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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Crow (D-CO-06) issued a statement following President Trump and Secretary of Defense Hegseth’s meeting with military leaders at Quantico.

In a statement, Congressman Crow said:

“I went to war three times for this country. I served under some of America’s finest military leaders, many of whom attended today’s address in Quantico.

“Nothing said during today’s gathering necessitated hundreds of military leaders being forced from their posts, where they listened to nothing more than an incoherent speech filled with lies, threats, and contradictions. This administration jeopardized our security, disrupted command chains, and risked ongoing operations just for a campaign photo-op speech. 

“Imagine being Special Forces or Seal Team Commander. You’ve planned and executed hundreds of covert missions, led troops in some of the most dangerous places in the world, and now you’re being lectured about fitness and facial hair from a former Fox News host and a draft dodger.

“President Trump is right about one thing–the world is watching. Our allies are watching and so are our adversaries. What the world saw today was the President projecting weakness, not strength. On display today was a failing and increasingly unpopular President using our military and servicemembers as props, something that simply should not happen in democracies.

“Donald Trump is a national embarrassment.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06), Afghanistan and Iraq war veteran, Member of the House Armed Services Committee, and top Democrat on the bipartisan Cartel Task Force, introduced a War Powers Act resolution to block future unauthorized military strikes following the illegal use of force in the Caribbean Sea. 

“The illegal flow of drugs into the U.S. is a huge problem. But President Trump does not have the legal authority to launch military strikes in the Caribbean, or anywhere else, without congressional approval. The American people do not want to be dragged into more foreign wars. I put on the uniform to serve this country and did three tours in Iraq and Afghanistan that cost thousands of lives, trillions of dollars, and decades of lost opportunity. We owe the public a debate and vote before we ever send our servicemembers into harm’s way,” said Congressman Crow.

Crow’s resolution comes in the wake of unauthorized military strikes against boats in the Caribbean Sea that were not authorized by Congress. The Congressman supports bipartisan efforts to ensure that the Federal Government has the resources necessary to prevent drugs from entering the United States illegally. This resolution clarifies that Congress has not authorized the U.S. military to attack organizations and non-state actors involved in drug trafficking.

The resolution directs the President to terminate the use of armed force, while acknowledging the importance of supporting other efforts to prevent and mitigate drug and narcotics trafficking into the U.S.. It urges the President to work with Congress to combat the spread of illegal drugs.

The Trump administration has not provided, to Congress or the American people, sufficient evidence, legal basis, or a clear military objective for the recent strikes in the Caribbean. The resolution outlines ways that the President can meaningfully work with Congress to fight drug and narcotics trafficking, including through the use of intelligence, law enforcement, personnel, detection technology, and diplomatic efforts. 

Congressman Crow’s House resolution was also introduced by Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) in the U.S. Senate.

This resolution builds on Congressman Crow’s longstanding work to prevent war and keep drugs off our streets. He has been vocal about the need for Congress to re-assert its authority over the use of military force, and serves as the top Democrat on the bipartisan Cartel Task Force within the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. This bipartisan task force is working to identify legislative actions that can combat the threat from dangerous cartels in the Western Hemisphere, including narcotics trafficking, human trafficking, the arms trade, and other illegal and destabilizing activities.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

AURORA —  Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06) hosted an Affordable Housing & Family Resource Fair at Paris Elementary School in Aurora. During the event, Congressman Crow spoke about his work to lower costs, including the cost of housing.

“Housing is too expensive and rising costs are hurting too many families,” said Congressman Crow. “In Congress, I’m focused on lowering the cost of housing, groceries, and health care for Coloradans. I’m proud to hold this first-ever Affordable Housing and Family Resource Fair to connect our people with information and resources as they look for affordable housing in our community.”

