Rep. BarragánReintroduces Resolution to Honor National Hispanic Nurses Day
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44), along with Congressmen Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04) and Steven Horsford (NV-04), reintroduced a resolution to recognize September 22nd as “National Hispanic Nurses Day” and to honor the work of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN) for their advocacy and representation of Hispanic nurses.
The establishment of National Hispanic Nurses Day would call attention to the significant contributions of Hispanic nurses in their communities and across the country. In addition, National Hispanic Nurses Day spotlights the importance of culturally informed care within medicine, particularly in underserved communities.
This resolution also bolsters support for NAHN’s mission, which includes the promotion of health care equity and the elimination of health care disparities in the United States. NAHN has been the country’s leading professional society for Hispanic nurses for over 50 years. With nearly three thousand members, NAHN amplifies the voices of Hispanic nurses across the country.
“Nurses are the backbone of our health care system, and Hispanic nurses provide clinical skills and cultural knowledge that are highly valued in many underserved communities. As the sister of a nurse, I’ve seen the dedication of Hispanic nurses who serve our communities firsthand,” said Rep. Barragán. “I’m proud to reintroduce this resolution to recognize their contributions and NAHN’s efforts to support future generations of nurses.”
“Hispanic nurses lead with conviction and purpose, grounded in both our expertise and our dedication to the communities we serve,” said Veronica Vital, President of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses. “NAHN champions health equity, education, and leadership in a diverse, inclusive community where every voice matters.”
This resolution is endorsed by the National Association of Hispanic Nurses.
In addition to García and Horsford, the resolution is cosponsored by Representatives Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Luis Correa (CA-46), Jim Costa (CA-21), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Andrea Salinas (OR-6), Darren Soto (FL-09), Mark Takano (CA-39), Norma Torres (CA-35), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Juan Vargas (CA-52), and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07).
The full text of the resolution can be found HERE.
Congresswoman Barragán’s Statement on Her Vote on House Republicans’ Spending Bill
Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) released the following statement regarding her vote on House Republicans’ spending bill:
“I voted NO on House Republicans’ spending bill just now because the bill does nothing to solve the continuing health care crisis that Republicans created. This is a dirty bill that will continue to prevent millions of Americans from receiving the care they need.
House Democrats are fighting like hell to lower costs and reverse the health care cuts that Republicans made in their Big Ugly Law, and save YOUR health care.”
Congresswoman Barragán Hosts Over 16,000 Californians in Tele-Town Hall on Republicans’ Health Care Crisis
Long Beach, CA — Yesterday, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) hosted a Tele-Town Hall to address Republicans’ health care crisis and their ongoing attacks on affordable care. The Congresswoman was joined by over 16,000 constituents as she spoke about how Republicans’ refusal to extend the health care tax credits may lead to premium rates that are double or triple the current rate for many. Without swift action, millions of Americans could face thousands in higher annual costs, which will force many to choose between coverage or going without care. As the cost of living continues to rise, working Americans simply can’t afford a health care price hike.
Congresswoman Barragán was joined by Kelly Green, Director of External Affairs and Community Engagement at Covered California, who helped to answer constituents’ questions and share resources. The Congresswoman heard from constituents about their increased premiums and how the rising costs would impact their families. She also heard from people who wanted to know how they could find out if their health care premiums would increase, what Democrats are doing to stop health care costs from rising, and how the health care crisis could impact people regardless of their type of insurance.
“Americans deserve answers about why the cost of their health care is about to skyrocket,” said Rep. Barragán. “Republicans created this health care crisis. We’re already in our fourth week of the government shutdown. Republicans just stopped showing up to work while House Democrats have shown up ready and willing to negotiate to lower health care costs for millions of Americans and reopen the government. Tonight, we heard from people throughout our district who were concerned about the rising costs and whether they would be able to even afford health care next year. We will continue to reach out, listen, and make sure the truth gets out on how these Republican health care cost increases will impact Americans across the country.”
“Americans cannot afford a surge in their health care costs,” said Jessica Altman, Executive Director at Covered California.“Congress has an opportunity to step in and extend the vital health care tax credits that help keep costs low. We must safeguard the health coverage that millions of Americans depend on.”
