March 29, 2025
This week, President Trump issued an Executive Order that is an assault on American democracy. The order illegally directs the Election Assistance Commission to make sweeping changes to U.S. elections that will restrict access to the ballot box.
President Trump does not care about election integrity. He refused to accept his loss in the 2020 election and incited a violent attack on the U.S. Capitol. His actions are immoral and illegal, and they threaten to end American democracy as we know it.
As the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration—which oversees federal elections—I will not back down in the fight to keep our elections free and fair for all Americans. Read more about this week’s work in Washington below:
How We’re Fighting Back
This week, a U.S. Court of Appeals upheld a temporary block on the Trump Administration’s attempt to illegally use the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to expedite the deportation of immigrants without due process. The court’s decision affirms what we’ve long known: no president—past or present—is above the law.
As we continue to fight back against the Trump Administration’s dangerous actions, we are reminded that the strength of our democracy lies in its checks and balances—and in our collective commitment to justice. To learn more about my work on the Litigation and Response Task Force, visit: https://litigationandresponse.house.gov/
Supporting our Veteran Caregivers
Veteran caregivers give their all to support those who’ve served our country—it’s our duty to support them, too. This week, I reintroduced the bipartisan Veteran Caregiver Re-education, Re-employment, and Retirement (RRR) Act with Representative Ciscomani to ensure they get the benefits and protections they deserve.
Our legislation would help provide stability for caregivers and ensure they have the same benefits provided to other members of our workforce. I’m ready to work across the aisle to get this done. Supporting our veterans and their caregivers isn’t a partisan issue—it’s the right thing to do. Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Introduces Legislation to Support Veteran Caregivers
Expanding Early Cancer Detection Opportunities
No American should miss lifesaving cancer screenings due to extreme costs or lack of coverage. I’m proud to reintroduce my SCREENS for Cancer Act, which will expand access to breast and cervical cancer screenings.
This legislation will build on Wilmot Cancer Center’s recent National Cancer Institute designation to increase the early detection opportunities that save lives in communities like Rochester. Read more: Congress Joe Morelle Authors Legislation to Strengthen Resources for Early Detection of Cancer
Celebrating a Century of the Rochester Community Players
Here in Rochester, we have a vibrant and ever-growing artistic community. At the helm now for an entire century is the Rochester Community Players Theater Group. It was an honor to recognize this organization on the House floor this week and celebrate their 100th season. As the second oldest continually operating community theater group in the state of New York, they provide opportunities for local professionals to share their talent on the stage and behind the scenes.
It’s Bill Nye the Science Guy!
The one and only Bill Nye the Science Guy joined me in Washington this week, and we talked about how the pursuit of science is part of America’s story.
From your 5th-grade science classroom to the halls of Congress, one thing’s for sure—science rules!
Bringing Home the Funds Our Community is Owed
My office works every day to assist members of our community as they navigate federal agencies, seek access to important resources, and secure money owed to them. Since the start of this year, we have successfully returned more than $3,000,000 owed to local businesses and members of our community. I understand many in our community are concerned about recent changes to the Social Security Administration. Please know that while the Social Security Administration faces unprecedented threats, I will always fight to protect the benefits that support millions of Americans. For information on upcoming changes and questions regarding your benefits, visit https://www.ssa.gov/.
Please know my office is always here to help. Visit morelle.house.gov to learn more about how we can assist you and your family. Due to ongoing actions by the Trump Administration affecting federal agencies, case processing may be delayed. We appreciate your patience and remain committed to resolving your cases promptly.
March 22, 2025
I was excited to be back in Rochester this week where I continued my efforts to push back against President Trump’s harmful actions and honor some of our community’s heroes. Read more below:
How We’re Fighting Back
I recently joined the Litigation/Response Task Force, a group of House Democrats working together to form a coordinated response and fight together to protect the American people from the Trump administration’s unlawful executive orders and agency actions. We’re already seeing results.
Together we are holding President Trump and his agencies accountable and demanding answers through legislation and litigation efforts. Visit litigationandresponse.house.gov to learn more about these efforts and find resources and tools.
Fighting Back on Threats to Medicaid
President Trump is determined to gut Medicaid. That’s essential healthcare, especially for seniors and children. More than 250,000 people in our community rely on this program—and I won’t back down from the fight to protect it.
