Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Suzanne Bonamici (1st District Oregon)
Washington, D.C.– Oregon’s U.S. Senate and House members this week submitted for a congressional time capsule to celebrate America’s 250th birthday multiple items that sample from the state’s natural treasures, history, culture, sports, music and more.
Among the items included in the Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule to be sealed at the Capitol Visitor Center and opened on July 4, 2276 are the following:
A ballot and envelope, to celebrate Oregon’s status as America’s first vote-by-mail state.
Printed images of iconic Oregon landscapes.
An illustration depicting Oregon’s agriculture.
A photo of the late Avel Gordly, the first African-American woman elected to Oregon’s state Senate.
Sheet music and lyrics of songs about Oregon (“Eugene” by Dolly Parton, “Portland, Oregon, You’re My Home” by Carrie Brownstein & Fred Armisen, and “Coming Home (Oregon)” by Matt Kearney).
A news article about the Portland Fire. which is now playing its first season in the WNBA.
A sunstone, the state gemstone that’s mined only in eastern Oregon.
A pair of ‘Crater Lake’ patterned socks from Pendleton Woolen Mills, established in 1909.
“Although there may have been skeptics who feared that asking several Oregonians to agree on time capsule items might resemble a Parks and Rec episode, our state’s diversity, beauty and innovative spirit made this task a labor of love,” said U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden. “What my colleagues and I have submitted shows why Oregon is such a special place to live, work and raise a family.”
“Oregon’s contributions to the Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule showcase our innovation, natural splendor, and the people who make our state such a remarkable place to call home,” said U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley. “We are honored to contribute to a collection that will help future generations understand who we were and what we aspired to become.”
“Knowing Oregon’s history is critical to shaping our future, and preserving our state in this moment is valuable,” said Rep. Suzanne Bonamici. “Oregon’s contribution to the congressional time capsule will give future Oregonians and Americans a glimpse into our state as we see it. I’m grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with the Oregon delegation on this meaningful project.”
“The items we selected for this time capsule reflect the values that define Oregon — from our pioneering vote-by-mail system and world class natural landscapes to the workers, farmers, artists, and leaders who have shaped our communities” said Rep. Val Hoyle. “I’m proud future generations will have the opportunity to see how Oregonians contributed to our nation and helped build a more resilient and democratic future.”
“One day, someone will open this time capsule and get a glimpse of who we were in 2026,” said Rep. Andrea Salinas. “I hope they’ll see a state that took pride in its natural beauty, celebrated its culture, valued its farmers and workers, and believed deeply in democracy. From a vote-by-mail ballot to a sunstone from Eastern Oregon, these items reflect the people and places that make our state unique. They tell the story of an Oregon that is independent-minded, welcoming, and always looking toward the future.”
“Senator Gordly’s leadership helped pave the way for future generations of leaders in public service,” said Rep. Janelle Bynum. “She stood firm on the principles of educating and caring for Oregon’s children and she stood for transparency and accountability in government. As the first Black woman elected to the Oregon State Senate, she opened doors for countless Oregonians and helped build a more inclusive future for our state. In a time when Black women’s contributions and accomplishments in service to America are being overlooked, recognizing Sen. Gordly stands as a testament to strength, resilience, and independence. These are not just her values, but they are Oregon values. As Oregon’s first Black woman elected to Congress, I am proud to help ensure her legacy is preserved as part of our nation’s 250th anniversary.”
“When future generations open this time capsule, I want them to see Oregon in full: its breadth, its beauty, and its spirit of innovation. This is a state that has never waited for permission to do something great. From vote-by-mail to Portland being a mecca for women’s sports, including our brand-new WNBA team, the items in this time capsule are reflective of the Oregon Way. I am proud of our state’s past, present and the bold future we are building together,” said Rep. Maxine Dexter.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Robert Aderholt announced the approval of an Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) grant of $1,000,000 to the City of Dora, AL.
The ARC grant will be used to build a new 250,000-gallon elevated water storage tank and 1,000 linear feet of water main to enable development at Heritage Landing. This project will open the site for industrial, commercial, or retail developments. Heritage Landing is a 50-acre development site along Interstate 22 Exit 78.