Rep. BarragánLeads Bipartisan ResolutiontoSpotlightSpanish-Language Media During Hispanic Heritage Month
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (D-CA), Congressman Rob Menendez (D-NJ), and Congresswoman Maria Salazar (R-FL) introduced a bipartisan resolution to recognize the importance of Spanish-language media in the United States. Spanish-language media provides essential information on elections, public health, emergencies, and a way to engage in civics to the over 41 million Americans that speak Spanish at home.
“Spanish-language media is more than just information delivered in Spanish – it is a means of cross-cultural connection, a celebration of Latino culture, and empowerment for Spanish speakers to engage with their communities and government,” said Rep. Barragán. “I am honored to introduce this resolution alongside Rep. Menendez and Rep. Salazar during Hispanic Heritage Month to recognize the key role that Spanish-language media plays in community engagement and visibility for Latinos.”
“As someone who spent her entire journalism career in Spanish-language television before coming to Congress, I know the power of these outlets. They are the heartbeat of our community. Millions of Hispanics rely on them every day to stay informed, remain connected to their roots and navigate life in this country,” said Rep. Salazar. “Spanish-language media is not just information, it’s identity, opportunity, and empowerment. I’m proud to co-lead this resolution recognizing its vital role in keeping our community engaged and part of the American dream.”
“Sharing news and cultural content in Spanish is crucial to empowering our Hispanic communities in New Jersey and beyond,” said Rep. Menendez. “As a member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and the proud representative of Hispanic-majority district, I understand how important it is to have accessible news for everyone in our community. I am proud to support this resolution that commends Spanish-language journalists, broadcasters, and entertainers for their contributions to American democracy and society.”
Spanish-language media supports education, highlights Latino contributions to the arts, creates jobs in the news and entertainment sectors, and empowers speakers of the most widely spoken language outside of English in the United States to engage with their communities and government. Breaking down the language barrier for Spanish-speakers not only brings visibility to Latino communities, it is a vital part of protecting American democracy and ensuring everyone has access to information about what’s going on in their country.
“Our stories matter,” said Axel Caballero, CEO, Latino Film Institute. “Not just on screen, but in every part of our cultural fabric. The Latino Film Institute proudly supports Representatives Barragán, Menendez, and Salazar’s resolution honoring the impact and presence of Latinos in entertainment and news media, and we remain committed to building pathways that empower our voices and shape the future of the industry.”
“Spanish-language media is not just a communication tool,” said Javier Palomarez, President and CEO, United States Hispanic Business Council. “It’s a cornerstone of American democracy. For millions of families, it is their trusted source of news, culture, and connection. This resolution rightly recognizes the vital role these outlets play in informing, empowering, and uniting our communities. I strongly commend Congresswoman Barragán, Congressman Menendez, and Congresswoman Salazar for their leadership. At a time when millions of bilingual households are losing access to Spanish-language networks like Univision due to corporate greed, this resolution is a timely reminder that access to culturally relevant news and programming is not a luxury. It’s a necessity. Spanish-language media isn’t just about equity. It’s about strengthening the democratic and cultural fabric of our nation.”
“A healthy democracy centers the lived experiences of all its people,” said Claudia Ruiz, Senior Policy Advisor for Civil Rights,Unidos U.S. “Spanish-language media makes that promise real. It’s how 41 million people access emergency information, stay informed about their rights, and see their experiences celebrated and authentically represented. With misinformation rampant and our fastest-growing communities in need of trusted sources more than ever, Spanish-language media empowers and protects communities. UnidosUS is proud to support Representative Barragán’s resolution recognizing what our communities have always known: we deserve to be informed, celebrated, and heard.”
“Spanish language media is essential to provide the US Latino community with reliable and trusted news, emergency information, culturally relevant content and a showcase for Latino talent,” said Frankie Miranda, President and CEO of Hispanic Federation. “At a time when the Latino community is now over 68 million—fully 20% of the US population—it is vital that content providers ensure their line-up includes quality Spanish language media offerings that reflect the needs and interests of the fastest growing segment of their audience.”
“HTTP (Hispanic Technology and Telecommunications Partnerships) proudly supports this bipartisan resolution recognizing the essential need for Spanish-language media in the United States,” said JudeAnne Heath, Executive Director,HTTP. “Today more than ever Spanish language media, along with diverse voices, are not just desirable—they are vital for a functioning democracy, consumer fairness, and community resilience. Spanish language media serves as a cornerstone for millions of Americans, providing them with reliable news, emergency information, and opportunities for democratic participation. Moreover, it empowers youth through authentic storytelling inspiring them to pursue education, careers, and leadership. It is imperative that we strive for dignified representation for all individuals within the United States.”
