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Graves, Missouri Lawmakers Champion Rural Health, Unlocking Access to Quality Care for Rural Communities

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sam Graves (6th District of Missouri)

September 23, 2025

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressional Republicans and President Trump recently delivered critical resources to rural communities in Missouri and across the United States that have long struggled to establish access to basic health care services. Under the new tax cuts for working families law, a $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) was created to help expand access to care in rural communities. States can apply for funding to help improve and sustain access to quality health care services and care delivery systems for such communities while recruiting and retaining a rural clinical workforce.

In a letter sent to Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe, Missouri Department of Social Services Director Jessica Bax, and Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Director Sarah Willson highlighting the RHTP program as a critical lifeline for rural Missouri and calling on officials to incorporate key policies in their application for RHTP resources, Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06), Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08) and members of the Missouri congressional delegation detail the immense health care challenges facing such communities:

“For the 20 percent of Americans – 60 million in total – that live in rural communities, insufficient access to health care is a daily crisis and contributes to worse health outcomes. These patients are often forced to drive an hour or more for basic medical services and face critical barriers when trying to receive specialized services such as oncology or maternity and obstetric care. The inability to directly and efficiently access care is devastating to rural communities across the country. It is unsurprising that rural patient cancer mortality is 13 percent higher than that of urban patients; that rural maternal mortality is twice as high as urban maternal mortality; and that rural mortality overall is 43 percent higher than urban mortality across natural causes. Access challenges are worsened when rural communities lose these critical service lines, or worse, their entire hospital facilities. Missouri has had 12 rural hospitals close in the past decade, reducing access to care for thousands of Missourians. Nationwide, nearly 200 rural hospitals have closed in that timeframe, while more than 100 rural hospitals have stopped providing maternity services in just the last five years. Nearly 400 rural hospitals have stopped providing chemotherapy services since 2014. We are committed to identifying the root causes of rural America’s health care access problem and engaging in meaningful solutions, such as the RHTP, to improve health care for the 60 million American families that need it most.”

Read the full letter from members of Missouri’s Congressional delegation here.

 

 

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Graves Condemns Schumer’s Government Shutdown

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sam Graves (6th District of Missouri)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) released the following statement after Senator Schumer and his caucus refused to vote for a clean continuing resolution passed by the House on September 19th.   

“It’s critical we keep the government open and continue paying our troops, air traffic controllers, Border Patrol agents, and other essential government employees who work to keep us safe every day,“ said Graves. “Chuck Schumer and his pals need to stop playing games and start doing what’s right for the American people. I can’t believe they can sit there with a straight face and demand things like ‘free’ healthcare for illegal immigrants—paid for with your hard-earned tax dollars—in exchange for keeping the government open. This needs to end today.”

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Congressman Al Green, Together with State Rep. Ron Reynolds and Councilmember Jeffrey Boney, Announce the Postponement of the Passport Day Event Due to the Ongoing Government Shutdown

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

(Houston, TX)—Today, Congressman Al Green, in conjunction with Texas State Representative Ron Reynolds and Missouri City Councilmember Jeffrey L. Boney, announced the postponement of the Passport Day event, originally scheduled for Saturday, October 11, 2025, for the Ninth Congressional District of Texas. Due to the ongoing government shutdown, the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agencies are unable to process applications or interviews in person at this event. 

According to the U.S. Department of State, the Passport Office currently remains fully operational with no change to its regular hours or services. Constituents may continue to apply for passports online through the Online Passport Renewal system, at U.S. Postal Acceptance Facilities, and at designated Non-Postal Facilities. Applicants are encouraged to visit Travel.State.Gov or call 1-877-487-2778 for updates on agency operations, verify facility hours, and appointment requirements. 

For those seeking Global Entry, either new or existing applicants should visit CBP.Gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs or call 1-877-227-5511. This U.S. Customs and Border Protection website will allow you to review the latest operations updates, eligibility information, access the Trusted Traveler Program account site, schedule an appointment at the nearest Enrollment Center, or review requirements for the Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) process.   

Congressman Al Green stated, “President Trump and the Republicans’ government shutdown has disrupted vital outreach efforts that directly serve our community. Events such as Passport Day are designed to make government services more accessible for families, travelers, and those who may not have the means or time to visit federal offices during regular business hours. My staff and I are going to continue to be available to assist with constituents’ needs. I also remain committed to rescheduling this event after agency operations resume so that constituents can receive the assistance they deserve. Please contact my office at 713-383-9234, Monday-Friday, from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm to get help with your federal agency needs.” 