“This investment will create long-term prosperity and support economic and workforce development for the region by opening up eleven construction ready development sites,” said Congressman Aderholt. “As the existing water system prohibits future development, this ARC grant is a step towards bringing new businesses to Dora and the surrounding communities.”
In addition to ARC funds, local sources are providing $1,000,000 bringing the project total to $2,000,000.
The Appalachian Regional Commission is an economic development partnership of the federal government and 13 state governments focused on strengthening economic growth and opportunity across the Appalachian region.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)
Washington, D.C. – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) joined Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) in announcing the introduction of the Don’t Settle for Corruption Act. That bill would require Congressional approval before the Department of Justice (DOJ) can spend taxpayer dollars on any legal settlement resolving a case involving the President, the President’s immediate family, or any business entity they own or control.
In addition to the President’s $1.776 billion “Anti-Weaponization Fund,” which was set up to compensate victims of alleged lawfare, including his allies and January 6th insurrectionists, the settlement agreement in Trump v. IRS included an addendum that would bar the government from investigating tax returns filed by the Trump family and their companies. The Don’t Settle for Corruption Act would block DOJ’s controversial “get out of jail free card” from moving forward without explicit authorization from Congress.
“The Department of Justice’s senseless settlement with President Trump aimed to use taxpayer dollars to pay off people who beat police officers, stormed our Capitol, and attacked our democracy on January 6, while continuing to shield the President, his sons, and his company from tax audits,” said Rep. Panetta. “I’m proud to support this legislation to ensure that any settlement involving a President receives careful Congressional scrutiny and approval before taxpayer dollars are spent or special immunity protections are granted. Congress must uphold its oversight responsibilities and put in place safeguards that prevent this type of corruption from occurring under any administration.”
“Donald Trump has been trying to use our federal government as his personal ATM—and is now strong-arming officials to give him a deal that would protect himself and his family from ever having to pay the taxes they owe,” said Rep. Larson. “Whether it’s billion-dollar corporations screwing over their customers or billionaire presidents trying to make a quick buck off the American people, we cannot stand by. My Don’t Settle for Corruption Act would stop this dirty scheme to line the pockets of the President and his MAGA allies for good and require my colleagues to go on the record if they truly support this unprecedented theft of taxpayer dollars.”
In January, President Trump filed this unprecedented lawsuit against the IRS, demanding $10 billion in damages for alleged mishandling of tax data. Never in the history of the United States has a sitting President sought a monetary settlement from the government he leads, let alone one totaling many billions of dollars in taxpayer funds.
After initially announcing a $1.8 billion settlement, including payoffs to the President’s family members, January 6th insurrectionists, and other allies, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche testified before Congress that the settlement fund was no longer moving forward, a claim later disputed by President Trump. While the fund has been temporarily blocked in federal court, DOJ continues to pursue the “get out of jail free” addendum to the settlement that would effectively shield Donald Trump from ever having to pay the taxes he owes.
Specifically, the Don’t Settle for Corruption Act would
Safeguard transparency, by requiring the Department of Justice to notify Congress of any settlement, whether it’s financial or otherwise, that stands to benefit a sitting or former President, their family, or any business they control.
Ensure accountability, giving Congress 60 days to explicitly approve these settlements. Otherwise, they would be blocked from moving forward in any form.
In addition to Rep. Panetta, the bill is also cosponsored by Reps. Mike Thompson (CA-04), Ro Khanna (CA-17), André Carson (IN-07), Judy Chu (CA-28), Gil Cisneros (CA-31), Danny Davis (IL-07), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Sam Liccardo (CA-16), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Mark Pocan (WI-02), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).
The Don’t Settle for Corruption Act is endorsed by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), Public Citizen, Project on Government Oversight (POGO), and Transparency International.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)
(Kansas City, MO) – On Monday, June 15th, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) visited Footprints, Inc.’s Heroes Home Gate Campus and formally presented a ceremonial check recognizing the $850,000 federal investment he secured to expand the transitional housing program serving homeless veterans in the Kansas City region.