“The National Association of Hispanic Publications supports this resolution recognizing the essential role of Spanish-language media in our democracy,” said Alvaro Gurdián, President, National Association of Hispanic Publications. “For decades, our publications have been the trusted bridge connecting millions to the information they need, in the language they understand, in an authentic voice . At a time when the truth is not always clear, our members provide the local, reliable information our audiences need to navigate the issues shaping their lives as well as their families.”
“Media is a bedrock of our democracy, at its best helping people make sense of the world across regions, cultures, and languages. Free Press Action is honored to support this resolution highlighting the fundamental role Spanish-language media plays in ensuring communities have access to trusted news and vital information. This resolution is particularly critical this Hispanic Heritage Month when we should embrace cultural visibility and linguistic representation for Latinos throughout the United States,” said Jessica J. González, Co-CEO of Free Press Action.
In addition to the co-leads, this resolution is co-sponsored by Rep. Yasamin Ansari (D-AZ), Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL), Rep. Kevin Mullin (D-CA), Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA), Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-TX), Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Rep. Nellie Pou (D-NJ), Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Rep. Juan Vargas (D-CA), Rep. Troy Carter (D-LA), Rep. Dan Goldman (D-NY), Rep. Sylvia Garcia (D-TX), Rep. Doris Matsui (D-CA), Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-NM), Rep. Andrea Salinas (D-OR), Rep. Timothy Kennedy (D-NY), Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA), and Rep. Lori Trahan (D-MA).
Organizations that support this resolution include the Latino Film Institute, United States Hispanic Business Council, Unidos US, Hispanic Federation, HTTP, National Association of Hispanic Publications, and Free Press Action.
Rep. Barragán Introduces theStop the Trump Electricity Price Hikes Act
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) introduced the Stop the Trump Electricity Price Hikes Act, legislation to reverse the Department of Energy’s action that announced the mass termination of clean energy awards on October 1, 2025. The cancellations, which target Democrat-led states, are a blatantly partisan and illegal attempt by Donald Trump to go after Democrat-led states during the Republicans’ government shutdown.
The bill would reinstate all financial assistance awards terminated by the Department of Energy (DOE) under the Trump Administration’s political purge of over 300 clean energy projects. These cancellations total more than $7.5 billion in funding that was lawfully approved by Congress and threaten thousands of jobs across the country.
“Trump’s Administration is gutting clean energy projects, eliminating good-paying jobs, and driving up electricity costs for families already struggling with higher bills,” said Rep. Barragán. “Electricity prices have already soared this year from the Administration’s attacks on clean energy. Instead of working to lower costs, this Administration is pulling the plug on projects that would deliver cheaper, cleaner power for households. This is a direct attack on working American families and our clean energy future.”
The bill responds directly to DOE’s October 1st action, which terminated funding for projects across 16 states — including grid reliability and modernization initiatives, solar energy development, advanced battery technologies, major hydrogen hubs, and university-led research and innovation programs.
Among the projects targeted is the ARCHES Hydrogen Hub in California, an initiative for clean hydrogen development that was expected to create thousands of union jobs and reduce pollution from the Port of Los Angeles.
The Stop the Trump Electricity Price Hikes Act ensures that all awards terminated are fully reinstated and treated as if the cancellations never occurred.
The bill is cosponsored by Representatives Sarah Elfreth (Md.), Bonnie Watson Coleman (N.J.), Yassamin Ansari (Ariz.), Emily Randall (Wash.), Derek Tran (Calif.), Judy Chu (Calif.), Suzanne Bonamici (Ore.), John Garamendi (Calif.), Lori Trahan (Mass.), Dianna DeGette (Colo.), Andrea Salinas (Ore.), Val Hoyle (Ore.), Troy Carter (La.), Luz Rivas (Calif.), Janelle Bynum (Ore.), Dan Goldman (N.Y.), April McClain Delaney (Md.), Rick Larsen (Wash.), Scott Peters (Calif.), Paul Tonko (N.Y.), Julia Brownley (Calif.), Andre Carson (Ind.), Sarah McBride (Del.), Pramila Jayapal (Wash.), Nydia Velazquez (N.Y.), Jim Costa (Calif.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Cleo Fields (La.), Leger Fernandez (N.M.), Mullin (Calif.), Lofgren (Calif.), DelBene (Wash.), Sherman (Calif.), Ross (N.C.), Kathy Castor (Fla.), and George Whitesides (Calif.).