This week I was joined by two members of our community, Susan and Yolanda, whose families rely on Medicaid. Their stories reflect the reality of countless families in our region. It’s clear these cuts are not just a policy debate—it’s about real people and families who need care at an affordable cost. Read More: Congressman Morelle Slams Trump’s Proposed $900 Billion Cut to Medicaid
Honoring our Vietnam Veterans
As a member of the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, I had the honor of presenting Vietnam War veterans from the American Legion in Victor with honorary lapel pins and Certificates of Congressional Recognition this week. It was especially meaningful to host this event just before National Vietnam War Veterans Day, celebrated on March 29. It is my hope that these pins serve as a constant reminder to our courageous veterans that we will never forget their service, sacrifice, and heroism.
We look forward to honoring more of our local veterans in the future. If you know of a Vietnam War veteran who should receive this commemorative pin, please reach out to our office. Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Honors Local Vietnam Veterans
Celebrating a Real Rosie the Riveter
This week I had the truly special opportunity to recognize Mary Masciangelo, one of our nation’s “Rosie the Riveters,” who served as the backbone of the industrial effort during WWII. Mary’s legacy, and the legacy that defined an entire generation during the Second World War, is rooted in the spirit of resilience, strength, and dedication. In 2020, I proudly cosponsored legislation to recognize the incredible group of women known as the “Rosies,” and it was an honor to present Mary with this medal that symbolizes the work and spirit of the Rosies and celebrate her upcoming 100th birthday.
Recognizing a Milestone Years in the Making
After years of work, I am proud to say the Wilmot Cancer Center has officially been designated as a National Cancer Institute!
Wilmot is an institution that holds profound significance, not only for me and my family, but for our entire community. This prestigious recognition firmly establishes Wilmot among the nation’s premier cancer research and treatment centers, ensuring they remain a beacon of hope for families facing cancer for generations to come.
March 15, 2025
House Republicans have rammed through a partisan spending bill that hands President Trump unchecked power to slash essential programs, forcing devastating cuts Americans fear.
Ignoring their responsibility to craft a budget that meets the needs of working families, House Republicans have given Trump a green light to gut veterans’ services, slash Social Security retirement benefits, and strip healthcare from seniors and children—all to fund massive tax breaks to his billionaire friends.
This isn’t just fiscally reckless—it’s a direct attack on the well-being of everyday Americans. It’s chaos by design, perfectly aligned with the President’s brand: Trump and his friends first, working families last. While President Trump and House Republicans continue to prioritize the interests of billionaires, I’m fighting for families in our community. Read more about my week below:
Addressing the Tanking Stock Market
If spiking prices on everyday goods wasn’t enough—President Trump’s Trade war is threatening the retirement funds Americans have worked their entire careers for.
Since President Trump announced these disastrous tariffs, the U.S. stock market has lost about $4 trillion in value, meaning hardworking Americans’ savings take a hit and their financial security and plans for the future are at risk. We should be pursuing solutions that uplift families and help them make ends meet, not jeopardizing the investments they’ve worked for.
Joining the Congressional Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Alabama
It was an honor and a privilege to take part in this year’s Congressional Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Alabama with the Faith and Politics Institute. The history in Selma is a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come—and how far we still have to go.
Together with my colleagues, we crossed the Edmund Pettus Bridge to mark 60 years since hundreds crossed the very same bridge in pursuit of their fundamental right to vote only to be met with violence on what would come to be known as Bloody Sunday. Their courage changed history, but the fight for equality isn’t over—it’s happening now. As top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, I’m committed to the fight to ensure every American has the right to vote confidently in free and fair elections.
Supporting Dedicated Volunteers Across our Country
This week, I proudly introduced legislation to support volunteer programs, like Meals on Wheels, that deliver food to older, more vulnerable Americans.
This bill will help support the selfless volunteers in communities across the country who are committed to supporting our seniors. Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Authors Legislation to Support Volunteers Caring for Seniors and Vulnerable Americans
The 2025 Congressional Art Competition
I’m excited to announce the 2025 Congressional Art Competition! This competition is open to high school students in New York’s 25th Congressional District, and the winner will have the opportunity to have their artwork displayed in the United States Capitol for one year. This year’s theme is, “Why I Love Rochester.”
This is an exciting way to celebrate the artistic talent across Rochester, and I highly encourage students to participate. To learn more about the rules and guidelines for submissions, visit my website here. I cannot wait to see all the pieces from talented artists across our community!