The event featured more than 30 community organizations from across the Denver Metro Area who provided information and resources to Coloradans regarding affordable housing, including The Redress Movement, Colorado Housing and Finance Authority, Progressive Urban Management Associates + Public Alignment Communication, Arapahoe County Community Resources, Aurora Public Schools, Goodwill of Colorado, Arapahoe County, The Salvation Army, Poverty Reduction Unit – Adams County, Brothers Redevelopment, Inc., Food Justice NW Aurora, Servicios de La Raza, Arapahoe County Human Services, South Metro Housing Options, Colorado Legal Services, Housing & Urban Development, CEDP – Community Economic Defense Project, Arapahoe/Douglas Works!, The Village Exchange Center, Food Bank of the Rockies, 211 Colorado Mile High United Way, Stride Community, Health Center, Promotores de Esperanza, Maiker Housing Partners, Adams County Human Services, Aurora Interfaith, Hunger Free Colorado, Aurora Housing Authority, East Colfax Community Collective (EC3), the Adams County Health Department, Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver, Cherry Creek School District Pathway2Progress, Almost Home Inc., and Aurora Mental Health and Recovery.

Through his time in Congress, Congressman Crow has made lowering costs and affordable housing a top priority, and has made it a priority to connect Coloradans with critical community resources. Earlier this year, Crow held his annual job fair with hundreds of Coloradans in attendance and more than 30 employers from across the Denver Metro. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04), Dean of the Minnesota Congressional Delegation, issued the following statement on Friday in response to President Trump’s illegal cancellation of energy grants for states which voted against him in the 2024 presidential election: 

“President Trump seeks to exact retribution on residents of states that voted against him in the 2024 presidential election by illegally rescinding funding for clean energy projects. It’s illegal, it’s short-sighted, and it once again demonstrates that Trump has no intention of being a leader for all Americans. These projects would have lowered costs for consumers and strengthened the economy for all Americans.

“Despite Trump’s goal of punishing residents of states who voted against him, the impact of his decision to cancel these projects harms far more than Democrats. It directly hurts congressional districts represented by Republicans, including Tom Emmer, by reducing economic opportunities and broadly impacts the very people who President Trump promised he would fight for in Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, Missouri, Nebraska, and Kansas. 

“The bottom line: Trump’s actions are illegal, short-sighted, and demonstrates a deficiency of leadership and maturity that Americans expect and deserve from their president.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)

Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04), Dean of the Minnesota Congressional Delegation, issued the following statement on Tuesday ahead of an anticipated Republican government shutdown at midnight tonight:

“House Democrats have tried to keep government open and lower health care costs, but House Republicans stopped us. Republicans control the entire federal government: The House of Representatives, the Senate, and the Presidency. A two-thirds majority on the Supreme Court was appointed by Republican presidents.

“Congressional Republicans and President Trump have told the American people they have a mandate that allows them to govern on their own without working with Democrats. Republicans have acted on their mandate by enabling President Trump’s chaotic tariffs that are driving up costs for Americans and passing legislation that takes food off the tables of America’s children and seniors. Republicans’ health care crisis strips away health care from 17 million Americans – including 173,000 Minnesotans – and will force millions more Americans, including 12,000 in the Fourth Congressional District to pay higher premiums, higher co-pays, and higher deductibles.

“What will happen when those Americans delay preventive care and treatments they can’t afford because they have no health care? They will needlessly suffer, and tens of thousands of premature deaths will occur each year.

“I do not want a government shutdown. What I want is for Minnesotans and all Americans to have access to high-quality affordable healthcare, be able to have enough money for their groceries, and to live in safe communities. It is unfortunate that my Republican colleagues do not share those priorities. I have been in Washington since Sunday, working together with my Democratic colleagues doing all we can to prevent a shutdown. But without cooperation from Speaker Johnson – who cancelled votes and has refused to call Republicans and Democrats back to Washington – we will not be able to avert a shutdown.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN), and Representative Betty McCollum (D-MN) are pressing Postmaster General Steiner not to relocate retail services from the downtown White Bear Lake Post Office. The current location is convenient, allowing customers to access its services without relying on transportation, and is well situated for local businesses.

