Congresswoman Norma Torres Statement on the Passing of Pope Francis

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)

April 21, 2025

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Norma Torres issued a statement following the news of the passing of Pope Francis:

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Pope Francis. He was a humble man who dedicated his life to promoting peace and mending division. He cared profoundly about the plight of migrants and refugees in line with the teachings of the Catholic Church, and spent a lifetime living the values of care and compassion.

“As a freshman in Congress, I will always remember the Pope’s address to us in 2015. He made an appeal to our common humanity, to care for the most vulnerable among us, to be better stewards of our planet, and to promote respect for all.  This message is needed now more than ever.”

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Trahan Statement on the Passing of Pope Francis

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)

LOWELL, MA – Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) issued the following statement after the passing of Pope Francis:
“I join the millions of people around the world mourning the passing of Pope Francis, a transformational leader whose humility, compassion, and moral clarity touched the lives of so many.
Born in Argentina to an immigrant family, Pope Francis brought a unique and powerful perspective to the papacy – one grounded in empathy for the marginalized and a deep understanding of the struggles facing ordinary people. His decision to become the first pope to choose St. Francis of Assisi as his papal namesake was a profound reflection of his commitment to humility, peace, and care for the poor, values that guided every step of his leadership.
Whether advocating for the most vulnerable, calling on global leaders to act on climate change, or urging the Church to be a more welcoming place for all, Pope Francis led with a spirit of love and service. His legacy will endure in the countless lives he uplifted and the hope he brought to those who have too often felt unseen.
May he rest in peace.”
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Rep. Moore Statement on Passing of Pope Francis

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Riley Moore (WV-02)

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Riley M. Moore issued the following statement on the passing of Pope Francis, Bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church:

“Mina and I join fellow Catholics in West Virginia and across the globe in mourning the loss of Pope Francis and praying for the repose of his soul.

“In his final message – shared just yesterday for Easter – the Holy Father wrote: ‘Christ is risen! These words capture the entire meaning of our existence, for we were not made for death but for life.’ A fitting end to a papacy focused on joy.

“I encourage all Catholics to join me in praying and fasting for the Holy Father and for the Catholic Church as She begins to select a new successor to St. Peter.

“Eternal rest grant unto him, o Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace.”

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Rep. Mike Kelly statement on death of Pope Francis

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) issued this statement following the death of Pope Francis.

“Today, I join my fellow Catholics in mourning the loss of Pope Francis. Throughout his papacy, he symbolized and championed peace and a better world for all. May we continue the Pope’s mission in our daily lives,” said Rep. Kelly.

Latta Statement on Passing of Pope Francis

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)

Latta Statement on Passing of Pope Francis

Washington, April 21, 2025

Today, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) released the following statement on the passing of Pope Francis:

“Today I join in mourning the passing of Pope Francis. The first pope from the American continent, he brought a unique perspective to the universal church as a Jesuit and a shepherd from Argentina. I pray for his eternal rest.

“May his memory be a blessing.”

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McGovern Statement on the Passing of Pope Francis

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA)

McGovern Statement on the Passing of Pope Francis

WORCESTER, Mass., April 21, 2025

WORCESTER, Mass.—Today, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA), Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee, released the following statement on the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis:

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Pope Francis. His Holiness led with courage and compassion—and he understood that faith is about more than words, it’s about action. He didn’t just talk about feeding the hungry—he fed the hungry. He didn’t just denounce oppression—he fought for justice. He defended the dignity of immigrants and worked to end war and bring about peace. And in doing so, he taught people of all faiths how to live with integrity and purpose. For me, Pope Francis has been a source of hope and inspiration in difficult times. I hope his successor carries forward his vision of a Church that puts faith into action and leads with humility and service by caring for the most vulnerable among us.” 

Amata Welcomes HHS Grant for Cancer Coalition  

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is welcoming a grant notice Friday from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for the American Samoa Community Cancer Coalition. 

The grant, a new award of $143,693 for research on aging, is categorized as a small research grant project, and from HHS’s National Institute on Aging. 

The project is described as a culturally grounded approach to understanding and improving Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (ADRD) knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors for American Samoa’s family caregivers. 

“Thank you especially to Dr. Danielle Eakins for the effort behind securing this HHS backing and her research work,” said Congresswoman Amata. “Thank you to all involved in American Samoa, that we might have the knowledge to care lovingly for those going through any ADRD symptoms, which affects the whole family. We appreciate HHS and National Institute on Aging for supporting our community.”

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Congressman DeSaulnier Announces Town Hall in Lafayette

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier Representing the 11th District of California

Walnut Creek, CA – Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) announced he will host a town hall in Lafayette to share the latest on his efforts to fight back against Trump Administration actions that are hurting the American people, like cuts to health care and programs they rely on, the gutting of federal agencies, and violations of constitutional rights on Wednesday, April 23rd from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. PT.

In addition to sharing updates on his work in Congress, Congressman DeSaulnier will take questions from constituents. 

Town Hall on Standing Up For America 
Wednesday, April 23rd
6:30 – 7:30 p.m. PT
Lafayette, CA
RSVP for Location

 

The event is RSVP only and capacity is limited. To reserve your spot or request special accommodations, visit https://desaulnier.house.gov/town-hall-rsvp or call (925) 933-2660. 

This will be Congressman DeSaulnier’s 231st town hall and mobile district office hour since coming to Congress in January 2015.

Ranking Member Johnson’s Statement on Federal Judge Weighing Contempt Against Trump Administration

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, Artificial Intelligence, and the Internet, issued the following statement after U.S. District Judge James Boasberg ruled there is “probable cause” to hold the Trump Administration in criminal contempt of court for violating his order pausing any deportations under the Alien Enemies Act: 

“I support the judiciary in using its authority to ensure that the Trump Administration complies with court orders. 

“This is what checks and balances look like. 

“This is how our government is supposed to function. 

“No one is above the law.”

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Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi Condemns Antisemitic Graffiti at Northwestern University

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

SCHAUMBURG, IL – In response to reports of antisemitic graffiti discovered at Northwestern University this week during Passover, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi issued the following statement: 

“I condemn in the strongest terms the vile antisemitic graffiti discovered at Northwestern University earlier this week during Passover. Targeting Jewish students and the community during a sacred time of remembrance and resilience is especially hateful. We must stand united against antisemitism in all its forms and ensure those responsible are held fully accountable.”