well. This event brings people together who are working toward many shared goals, all for the betterment of our community and being there for our neighbors.
45th annual Huron River Day
Joined the 45th annual Huron River Day, enjoyed the music, art, nature, and just appreciated how important the river is to us.
In the News
Meet the Press
Joined NBC’s Kristen Welker on Meet the Press NOW to discuss her interview with Trump and more.
Joined Ali Vitali on MSNBC Way Too Early to discuss the Energy and Commerce reconciliation, including an amendment I offered to lower drug costs for consumers and more.
Joined Roop Raj on The Pulse to discuss our new Pope Leo XIV, the first American Pope, trade talks with the UK, and our important relationship with Canada.
Since coming to Congress, I have been tracking the cost of milk, eggs, and Diet Coke. This week, Diet Coke remained $6.99, but the deal changed from three for $15 to buy two, get two free. Milk is $3.19, a twenty-cent jump. Eggs a dozen are up a dollar at $6.79.
White House Tour Requests
White House tours can be requested through my website 90 days in advance of the date you wish to tour. We cannot submit tour requests for the White House more than 90 days in advance and tours typically fill 70 days in advance. The spring and holiday seasons are the most popular times to request tours. There are no waitlists for White House Tours. Additionally, U.S. citizens 18 years and older must now present a REAL ID or passport to access the White House.