The funding will support the expansion of Heroes Home Gate Campus, allowing Footprints, Inc. to increase its capacity to provide safe housing, supportive services, and career development opportunities for veterans working to rebuild their lives after experiencing homelessness.
“After serving our country in uniform, no veteran should have to wonder where they will sleep at night,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Heroes Home Gate Campus is doing the critical work of helping veterans reconnect with their families, improve their physical and mental health, and achieve long-term housing stability. This investment reflects our commitment to ensuring that those who defended our nation have access to the resources, support, and opportunities they deserve.”
The expanded facility will provide additional space and programming designed to help veterans successfully transition to independent living. Through housing assistance, workforce development, counseling, and other supportive services, the facility helps veterans overcome barriers and build a foundation for lasting success.
“At Heroes Home Gate, we are committed to helping veterans move from crisis and uncertainty to stability, purpose, and independent living,” said Joel Bailey,Executive Director. “Through a holistic approach that goes far beyond providing housing, we provide veterans with the resources, skills, support, and opportunities needed to achieve long-term success. From case management and life skills development, to wellness programs, recreational activities, and community engagement, every aspect of our program is designed to foster healing, connection, and personal growth. We believe that true transformation happens when veterans not only have a safe place to live, but also a supportive community where they can rebuild confidence, rediscover purpose, and create a foundation for a brighter future. Our greatest purpose and success is seeing veterans regain independence, achieve their goals, and thrive in the community they served to protect.”
During the visit, Representative Cleaver toured the campus alongside Footprints, Inc. leadership and staff, learned more about the organization’s latest work, and discussed the impact the federal funding will have on veterans throughout the region.
“Organizations like Footprints, Inc. demonstrate what is possible when communities invest in people. Federal funding should make a tangible difference in people’s lives, and this project is a perfect example of how strategic investments can strengthen our communities while honoring and upholding the dignity of those most vulnerable,” said Congressman Cleaver.
The $850,000 investment was secured through the Community Project Funding process and is part of Representative Cleaver’s ongoing efforts to bring federal resources back to the Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District to support housing, economic opportunity, and services for vulnerable populations. Since Fiscal Year 2022, Congressman Cleaver hassecurednearly$109,000,000 in federal investments for local projects throughout the Fifth Congressional District.
Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)
WASHINGTON, DC– This week, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Members of Maryland’s Congressional Delegation and Governor Wes Moore held a meeting at the United States Capitol to discuss their work on a range of issues important to Marylanders, including infrastructure, health care, affordability, economic opportunity, the Chesapeake Bay, and more. Video of the members’ press availability following the meeting is available here.
“Marylanders are struggling in Trump’s failing economy, and they’re looking to their state and federal leaders for help as the Administration continues to impose drastic cuts to affordable health care, food assistance, and other critical services. That is why I joined my colleagues in the Maryland Congressional Delegation, Governor Wes Moore, and state leaders yesterday to discuss strategies to address these top priorities for our state’s working families. From tackling the affordability crisis to protecting key investments in our state, we remain committed to providing real solutions and delivering real results at this critical moment for Maryland,” said Congressman Steny Hoyer (MD-05).
“Maryland’s federal delegation is strong, and together we are showing up as a united front to ensure no Marylander is left behind. Yesterday’s meeting was a testament to what we can get done when we work together on behalf of communities across our state. We are advancing solutions to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge safely, quickly, and cost-effectively; protect SNAP benefits so families can put food on the table; strengthen Medicaid implementation to ensure health care is accessible and affordable; invest in our lighthouse industries to build a more competitive economy and expand access to work, wages, and wealth; and protect our environment so Maryland’s natural resources are secure for generations to come,” said Governor Wes Moore.
“Team Maryland’s top priority is delivering for our communities, and yesterday’s meeting was an opportunity to discuss the ways that we continue to work together for our great state. Even as this Administration attempts to dismantle critical programs for working families and attacks our communities, we will not stop fighting to ensure Marylanders have the health care, economic opportunity, and infrastructure they deserve to thrive,” said Senator Van Hollen (D-MD).