Rep. Barragán’s Statement on Republican Government Shutdown
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Barragán released the following statement after Donald Trump and House Republicans shut down the federal government:
“Donald Trump and Republicans decided to shut the government down tonight,” said Rep. Barragán. “They had no interest in working with Democrats to keep government open and address the health care crisis facing Americans. House Republicans were so unserious about the situation that they didn’t even show up for work this week. My Democratic colleagues and I are in Washington, ready to vote to reopen the government with a bipartisan agreement that protects Americans’ health care. Republicans control the House, the Senate, and the White House — they own this shutdown and this health care crisis.”
If Congress does not extend the health care tax credits immediately, hundreds of thousands of people will lose their health care and millions more will see their costs skyrocket. But the partisan House Republican spending bill ends these health care tax credits.
If Republicans get their way, 22,000people in California’s 44th District, will see their health care costs rise. For a family of four earning $64,000 a year,annual premiums would increase by $2,143on average.
Congresswoman Barragán Holds Community Discussion To Highlight Devastating Consequences of Current Health Care Crisis
Long Beach, CA — This week, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) held a round table discussion in Long Beach to address the combined impacts of the recent cuts to Medicaid and pending expiration of the health care tax credits that will take affordable, accessible health care away from millions of Americans. She was joined by representatives from major health care networks to discuss how best to support and advocate for the health care needs of the CA-44 communities.
“Congress must step up to extend the health care tax credits,” said Rep. Barragán. “Millions of Americans will already suffer from the devastating cuts to Medicaid, the largest that were made in our country’s history. The health care tax credits relieve the heavy burden of the increasing out-of-pocket costs and ensure that Americans receive the care they need. If we let the tax credits expire, millions will lose their coverage and this will drive up costs for working families across the country, regardless of whether they rely on the tax credits. Everyone deserves to have affordable health care and Congress must work together to get this done for the American people.”
“I want to thank Congresswoman Barragán for her leadership to engage with hospital, physician, nurse and community clinic leaders on the importance for renewing the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits,” Barry Arbuckle, PhD, CEO for MemorialCare stated. “ The consequence of Congress not acting now to extend these subsidies, will only put greater strains on the existing healthcare infrastructure throughout our communities. When individuals do not have health coverage, they stop receiving preventive care, making chronic conditions acute and hospital emergency departments the only option for care.”
The event was hosted in collaboration with MemorialCare and had representatives from MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center, Miller Children’s and Women’s Hospital Long Beach, MemorialCare Medical Foundation, The Children’s Clinic Family Health, and Harbor Community Health Centers.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Garamendi – Representing California’s 3rd Congressional District
BENICIA, CA – Today, at his 12th annual Women of the Year event, Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA-08) honored 54 women from California’s 8th Congressional District who are leaders and visionaries in their communities. Each honoree has made a real difference in our community through public service, business, education, and the local economy.
“As a member of Congress, I pride myself on uplifting the outstanding constituents of our district. Every year, I’m honored to celebrate the remarkable women here in California’s 8th District who make up the backbone of our community,” Garamendi said.
“These women come from every part of our district and from diverse backgrounds. They work in many different fields, but each is united by the profound impact they have on our community and the people around them. It is truly an honor to recognize them.”
“Their commitment and passion for service merit this recognition, and through this award, their contributions will be preserved and documented for generations in the official Congressional Record in Washington, D.C.,” Garamendi said.
A video of the event can be found here. A legislative update that was shared at the event is available here.