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Congressman Al Green and Civic Leaders to Host Press Conference on Unjust, Republican, Healthcare Shutdown Crisis/Scheme Creating a Crisis with Higher Healthcare Costs

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

(Houston, TX)— We are now two days into an unjust, Republican, healthcare shutdown crisis/scheme, which creates a crisis/scheme with higher costs and less healthcare coverage for the American people. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had a dream that included justice for all. Donald Trump and Republicans have an unjust crisis/scheme to gut Medicaid, decimate the Affordable Care Act, and slash Medicare. Under the Republican, unjust crisis/scheme, millions will lose healthcare coverage, and millions more will face higher costs. Millions of Americans will lose health insurance under the unjust Republican crisis/scheme, and the Affordable Care Act tax credits will be decimated. There will be more than one trillion in cuts to medical care; this unjust crisis/scheme will allow a transfer of more than a trillion dollars from the sick and needy to the well-heeled and wealthy.

On Thursday, October 2, 2025, Congressman Al Green will host a press conference along with federal employees, union members, as well as civil rights and community leaders to address the Republican unjust healthcare shutdown crisis/scheme and its devastating impacts on healthcare costs, federal workers, and families across the nation. Dr. King reminded us in 1966 that injustice in healthcare is both shocking and inhuman because it often results in death. The profundity of Dr. King’s words still ring true two days into the Republican unjust healthcare shutdown crisis/scheme, that the Republicans can end whenever they choose because they have control of the House, Senate, and the Presidency. They own the power to end the unjust shutdown crisis/scheme they have created. At some point, after refusing to negotiate in good faith with Democrats, Trump and Republicans will vote to end their shutdown crisis/scheme after having caused much pain and suffering imposed by their dastardly shutdown crisis/scheme.

Click here to watch the Facebook Live Stream of the event.

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Congressman Al Green Introduces H.Res. 769 – the Original Resolution Affirming the State of Palestine’s Right to Exist

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

(Houston, TX) — On Friday, September 26, 2025, Congressman Al Green proudly introduced House Resolution 769 – the Original Resolution Affirming the State of Palestine’s Right to Exist. H.Res. 769 affirms that the U.S. Congress recognizes Palestine’s right to become a nation state, and it further reaffirms that Congress acknowledges the two-state solution as the only viable path to lasting peace in both Palestine and Israel. A copy of the resolution is accessible by clicking here.

Congressman Al Green stated, “I am proud to reintroduce the Original Resolution Affirming the State of Palestine’s Right to Exist. For too long, the just aspirations of the Palestinian people for statehood have been deferred. Just as Israel has a right to exist, so too does the state of Palestine. Only the establishment of a secure state of Palestine standing alongside Israel will bring a permanent end to this conflict. I invite my colleagues in Congress to demonstrate their support for a sovereign Palestinian state. It is time for us to affirm the same right to self-determination for Palestinians that we affirm for other peoples around the world.” 

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Rep. Jimmy Gomez Blasts GOP Shutdown in Tele Town Hall with 11,300 Constituents as Families Face Rising Healthcare Costs

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)


“Families are watching their healthcare premiums skyrocket,” Gomez says during telephone town hall with thousands of Los Angeles constituents

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Tonight, Rep. Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) hosted a telephone town hall with 11,313 constituents across Los Angeles to discuss the ongoing Republican government shutdown and its impact on families, federal workers, and the local community. 

During the call, Congressman Gomez answered questions directly from constituents and outlined the stakes if Republicans continue to hold the government hostage and refuse to extend Affordable Care Act healthcare tax credits. Without an extension, 4.2 million Americans could lose their health insurance, and up to 20 million will see their premiums increase by 70% or more. 

“I flew to Washington ready to keep the government open and protect families from higher healthcare costs,” said Gomez. “Instead, Trump and Republicans shut it down, and now families are watching their healthcare premiums skyrocket. I’ll fight every day to end this shutdown and make sure government works for working-class people trying to afford the rising cost of everyday expenses.” 

Constituents raised concerns ranging from the affordability of health coverage to delays in basic federal services. Congressman Gomez reaffirmed Democrats’ commitment to passing legislation that immediately reopens the government and protect the health and economic security of families across the country. 

Constituents who didn’t get a chance to join the town hall can still reach out for assistance or updates. Please contact Rep. Gomez’s office at (213) 481-1425 or visit https://gomez.house.gov/ for help with a federal agency, including Social Security, veterans’ benefits, immigration services, or Medicare. 