“It’s no joke when I say Team Maryland is one of the strongest state delegation’s in the country. We remain united against attacks on our civil servants, including scientists and researchers at the FDA and NIH, we are fighting back to ensure Marylanders can get food on the table and the health care they need despite this Administration’s slashing of SNAP, Medicaid, and Medicare, and we are continuing to invest in our communities so Maryland’s economy can thrive,” said Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD).
“It was a productive meeting with Governor Moore and my fellow members of Maryland’s congressional delegation,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07). “It was a great opportunity to discuss our shared priorities, from advancing public transportation to resolving the ongoing affordability crisis and collaborate on how we can best improve life for all Marylanders. I am proud to be a part of a Team Maryland that will never stop fighting to on behalf of working families across our state.”
“While President Trump fumbles his disastrous and illegal war of choice in Iran, prosecutes his perceived political enemies and sends masked federal agents into our communities, Team Maryland is fighting to defend our freedom and to make progress for our communities. Our delegation is hanging tough and working to lower food, gas and housing costs, to strengthen our infrastructure, to stand up for our dedicated federal workers and to defend our democracy against the authoritarians and oligarchs of our time,” said Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08).
“Marylanders expect us to fight for the jobs, research institutions, and basic freedoms that help families thrive, and that’s exactly what our federal delegation is doing. I’m proud to stand alongside Senators Alsobrooks, Van Hollen and my House colleagues as we push back against the Administration’s illegal, draconian, deeply misguided, and harmful attacks on high-performing federal programs in my district and across the State. I commend Governor Moore’s leadership in keeping Maryland focused on helping families through these tough times. When Maryland’s workers, scientists, and communities are under threat, we work together to help our neighbors throughout the Free State,” said Congressman Glenn Ivey (MD-04).
“Team Maryland has always been a force in Washington thanks to the persistent leadership and tenacity of great legislators and champions, like Senator Mikulski, Senator Cardin, Congressman Cummings, Leader Hoyer, and so many others. As the actions of the Trump Administration disproportionately and acutely impacted our state, collaboration and teamwork are all the more important. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Governor Moore and all of our state and local partners to deliver for Maryland families back home,” said Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth (MD-03).
“In Maryland, we leave no one behind. The challenges facing America are unfolding right here in Maryland, where the rising cost of living—driven by the Administration’s failed economic policies—is hurting families, farmers, and small businesses. I’m committed to a Costs Down, Opportunity Up affordability agenda, and under Governor Moore’s leadership, together with the full strength of Maryland’s Congressional Delegation, we can build an economy that works for everyone—not just those at the top,” said Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (MD-06).
“Maryland has always been at its best when we work together. Yesterday’s meeting was an important opportunity to coordinate our efforts and ensure Team Maryland is speaking with one voice on the issues that matter most, from ensuring the Key Bridge is rebuilt as quickly as possible, to protecting the federal workers and facilities who call our state home. I look forward to continuing the partnerships needed to build a stronger Maryland for all,” said Congressman Johnny Olszewski (MD-02).
Congressman Harris (MD-01) additionally attended the meeting.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23)
“Hundreds of thousands of families who followed the law, passed multiple criminal background checks, earned work permits, and paid taxes will be torn apart, thrown in ICE jails, or sent back to a nation overrun by criminal gangs who murder and kidnap at will,” said Wasserman Schultz. “This fight is not over. When I return to Washington next week, I’ll introduce the TPS Review Act to restore checks and balances on the President’s handling of TPS, because nobody is above the law.”
Sunrise, FL – Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) convened local immigration advocates to condemn the Supreme Court’s ruling to deny Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Haitians in Trump v. Miot, and unveiled her forthcoming bill the TPS Review Act, to reassert judicial and Congressional review of the executive branch’s decisions about TPS.
The crux of the Supreme Court’s decision in Trump v. Miot was that regardless of whether the Administration’s termination of TPS for Haiti and Syria was lawful, courts do not have the ability to assess the legality of the decision to revoke TPS.