The 2025 Women of the Year Honorees are:
Contra Costa County:
Carolyn Wysinger (El Cerrito) Cheryl Collier (Richmond) Eguonor Onofeghara-Omoko (Bay Point) Lakisha Mitchell-Keith (Richmond) Lucinda Bazile (Hercules) Marie Carayanis (El Sobrante) Miriam Wong (Richmond) Naomi Williams (Richmond) Regina Whitney (Richmond) Rennae Ross (Pittsburg) Rita Xavier (San Pablo) Sarah Wally (Richmond) Sonia Bustamante (El Cerrito) Tanya Jacobs (El Sobrante) Tiffany Harris (Richmond) Trina Jackson-Lincoln (Richmond) Yvette Williams-Barr (Richmond)
Solano County:
Alize Johnson (Vallejo) Andrea Sorce (Vallejo) Annie Frias-Ramos (Vallejo) Brittney Greer (Fairfield) Callie Augustson (Fairfield) Carol Abreu (Benicia) Charmaine Gandy (Fairfield) Delphine Metcalf-Foster (Vallejo) Diane Power Zimmerman (Fairfield) Dr. Latyna Young (Vallejo) Dr. Nicola Parr (Fairfield) Dr. Sheila McCabe (Fairfield) Fatimah Hanif (Vallejo) Gloria Malgapo (Vacaville) Heather Henry (Fairfield) Jana Modena (Fairfield) Jennie Mojica (Vallejo) Joy Bruno (Fairfield) Judge Terrye Davis (Vallejo) Kari Birdeye (Benicia) Katherine Stokes (Fairfield) Kim Castaneda (Vacaville) Lisa Nelson Bonnington (Fairfield) Brenda Strength (Fairfield) Malaysia Gallon (Vallejo) Marbeya Ellis (Vacaville) Maria Stats (Suisun City) Melissa Nickson (Fairfield) Michele Myhand (Fairfield) Rebecca Grasty (Suisun City) Shelmae Turner (Fairfield) Salud Asaeli (Fairfield) Sriya Srinivasan (Fairfield) Ny Vu (Fairfield) Vilma Aquino (Vallejo) Yajaira Rubio Machado (Vallejo)
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)
BOWIE, MD– Today, Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) and Glenn Ivey (MD-04) hosted a roundtable with federal workers, local labor leaders, and officials from the Moore-Miller Administration to discuss the harmful effects of Republicans’ ongoing shutdown of the federal government. Representatives from the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), and the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) participated in the discussion. Federal employees shared stories about the trauma and pain Donald Trump, Russell Vought, and Congressional Republicans have inflicted on the federal workforce not only during the 23 days of the shutdown but throughout the ten months since Trump took office. The Congressmen highlighted their efforts to support federal workers during this challenging time, as well as House Republicans’ continued absence from Washington and refusal to negotiate a deal to reopen the government.
The Congressmen also detailed the consequences Republicans’ inaction will have for Marylanders’ health care costs. According to the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange, if Republicans allow the tax credits for the Affordable Care Act to expire, 190,000 Marylanders will see their monthly health premiums go up by an average of 68 percent. Another 110,000 Marylanders would see an average increase of 17 percent.
“I have always said that shutdowns are a stupid, arrogant, and costly policy,” Congressman Hoyer said. “No one understands that dire cost better than our federal workers. For ten months, the Trump Administration has been treating them like ‘villains’ who ought to be ‘put in trauma’ – to borrow Russell Vought’s own words. Trump and Vought aren’t trying to reopen the government; they’re actively working to dismantle it entirely. House Republicans have been missing in action for weeks, preferring to flee Washington than work with Democrats on a bipartisan solution to reopen the government and keep Americans’ health care costs from skyrocketing when the tax credits for the Affordable Care Act expire at the end of this year. Until they choose to govern, I will continue working with the rest of Team Maryland to help our federal workers weather this storm.”
“Congressman Hoyer’s leadership in standing up for federal workers is exactly what Maryland needs right now. Across the D.C. region and specifically in Prince George’s County; thousands of dedicated public servants have been fired, RIF’d, or furloughed through no fault of their own. They deserve real support, retraining, and respect. Joining him here today to champion our civil servants is an important step to help inform the impacted workers and contractors. We will collaborate with our colleagues on Federal Team Maryland to fight against these job-cuts and strive to keep healthcare costs from breaking the backs of our constituents,” said Congressman Glenn Ivey.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) and Congressmen Sanford Bishop (GA-02), Mark Pocan (WI-02), and Glenn Ivey (MD-04) sent a letter to the Trump Administration demanding answers about Donald Trump’s sudden demolition of the White House’s historic East Wing. Despite saying he would not dismantle any part of the White House to construct a privately-funded ballroom, Trump tore down the entire East Wing in a matter of days. He did so without notifying or seeking approval from Congress. The Members questioned the legality of the action and raised concerns about how the project is being conducted and funded. The Members demand that the Administration testify before the Subcommittee to provide information regarding this project.