“We write to express opposition to the U.S. Postal Service’s proposed relocation of retail services from the post office located at 2223 5th Street in White Bear Lake, Minnesota,” wrote the lawmakers. “Whether it is a small business owner sending time-sensitive documents, an entrepreneur delivering products to a new customer, or simply a person staying connected with family and friends, Minnesotans rely on retail services at their local post office every day.” 

“That is why it is important that these services—including a retail counter, PO boxes, and dropboxes—remain at the White Bear Lake Post Office,” the lawmakers continued. “The current location is centrally situated in downtown White Bear Lake, providing convenient access to residents, local businesses, and visitors alike. This convenient location is not only economically beneficial for the community, but also ensures a strong customer base for the Postal Service which relies on the sale of postage, products, and services to fund its operations.”

The full text of the letter is available here and below:

Dear Mr. Steiner:

We write to express opposition to the U.S. Postal Service’s proposed relocation of retail services from the post office located at 2223 5th Street in White Bear Lake, Minnesota. 

Whether it is a small business owner sending time-sensitive documents, an entrepreneur delivering products to a new customer, or simply a person staying connected with family and friends, Minnesotans rely on retail services at their local post office every day. That is why it is important that these services—including a retail counter, PO boxes, and dropboxes—remain at the White Bear Lake Post Office. 

The current location is centrally situated in downtown White Bear Lake, providing convenient access to residents, local businesses, and visitors alike. This convenient location is not only economically beneficial for the community, but also ensures a strong customer base for the Postal Service which relies on the sale of postage, products, and services to fund its operations. Moving these services could disrupt area businesses and Postal Service revenue, while making it more difficult for customers to get assistance.

We urge you to fully consider these concerns and those raised by local officials, businesses, and residents. In addition, we ask that you consider alternatives that ensure the White Bear Lake Post Office remains a valuable resource for its customers and community. 

Thank you for your attention to this matter. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)

Washington, D.C. — Sending thoughts and prayers is not enough. Congress needs to act to end gun violence. When we visit a federal facility, go to a concert, attend religious service, or go to school, we deserve to know that we’re safe.

The shooting at the Dallas ICE facility yesterday that took the life of a detainee and seriously injured several others was yet another instance of a shooter being able to access a high-powered firearm and deadly ammunition to kill people. It came just weeks after the deadly shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church, and it happened amid a sharp increase in political violence in the United States.

Why are we treating these weapons of destruction with more dignity and respect than the people whose lives are on the line every single day? I refuse to be silent. Congress must act on common-sense solutions to end gun violence.

The epidemic of gun violence is ripping our communities apart and tearing at the soul of our nation. The common denominator is easy access to weapons designed to kill people. I have voted time and again to ban assault weapons, impose background checks, and limit access to firearms. It is past time to act and not acting is deadly.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum introduced the Peace Corps Congressional Gold Medal Act on Tuesday, coinciding with the 64^th anniversary of President John F. Kennedy’s signing of the Peace Corps Act. The legislation, which is co-led by Congressman John H. Rutherford (R-FL), would bestow the highest civilian award given by the United States Congress to over 250,000 Americans who’ve volunteered for the Peace Corps since its inception. 

“Peace Corps volunteers have proudly represented every corner of the United States in service to our national interests and global development,” said Congresswoman McCollum, the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. “It is because of the stellar work and diplomatic excellence of Peace Corps volunteers that I have a proud legacy of hiring returned Peace Corps volunteers to serve the people of Minnesota’s Fourth District.

“At a time when America’s soft power is under question by our allies and adversaries alike, it is critical that we publicly honor the extraordinary contributions of our returned peace corps volunteers,” added Rep. McCollum. “I’m proud to carry this bipartisan legislation with Congressman Rutherford.” 

“For over six decades, the Peace Corps has exemplified America’s commitment to service and diplomacy across the globe,” said Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05). “Their dedication reflects the very best of our nation. It is an honor to recognize the nearly 250,000 volunteers and the lasting legacy of the Peace Corps as it inspires future generations to serve.”