“Hundreds of thousands of families who followed the law, passed multiple criminal background checks, earned work permits, and paid taxes will be torn apart, thrown in ICE jails, or sent back to a nation overrun by criminal gangs who murder and kidnap at will,” said Wasserman Schultz. “This fight is not over. When I return to Washington next week, I’ll introduce the TPS Review Act to restore checks and balances on the President’s handling of TPS, because nobody is above the law.”
The TPS Review Act would amend the Temporary Protected Status statute to institute judicial review, establish a cause of action for TPS recipients and their representatives to sue for relief in court, and allow Congress to reverse a TPS termination by simple majority vote under the Congressional Review Act.
This legislation will also require a standardized, documented process for the Executive Branch to review country conditions before TPS can be revoked, creating a paper trail for litigation, and place the burden of evidence on the Government to prove that a challenged TPS decision complies with these requirements.
Under this bill, TPS recipients would maintain their status and work permits automatically and indefinitely while a termination is litigated in court, eliminating the uncertainty that has harmed Florida businesses and consumers over the last year.
Wasserman Schultz was joined at the press conference by President and CEO of LifeNet4Families Denise Brown and Americans for Immigrant Justice Detention Attorney Sandra Cherfrere.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)
Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02)introduced legislation to prohibit the Secretary of Agriculture from closing any U.S. Forest Service Research and Development facility, including Experimental Forests, unless Congress expressly authorizes the closure.
The legislation comes amid deep concern over the Department of Agriculture and U.S. Forest Service reorganization plan, which initially slated New Hampshire’s Bartlett Experimental Forest for closure and placed Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest under review. Following extensive advocacy from the New Hampshire delegation, Hubbard Brook was retained while Bartlett remains under evaluation for possible closure.
“Our nation’s public forests provide us with clean air and water, allow for outdoor recreation, and are part of our way of life in New Hampshire,” said Congressman Pappas. “The Protecting America’s Forest Act would stop the administration’s attempt to reorganize the U.S. Forest Service which oversees our public lands and world-class research program. I’m glad to be leading this legislation with Congresswoman Goodlander, and I’ll continue to fight overreach by the administration and protect our great outdoors.”
“This bill is very simple,” said Congresswoman Goodlander. “No administration should be able to shutter world-class facilities that support our entire forest economy without the communities that rely on them getting a say. Granite Staters depend on these incredible forests to sustain good-paying forest economy jobs, protect our air and water, and keep the northern forests in our country healthy for generations to come.”
In New Hampshire, Bartlett and Hubbard Brook are nationally recognized research assets that help foresters, landowners, scientists, and policymakers understand and manage northern forests. These facilities serve as the backbone of science-based forest management, and provide critical information to support conservation, climate resilience, wildfire preparedness, and the forest products sector across the country.
In April, Pappas and Goodlander joined 60 of their colleaguesin a letteropposing the proposed reorganization of the Forest Service and calling for the effort to be halted. The members warned that the proposal would undermine the agency’s world-class research program, worsen staffing and expertise losses, and put public lands and nearby communities at risk.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Thompson Representing the 5th District of CALIFORNIA
THOMPSON VOTED “YES” ON THE HISTORIC BIPARTISAN BILL TO EXPAND HOUSING ACROSS THE U.S.
Washington, D.C. – Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) voted “yes” to pass the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act (H.R. 6644), a landmark bill that that will help increase the supply of affordable housing, streamline the process of building more homes, and modernize outdated programs to help create more pathways to homeownership and bring much-needed relief to renters. The bill passed both chambers of Congress with bipartisan support, but now faces opposition from the President who canceledthe signing ceremony this morning.
“The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act will help us build more housing, lower mortgage and rental costs, and expand home ownership. The President should sign it into law now,” said Thompson. “This is a huge first step in tackling our housing crisis in the United States and especially in California. I was proud to support this historic bipartisan legislation and I will continue fight to get this signed into law because Americans deserve relief.”