“Commencing demolition in this manner has come without the transparency legally owed to Congress and the public,” the Members wrote. “All presidents, including President Trump, are tenants by virtue of the votes of the American people. Changes to the People’s House should thus be transparent, publicly funded, and done with the consent of the Congress.” The letter continues, “…At a time in which our country is concerned with affordability and getting our federal government back up and running, we remain concerned that the Administration is courting public donors to stroke the President’s ego at the expense of American historical preservation and democratic values.” Full text of the letter is available here and below:
Dear Director Vought, Mr. Scharf, and Acting Director Bowron:
As the Members of the Appropriations Financial Services and General Government Subcommittee, we write to express concern regarding the imminent destruction of the East Wing of the White House and the construction of a privately funded ballroom on White House grounds. We are alarmed that the White House is proceeding without the requisite, legally required public review processes, including consultation and review by the National Capital Planning Commission and the Commission of Fine Arts. Enclosed are questions that we demand answers to immediately, consistent with Congress’ oversight responsibilities. Further, we request that you or a designated representative appear before the Subcommittee to provide testimony and information regarding this project.
Recent reporting and photographs suggest that demolition of the façade of the East Wing has begun, funded by the President and private donors. That has precluded the public’s ability to visit their seat of government. Officials have indicated that the demolition of East Wing may be completed as soon as this upcoming weekend. Further, President Trump has indicated that in addition to his personal contributions, private contributions, through settlements and other types of donations, have been solicited and received to fund this construction project. We continue to have concerns regarding conflicts of interest, including expectations of pay for play, for entities regulated by the administration.
Commencing demolition in this manner has come without the transparency legally owed to Congress and the public. All presidents, including President Trump, are tenants by virtue of the votes of the American people. Changes to the People’s House should thus be transparent, publicly funded, and done with the consent of the Congress. There is strong historical precedent of Congress providing funding for general upkeep and maintenance of the White House, as the White House is a reverent symbol of national significance that obligates us to consider historical preservation and the role of public engagement and transparency in making changes. These values have guided all administrations, going back to the public competition in 1792 that produced the building’s original design.
In addition to appearing before the subcommittee to testify, we demand that you provide the following information and documents no later than October 29, 2025:
1.President Trump promised that the East Wing’s structure would not be changed to build the ballroom, however current reporting suggests that the entire East Wing will be demolished as part of this project. What is being done to preserve the historic artifacts and nature of the building? What changed in the scope or nature of the plan to justify such a drastic change regarding impacts to the East Wing?
2. Please enumerate the donors who have contributed to any part of this construction project.
3. How much has each donor contributed and what is the method by which they have provided such contribution?
4. Are there any foreign entities or individuals contributing to the construction of the White House State Ballroom?
5. Announcements indicated that McCrery Architects designed the ballroom, Clark Construction is leading construction, and engineering is headed by AECOM.
a. Given we are currently in a lapse of appropriations, please enumerate whether the individuals conducting this work are being paid and under what authority such payment is being rendered. b. Please enumerate whether the contract was competed? If it was not competed, please enumerate why not.
6. Initial White House statements suggested the State Ballroom will be 90,000 total square feet with a seated capacity of 650 people. However, recent statements suggest it is now expected to hold 999 people. Please provide the plans, including the design, budget, and contracts.
a. What contingencies has the Administration put in place to prevent cost overruns?
7. Has the White House submitted ballroom plans for review and permitting by the National Capital Planning Commission? When will the White House do so and why did demolition commence in advance of such submission?
8. Will the “security enhancements and modifications” referenced in the July White House announcement to be provided by the United States Secret Service be paid for solely by personal and private donations or require appropriated funds from Congress?
9. The White House’s East Wing sits on top of the Presidential Emergency Operations Center. How is the facility being impacted?
10. The White House’s website continues to encourage outreach to Members of Congress in order to request a tour. However, tours have been cancelled since September 2025 for this renovation. When should constituents expect tours of the White House to resume?
Anyone who has done home renovations knows that demolition cannot be separated from construction. At a time in which our country is concerned with affordability and getting our federal government back up and running, we remain concerned that the Administration is courting public donors to stroke the President’s ego at the expense of American historical preservation and democratic values.