Please know my office is always here to help. Visit morelle.house.gov to learn more about how we can assist you and your family. Due to ongoing actions by the Trump Administration affecting federal agencies, case processing may be slightly delayed. We appreciate your patience and remain committed to resolving your cases promptly.
March 9, 2025
This week’s joint address to Congress was exactly what we’ve come to expect from Donald Trump—more meaningless promises designed to distract from the reckless and destructive policies of his administration.
The American people aren’t fooled. They know we need real solutions to lower costs, keep our communities safe and build a stronger economy—not more tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires. We should be standing up for middle class families, protecting our freedoms, and defending democracy—the very values that have always defined our nation. This address was another missed opportunity. I can only hope that one day, the President makes a good-faith effort to advance what should be shared goals. Until then, I will continue fighting for what is right.
How We’re Fighting Back
The so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has set their sights on the Social Security Administration, putting monthly benefit checks for millions of Americans at risk. Shuttering field offices and gutting Social Security staffing has nothing to do with “governmental efficiency,” it’s a de facto benefit cut for hardworking Americans. I joined my colleagues this week in urging the Acting Commissioner to halt any plans for cuts that will devastate SSA’s ability to service the public.
Expanding Resources to Fight Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Far too many families, including my own, have felt the pain of losing a loved one to triple-negative breast cancer. We must fight this aggressive disease with an equally aggressive response. As we marked Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Awareness Day on March 3rd, I proudly introduced legislation in honor of my daughter, Lauren, to help more people receive access to life-saving information and treatments. I was joined by the TNBC Foundation and TOUCH, the Black Breast Cancer Alliance, this week to talk about the importance of this legislation and spread awareness about this devastating disease.
Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Leads National Effort to Combat Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Defending Voting Rights for All Americans
I was proud to stand with my colleagues this week to reintroduce the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to fight against discriminatory voter suppression practices. Every eligible American deserves the right to confidently cast their ballot and make their voice heard in free and fair elections. As the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administrations, I’m leading the fight to protect the sanctity of our elections—the bedrock of our democracy—and safeguard every American’s right to vote.
Celebrating Women’s History Month
In March, we celebrate Women’s History Month. This is a time to recognize the women who have built, strengthened, and inspired our country—a group that is countless and ever growing.
I’m proud to represent a community with a rich history of fighting for women’s rights, and together, we’ll keep fighting for the full equality all women deserve. Please know my office is always here to help. Visit morelle.house.gov to learn more about how we can assist you and your family. Due to ongoing actions by the Trump Administration affecting federal agencies, case processing may be slightly delayed. We appreciate your patience and remain committed to resolving your cases promptly.
March 1, 2025
This week, House Republicans voted to pass a disastrous budget plan that will rip away the programs our community relies on like Medicaid and SNAP. I stood with my Democratic colleagues against this betrayal of working families, and I won’t stop fighting to protect the essential services being targeted. I was grateful to be joined by many of you for a telephone town hall on Wednesday to hear your thoughts and concerns and discuss how we’re fighting back against the Trump Administration’s dangerous actions.
Read more about my week below:
Fighting Back Against the Republican’s Dangerous Budget Plan
Ahead of the vote on the budget, I joined the debate on the House floor to urge my colleagues to vote no on this dangerous plan. The bill pushes our nation closer to gutting the healthcare assistance families rely on, enacting billions of cuts to food aid, and delivering all of these so-called savings to the wealthy elite.
Supporting Public Transit in Rochester
I always appreciate local leaders joining me in Washington to talk about their work in our community. This week I met with my friend Miguel Velazquez from RTS and had a great conversation about their priorities. RTS is a critical piece of Rochester’s infrastructure, connecting families with job opportunities, healthcare services, and more.
Meeting With the Jewish Community of Rochester
It was an honor to welcome Governor Kathy Hochul to our community this week for a luncheon with the Jewish Federation of Rochester. This organization’s work is vital—particularly during these challenging times—and it does not go unnoticed. Antisemitism remains a persistent threat across the United States and here in New York. Together we’re fighting back by standing up, speaking out, and ensuring this community remains safe, strong, and proud.
Connecting With Our Community
I was joined by thousands of community members this week for a telephone town hall to discuss how we’re fighting back against the dangerous actions of the Trump Administration. I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who joined to share their thoughts and concerns and ask questions.
February 21, 2025
This past Monday marked our annual recognition of Presidents’ Day. In his Farewell Address, President Washington cautioned us about ‘pretended patriotism’—a warning that is just as urgent today as it was in 1796. During these uncertain times, let us remember that true patriotism means fighting for democracy, not exploiting it for your personal interests.