BACKGROUND
The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is the result of extensive negotiations across the aisle and the Capitol and is the most significanthousing package in a generation. H.R. 6644 includes dozens of bipartisan provisions to build new housing, lower mortgage and rental costs, expand homeownership, modernize federal housing programs, prioritize homebuyers and renters over corporate landlords, and support community bankers that finance affordable housing development and mortgages.
Specifically, the bill does the following:
Housing Supply and Development
Encourages office-to-housing and commercial-to-residential conversions.
Creates grant programs to help local governments build more housing.
Streamlines environmental and permitting reviews for certain housing projects.
Allows certain federal grants to support affordable housing construction directly.
Continues federal rental assistance for residents of certain rural affordable housing properties, helping preserve affordability and housing stability in rural communities.
Helps low- and moderate-income communities recover from major disasters.
Manufactured and Modular Housing
Encourages more factory-built housing production.
Directs the federal Housing and Urban Development agency to review barriers to modular housing financing and construction.
Increases federal loan limits for manufactured housing.
Provides grants to manufactured housing communities, like mobile home parks, to preserve affordability, address infrastructure needs, and expand homeownership opportunities.
Homeownership and Mortgage Access
Creates a federal pilot program for small-dollar mortgages under $100,000 to help lower-income buyers access financing.
Expands support for community banks, credit unions, CDFIs, and rural financial institutions that provide mortgage lending and affordable housing financing.
Allows banks to put more money into affordable housing construction and preservation projects before hitting their federal investment limit.
Renter and Tenant Protections
Restricts large corporations that own more than 350 single-family homes from purchasing additional single-family homes, while still allowing some build-to-rent activity.
Creates a national renter resource center, including a complaint hotline and public website, for disputes involving large institutional landlords.
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Congressman Mike Thompson is proud to represent California’s 4th Congressional District, which includes all or part of Lake, Napa, Solano, Sonoma and Yolo Counties. He is a senior member of the House Committee on Ways and Means. Rep. Thompson is Chairman of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. He is also Co-Chair of the bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Wine Caucus and a member of the fiscally-responsible Blue Dog Coalition.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Barry Loudermilk (R-GA)
Washington, D.C. (June 23, 2026) | Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA) issued the following statement following passage of H.R. 6644 – the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.
“Today, I voted to support safe, accessible, and affordable housing, which is vital to strengthening our communities and ensuring that hardworking Americans have a chance to achieve the American Dream. Across the country, families continue to face rising housing costs, limited supply, and unnecessary barriers that make it harder to become a homeowner.
“Reducing burdensome regulations, increasing housing supply, and improving federal housing programs will better serve American families, creating more opportunities for homeownership and economic stability. Congress must continue advancing policies that promote growth, opportunity, and a stronger future for families across our nation.”
21st Century ROAD to Housing Act Includes:
Efforts to increase the supply of affordable housing and address the nation’s housing shortage.
Reduction of unnecessary regulatory barriers which make housing development more costly.
Modernizing federal housing programs to better meet the needs of communities and families.
Supporting policies that encourage responsible housing construction and development.
Improving access to homeownership opportunities, including first-time buyers.
Promoting greater transparency and accountability within federal housing programs.
Strengthening partnerships between federal, state, and local stakeholders.
Commonsense reforms to help lower housing costs and expand housing availability.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)
Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on CNN’s The Situation Room, where he emphasized that while Donald Trump and Republicans continue to fight each other instead of making life better for the American people, Democrats remain committed to lowering the high cost of living and cleaning up corruption.
WOLF BLITZER: Joining us now is the top Democrat in the House of Representatives, the Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York. Leader Jeffries, thanks so much for joining us. There’s a lot I want to talk to you about, but this vessel strike marks the first reported since the U.S. and Iran agreed last week to work toward a peace deal. Have you been briefed on this attack and, more broadly, where will the Iran talks stand right now?
