Energy & Environment
I had an absolutely fabulous week back home in the 9th Congressional District! I love getting to be out and about in our community, whether I am visiting a school, touring a non-profit organization, or meeting with local elected officials.
This week, I talk about the reparations bill, H.R. 40, the latest on the American Rescue Plan, and the situation in Texas this past week.
In my weekly video update for my constituents, I discuss the anniversary of the violent January 6th insurrection. I also discuss the prospects for voting rights legislation in the Senate and the need to get rid of the filibuster. I also share how to apply for assistance with your energy bills via @Cook County Government and the federal LIHEAP program.
On Monday, President Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States and, almost immediately, issued a slew of executive orders that attack our fundamental freedoms.
This week, I update you on the latest actions of the Biden Administration, and talk about some of the concerns we have within Congress of one of our own members.
Last week, we experienced four of the hottest days ever recorded on earth. Heat is the number one weather-related killer in the world, and it is a direct threat to our children and our planet. Last Congress, we passed the Inflation Reduction Act, which is the largest ever federal investment in our climate, but we must do more to help ensure a habitable planet for our children.
Our greatest security threats have no military solutions, and it is time our budget reflects that. Last week, I voted against the final passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This bill, that originally came out of committee with pay raises for our service members and civilian federal employees, turned into a MAGA manifesto with the addition of a series of extremist Republican amendments.
Last week, House Republicans continued to push forth their agenda that will harm everyday Americans. The Republican Study Committee, which is composed of over 170 House Republicans, put forward their plan to strip away the Social Security benefits that Americans have worked so hard to earn. This is theft and we cannot stand for it; Americans deserve to retire with dignity and respect.
An economic disaster has been averted thanks to President Biden and his negotiating team, who did the best they could in the midst of a hostage situation. Thanks to the president’s leadership, the Republicans were unable to make cuts to crucial programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. President Biden was able to protect his landmark pieces of legislation, the Inflation Reduction Act, including the bill's historic climate provisions, the Infrastructure Law, and the Chips and Science Act.