The reckless actions of the Trump administration kept coming this week as he fired key employees responsible for managing our nuclear weapons stockpile. These professionals play a critical role in keeping our country safe, and their expertise is irreplaceable. This is a dangerous move that threatens our national security. My office has received thousands of calls regarding the Trump Administration’s actions. I want to hear your concerns and answer your questions. Please join me for a Telephone Town Hall next Wednesday, February 26th at 5:30 PM. You can RSVP and ask your questions here.
How We’re Fighting Back
My colleagues and I are pushing back against the dangerous actions of the Trump Administration. I’ve joined the Litigation and Response Task Force to help craft a coordinated response to unlawful Executive Orders and agency actions. Over 70 cases have now been filed against administration Executive Orders or agency actions and we’re going to keep fighting back at every opportunity.
Expanding Access to Food for Our Neighbors in Need
It was great to join County Executive Bello and Mayor Evans to cut the ribbon on Trillium’s upgraded food pantry. I proudly secured nearly $6 million in federal funding to make this possible, and I’m grateful to Trillium for their continued efforts to expand healthcare access in our community. With this funding, Trillium has purchased a new freezer and built an expanded teaching kitchen for its food pharmacy program. They will be able to serve more people in our community and continue their commitment to providing healthcare beyond traditional doctors’ visits or medications.
Supporting Affordable Housing Initiatives
I stopped by the Rochester Housing Authority on Thursday to discuss their mission to provide access to quality, safe, affordable housing for everyone in our city. During a winter when temperatures are staying low, and snow is accumulating across our region, it’s more important than ever that we ensure no one is left out in the cold. We must work together as a community and take a comprehensive approach to tackling the housing crisis facing our country.
Visiting a Local Rochester Business
Select Fabricators is one of the many innovative companies that call Rochester home. Their products are used in industries across the country, including our armed forces. I joined their leadership team for a tour of their facilities this week and we had a great conversation about the work they are doing.
Supporting Veterans Across our Region
I joined the Veterans Administration Finger Lakes Healthcare System team today at the Canandaigua Medical Center for a tour of their outpatient clinic. With my congressional district now including parts of Ontario County, I’m excited to work alongside them to ensure veterans and military families in the Finger Lakes Region receive the high-quality healthcare they have earned through their service.
The VA has faced severe staffing shortages for over a decade, and President Trump’s government-wide hiring freeze is only making it worse. I’m fighting to expand access to the benefits our veterans are owed, and I won’t stand back while the new administration cuts this critical organization’s ability to function.
| February 14, 2025 As elected officials, we’re often guilty of saying something is “unprecedented” or that a particular moment is “one of the most important in our nation’s history.” I believe what we are experiencing right now is truly and honestly unprecedented. We did not elect a king. I believe President Trump’s repeated overreach of executive power is illegal and unconstitutional and I’m going to keep fighting back every time the President engages in corrupt behavior that hurts our families. Read more about how I’m working with my colleagues to develop solutions that restore stability and accountability, and continuing to represent our community in Washington: |
How We’re Fighting Back
This week, I led the New York Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) criticizing their decision to drastically reduce grant funding. This funding ensures institutions can provide the necessary support for high-quality research without placing an undue financial burden on the researchers themselves.
We’re urging them to rescind this decision and work with Members of Congress to ensure any proposed changes lead to more jobs for the American people and more lifesaving, cutting-edge research. Read more here: Congressman Joe Morelle Calls Out Restrictive Changes to National Institutes of Health Grants, Research Funding.
Carrying Out the Committee Funding Process
The committee funding process is one of the more unique aspects of my role as top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration. It is through the committees that we exercise critical oversight, craft and debate policy proposals, and decide what to recommend to the broader House for consideration.
During day 1 of Committee Funding Hearings for the 119th Congress, I delivered opening remarks on how fundamental this process is to our system of representative government and highlighted Congress’ role as the sole authorizer and appropriator of federal public money.
Supporting the SUNY System
As a proud SUNY alum, I know firsthand how the system provides extraordinary opportunities for our students to advance their education and gain skills that will set them up for successful careers. I met with SUNY Chancellor King to discuss the important work our SUNY schools are doing, and the unique challenges they face in this changing political climate.
Preserving the Great Lakes
This week, I received an update from the International Joint Commission on their work to protect the beautiful waters of Lake Ontario.