LEADER JEFFRIES: Good morning, Wolf, great to be with you. Unfortunately, the Trump administration has explicitly declined to brief Members of Congress about the situation over in the Middle East, perhaps because they understand it’s not under control. In fact, it’s been a disaster for the American people. Donald Trump and Republicans launched a reckless and costly war of choice that has left America in a weaker position relative to Iran than we were in prior to this war being launched. And, of course, gas prices remain incredibly high in an environment where the American people are already suffocating from the failed Trump economy and the fact that costs haven’t gone down, as Republicans promised would happen on day one, costs have gone up.
WOLF BLITZER: The House Speaker Mike Johnson and President Trump, they met for—what—more than three hours at the White House yesterday, after which the Speaker said he would send the bipartisan housing bill that passed overwhelmingly to the President’s desk to be signed or become law after 10 days. Do you have any insight at all, Leader, into where that legislation currently stands? As I said, it was passed overwhelmingly in the House and the Senate and is now awaiting the President’s signature to sign it into law.
LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, the cost of living in the United States of America [is] out of control and Congress took a bipartisan step forward, led by Congresswoman Maxine Waters and Senator Elizabeth Warren, as well as French Hill, the Republican Chair of the Financial Services Committee, to get something meaningful done so we could actually build housing in America that everyday Americans can afford. But Donald Trump, once again, threw a temper tantrum, unfortunately, and decided that rather than actually deal with the affordability crisis—which is not a hoax in the United States of America notwithstanding what Donald Trump has said, it’s actually very real—that he wants to try to jam his voter suppression legislation down the throats of the American people. We, of course, will continue to reject that effort, but at the same period of time come together around common sense bills like this affordability bill connected to the housing crisis to try to improve the lives of the American people. Hopefully, what we’ll now see over the next few days is that either the bill will be signed into law or, after 10 days, will automatically become law.
WOLF BLITZER: What do you think will happen?
LEADER JEFFRIES: Listen, I think one way or the other, this bill is going to become law. And we’ve made that clear from the very beginning. We’re not bending, we’re not breaking, we’re not changing our position as it relates to our opposition to Donald Trump’s voter suppression bill. And at the end of the day, as often is the case, once the temper tantrum ends, Donald Trump backs down.
WOLF BLITZER: I want to also get to the recent elections in your home state of New York. Two incumbent Democrats, two Democrats you know well and you supported them, lost their primaries to progressive challengers endorsed by the New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Here’s how one swing state Democrat responded to all that. I’m going to get your reaction, but listen to this.
RECORDING OF SEN. ELISSA SLOTKIN: We have literally found ourselves in a situation where we just don’t have people who understand the moment and understand what leadership means.
RECORDING OF STEPHEN A. SMITH: When you talk about new leadership, well, Hakeem Jeffries is the Democratic Leader in the House and Chuck Schumer is the Democratic Leader in the Senate. When you talk about new leadership, that would mean they’re out in favor of somebody else. Is that what you’re saying?
RECORDING OF SEN. ELISSA SLOTKIN: I’m saying, if people can’t understand that the game has changed, I mean, this is you, you’re the sports guy. If people can’t understand that the game has fundamentally changed, and they can’t adapt, then they need to let others lead.
WOLF BLITZER: So what do you say to Slotkin about that? Are you the right person to continue to lead the Democrats in the House? And if, in fact, the Democrats become the majority in the House, are you ready? Do you think you’re likely to be elected Speaker?
LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, listen, what’s in front of us right now is we’ve got to do everything to take back control of the House of Representatives. That’s actually the moment that we’re in, and House Democrats have been very clear that we are going to continue to relentlessly focus on making our case to the American people, drive down the high cost of living, fix our broken healthcare system and clean up corruption. I have no idea what Elissa Slotkin was talking about there. Of course, any Democratic Leader is going to continue to stand with their colleagues. And I’m proud of the effort that was put in by both Congressman Adriano Espaillat, as well as Congressman Dan Goldman, two Members of the Congressional Progressive Caucus. At the same period of time, I think that what happens in a handful of primaries in one of the bluest cities in the country is not in any way indicative of what needs to happen in November, where we need to reelect every single frontline Member, common sense Democrats, authentically committed to making life better for the American people, opposing these extreme Republicans who have been nothing but a reckless rubber stamp for Donald Trump’s agenda. And at the same period of time, make sure that we flip red seats blue, including in New York-17, where we have a combat veteran, incredibly patriotic American Cait Conley, who came out of a primary on Tuesday as well and is an incredibly strong candidate. She will defeat Mike Lawler in New York in November.