“As America prepares for its 250^th anniversary, it is time we recognize America’s role in establishing one of the world’s greatest global peace and friendship-building efforts. For the last 64 years, our national story has included the selfless service and countless accomplishments of nearly a quarter-million Peace Corps Volunteers,” said National Peace Corps Association President and CEO Dan Baker. “We are grateful to Representatives McCollum and Rutherford for their leadership on this legislation, and we ask all members of the House to join them as co-sponsors, so this recognition can coincide with the 65th anniversary of the Peace Corps in 2026.”

Nearly 250,000 Americans have served in more than 140 countries since the foundation of the Peace Corps in 1961. Today, approximately 3,000 U.S. citizens represent our country as Peace Corps volunteers in nearly 60 nations. Peace Corps has hundreds of educational partnerships with colleges and universities across 47 states, and in Guam, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia. As the United States prepares for its semiquincentennial, 2026 will also mark the 65^thanniversary of the Peace Corps. As many of the early volunteers are aging, this is the perfect moment to recognize their service.

Original co-sponsors of The Peace Corps Congressional Gold Medal Act include: Returned Peace Corps Volunteer Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA), Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI), and Rep. Greg Landsman (D-OH).

Click here to view the text and summary of the legislation.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Garamendi – Representing California’s 3rd Congressional District

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman John Garamendi (CA-08), a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, released the following statement after President Trump and Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought announced the cancellation of $7.5 billion in funding for 223 clean energy projects, including over 70 projects in California:

“Donald Trump and Russ Vought are blatantly stealing from California. This political attack is nothing more than retaliation for their own shutdown, which will send Californians’ energy bills skyrocketing.”

“I was notified late Wednesday of the $7.5 billion cancellation in energy projects by the Department of Energy, which claimed these projects ‘did not adequately advance the nation’s energy needs, were not economically viable, and would not provide a positive return on taxpayer dollars.’ The problem is that the DOE provided zero analysis supporting these claims. These projects went through a highly competitive approval process and would have strengthened America’s energy security while delivering critical public health benefits for our country. Multiple impacted projects were within the University of California system, including UC Davis research on concentrated solar power systems to improve efficiency and lower costs. The only result of Trump’s cuts is higher energy costs and punishment for our students and researchers.

“The Department of Energy, along with the entire federal government, has been captured by President Trump’s vile politics—politics that have nothing to do with serving the American people. Every American, Democrat and Republican alike, should be gravely disturbed. Our government is being weaponized by petty and dangerous people who wield power only to punish their political opponents. This cancellation is nothing more than a desperate act of retribution against Democrats standing up for working families—all because President Trump and Republicans decided that giving tax cuts to billionaires is more important than lowering costs for ordinary Americans.

“When Americans see both their health care and energy costs skyrocket, they should remember who is responsible: Donald Trump and the Republican Party. The media must hold Trump accountable and make it clear who is to blame, because the American people deserve the truth.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative James E (Jim) Clyburn (6th District of South Carolina)

COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA — Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) released the following statement on the shootings at South Carolina State University on Saturday, October 4:

“I offer my sincere condolences and heartfelt empathies to the victims of the shootings that took place at South Carolina State University. As a ‘loyal son’ and proud alumnus of SCSU, this incident is a horrific tragedy to many of us who celebrated homecoming this weekend.

“Homecoming is about students, their friends and families, none of whom should be subjected to such senseless acts. The epidemic of gun violence exacts far too high a toll on our communities – and we experienced it happening right here in South Carolina and Montgomery, Alabama this past weekend.

“None of the victims, or currently identified perpetrators, are South Carolina State students.  But these shootings call into question “open carry” laws that make the lives of college administrators difficult and put the lives of innocents at risk.

“But we know something fundamental needs to change to protect South Carolinians from these kinds of tragedies.  The scourge of violence must end, and it is incumbent upon all of us to do what is right to safeguard our communities.”

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