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Congressman Gomez Marks Two-Year Anniversary of October 7th Attacks

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)

Congressman Gomez Marks Two-Year Anniversary of October 7th Attacks

Washington, October 7, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) today issued the following statement on the two-year anniversary of the October 7th attacks: 

“Today, we remember the innocent lives lost two years ago on October 7th and the pain that sill endures for so many,” said Rep. Jimmy Gomez. “The violence must end, and every hostage must be brought home. 

The Congressman emphasized the continued suffering of families who have yet to see their loved ones returned, noting that the world cannot turn away from their struggle. Gomez reaffirmed his commitment to supporting all efforts that lead to peace in the region and the return of all hostages. 

This solemn anniversary is also a reminder of the ongoing human toll of conflict and the urgency of pursuing peace. Lasting security and justice can only come through a two-state solution, and Rep. Gomez is committed to keeping that goal at the center of international efforts in the region. 

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LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT MARKING TWO YEARS SINCE THE TERRORIST ATTACK OF OCTOBER 7

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

Today, to mark two years since Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries met with former Israeli and American hostages and the families of current hostages and released the following statement:

Two years ago, we watched in horror and heartbreak as Israel was brutally attacked by Hamas terrorists. Today, we are reminded of the painful reality that Israel and the Jewish people are in a constant struggle for their existence, and reiterate America’s commitment to the safety and security of our democratic ally.

As we solemnly commemorate the attack, we also recommit ourselves to the cause of eradicating terror and the achievement of a just and lasting peace in the region. That involves making sure that every single hostage who has been held in barbaric captivity for two years, living or dead, is released immediately. It is also critical that the devastation in Gaza ends now and that sustained humanitarian assistance is surged to Palestinian civilians who have been in harm’s way in a theater of war through no fault of their own. Hamas must lay down its arms, and a governance structure must be established that allows for normalized relations between Israel and the Palestinian people living side-by-side in peace, security and prosperity. 

Leader Jeffries meets with former Israeli hostages and the family of American-Israeli hostage Omer Neutra in his Capitol Hill office to commemorate two years since October 7.

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Rep. Gomez Urges State Department to Secure Release of U.S. Citizens Detained in Gaza Flotilla

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) is calling on Secretary of State Marco Rubio to take immediate action over the detention of crew and passengers aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. 

In the letter, Gomez instructed the State Department to “use the full diplomatic resources of the United States to secure the swift release of U.S. citizens and residents currently being held,” and emphasized that “it is the solemn obligation of the State Department, and the responsibility of the Trump Administration, to ensure their safe and fair treatment.” 

Gomez also noted that at least four Californians remain detained, including David Adler, Tommy Marcus, Geraldine Ramirez of Cathedral City, and Logan Hollarsmith of San Francisco. Further troubling is that many flotilla participants were intercepted outside territorial waters. 

The letter closed stating, “I continue to call for overwhelming humanitarian relief to be delivered immediately, alongside efforts to secure a lasting peace. Such a peace must include the safe return of the October 7th hostages, accountability through the dismantling of Hamas, an ironclad commitment to protect civilians, a swift end to military operations, and a permanent ceasefire. Only through these steps can we save lives and advance the promise of a durable two-state solution.” 

Read the full letter here

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Brownley Statement Marking Two Years Since the October 7th Attack

Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) issued the following statement marking the horrific attack on the State of Israel on October 7, 2023.

“Today marks two years since the horrific terrorist attack perpetrated by Hamas that killed 1,195 people and took 251 innocent people hostage, including 12 Americans. I join the international community in mourning the innocent lives lost on October 7, and I continue to call for the safe and immediate return of every hostage still held in Gaza.

“I also recognize the profound and devastating toll this war has taken on the Palestinian people. More than 65,000 Palestinians have been tragically and senselessly killed, and countless others have been displaced, injured, or face starvation and immense hardship. Hamas’s brutal actions not only brought unimaginable pain to the people of Israel, but also deepened the suffering of the Palestinian people, who have endured tremendous loss and hardship throughout this conflict.

“It is imperative that Israel work with the international community to ensure that critical humanitarian assistance reaches civilians in Gaza and that every possible step is taken to protect innocent lives. The cycle of violence must end, and a lasting peace must be built on safety, security, dignity, and self determination for both Israelis and Palestinians.

“We are at a decisive moment in global history, a crossroads that will define how we are remembered by future generations. All human life has value, and we must uphold the basic rights and human dignity of every person, everywhere.”

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