WOLF BLITZER: I want you to listen and watch. I don’t know if you saw it, what Republican Congressman James Comer said about this topic just a few moments ago. Listen to this.
RECORDING OF REP. JAMES COMER: I think Democrats had a very bad week. I believe that when you’re Hakeem Jeffries, and you’re trying to be the next Speaker of the House, and you lose three elections in your hometown, that’s a pretty big slap in the face. And I always—come from Kentucky and always adhere to the attitude that you look at a candidate by how well they do in their hometown, by their friends and neighbors. And I think Hakeem Jeffries’ friends and neighbors gave him a big middle finger. And look, that’s the direction of the Democrat Party. They are going further and further to the left to the point where they are full-blown, card-carrying socialists. And I don’t think the American people want to elect that. And, I’m more confident than ever that the House will remain Republican.
WOLF BLITZER: How do you respond to Comer, Leader?
LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, I understand that Republicans are going to try to distract and change the subject. This is the same group of people, they promised to lower costs on day one, costs haven’t gone down because of the Trump tariffs. Costs have gone up. Increased costs on everyday Americans by thousands of dollars per year. They promised to love and cherish Medicaid and then turned around and enacted the largest cut to Medicaid in American history, ripping healthcare away from millions of Americans. And hospitals, nursing homes and community-based health centers are closing because of the Republicans’ One Big Ugly Bill in places like Kentucky. At the same period of time, it was Donald Trump and Republicans who promised not to start wars in the Middle East, but to stop them and then turned around and got us involved in this reckless and costly war of choice. At the end of the day, Republican policies have been a disaster. And even though I understand that Comer and others want to try to distract the American people, what you have right now is that Donald Trump, the President, is fighting with Senate Republicans. Literally, it was a cage match in the United States Senate when he met with them. Senate Republicans are fighting with House Republicans, and House Republicans are fighting with each other, which is why they couldn’t move any meaningful legislation on the Floor this week, cancelled votes and got out of town yesterday before sundown.
WOLF BLITZER: You had a chance to speak with the New York City Mayor Mamdani on Wednesday, is that right?
LEADER JEFFRIES: Yeah, Mayor Mamdani and I had a very good conversation. It was forward-looking, you know, it was authentic, it was candid. And I think we both have taken the position that there are going to be times where we may, as a congressional delegation, agree to strongly disagree with each other on endorsements. But at the same period of time, at all times, be committed to actually making life better and more affordable for the people in New York City and beyond. And in this moment of great extremism, it’s an all-hands-on-deck approach. And so we’ve got to come together, city, state and federal governmental officials, in order to continue to do our best to get the job done. And that’s sort of a commitment that I believe we all share as we move forward at this time.
WOLF BLITZER: Are you confident, Leader Jeffries, that your vision, your vision with Mamdani, your visions for the Democratic Party going forward, do they align? Or do you worry that he could push out more of your own Democratic Party Members?
LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, it’s important to remember that primaries are a way of life in the House of Representatives. We stand for election every two years. We have a two-year employment contract. You’ve got to go back, appropriately so, to your voters, make your case. And, in a handful of instances, voters will decide to go in a different direction. But at the end of the day, there are about 215 of us, 215 in the House Democratic Caucus, representing districts of all types throughout the United States of America, but we’re committed to making sure that we actually address the things that matter to the American people so when folks work hard and play by the rules, they can live an affordable life, a good life and a middle-class, comfortable life, as opposed to being suffocated right now with this failed economy.
WOLF BLITZER: Alright, the House Minority Leader, the Democratic Leader, Hakeem Jeffries. Thanks so much for spending a few moments with us. We really appreciate it.