The Great Lakes are an essential resource—one that we are working together to preserve for generations to come. I’m proud to lead this work through my role on the Great Lakes Task Force.
Please know my office is always here to help. Visit morelle.house.gov to learn more about how we can assist you and your family.
February 8, 2025
This week, President Trump launched a reckless trade war against our allies—one that everyday Americans will pay for at the grocery store, at the gas pump, and around the kitchen table. The American people have made it clear: they want lower costs, not higher bills. Yet instead of delivering relief, the President’s policies will drive up prices while his billionaire friends continue to enjoy tax breaks.
It’s clear President Trump isn’t serious about tackling the the high cost of living for hardworking Americans. That is why I’m fighting back against these misguided policies and working to advance real solutions that help families make ends meet. Alongside my Democratic colleagues, I’m developing legislative and policy solutions to put an end to the President’s reckless and unconstitutional actions and restore balance and accountability to our government.
Beyond legislation, I remain in constant contact with local agencies and organizations impacted by these harmful policies. This week, my office continued to work side by side with these groups to protect critical services and ensure our community doesn’t bear the brunt of the President’s overreach.
How We’re Fighting Back
This week, I proudly cosponsored the Taxpayer Data Protection Act to stop people without a security clearance from accessing the highly sensitive Treasury Department payment system—which is responsible for Social Security and Medicare benefits.
Unelected billionaires with zero accountability should not be allowed to rifle through the private data of hardworking Americans. This legislation will protect the Treasury Department’s highly confidential systems. Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Sponsors Legislation to Uphold Privacy of Americans and Protect Against Unlawful Interference by Elon Musk
Ensuring Access to a High-Quality Education
We owe it to every child and young adult to provide them with the opportunities, skills, and tools necessary to succeed in today’s world, and that starts with a quality education. As our education system comes under attack from the new administration, I’m working to ensure our educators, and parents have the resources they need to set children and young adults on the path to success. This week, I met with the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities and the NYS School Board Association to discuss how we can ensure students at every level have access to a high-quality education.
Protecting Access to Healthcare in our Community
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) in our community provide essential healthcare services our neighbors rely on. President Trump’s reckless funding freeze puts these critical organizations directly in jeopardy.
We’re not going to back down in the fight against this illegal overreach of presidential powers. I met with a group of FQHCs in Washington this week to reaffirm my commitment to securing the resources they need and discuss how we can best support them in these uncertain times.
Supporting our Local Unions
I was excited to welcome my brothers and sisters in labor from SEIU Local 1199 to Washington this week to discuss their role on the frontlines of our community’s healthcare services. I’m proud to support unions and their mission to support and protect workers and families everywhere.
Strengthening Accessibility for Blind Americans
The National Federation of the Blind plays a vital role in supporting and uplifting blind Americans. It was great to join them for their Congressional Reception and meet with a group of members in my Washington office this week. Together, we’ll keep working to strengthen accessibility and inclusivity despite the new threats they face.
February 1, 2025
This has been an incredibly stressful and chaotic week for our community and our entire country. Together, we have grappled with President Trump’s unprecedented Executive Order to freeze federal funding, an act that would have a devastating, multigenerational impact on nearly half our nation’s population.
My office has been overflowing with calls from community members who are concerned, scared, and angry—just like I am.
The president is intended to be a servant, not a king—and we will not allow President Trump to unilaterally make decisions that defy the system of checks and balances that defines our democracy. We must recognize these actions for what they are: an effort to consolidate power and erode the fundamental principles that govern out nation. In the weeks and months ahead, know that I am committed to fighting back against these reckless Executive Orders—in the courts and wherever necessary. In the meantime, I’m continuing to work on behalf of our community. Read more about my week below:
Protecting our Promise to Older Americans
Speaker Johnson and the House Republicans have indicated their willingness to gut the Social Security program, stripping benefits away from millions of Americans. Seniors earned these benefits, and they don’t deserve to have their livelihoods used as political bargaining chips.
I’m doing everything I can to fight back. This week, I was joined by Lifespan to outline legislation I support to ensure the long-term vitality of Social Security. The Social Security 2100 Act would increase benefits for all beneficiaries, improve the Cost-of-Living Adjustments to reflect inflation, and end the five-month waiting period for disability benefits, along with other common-sense measures. Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Outlines Action to Protect Social Security
Visiting RMSC’s Latest Exhibit
I had the pleasure of visiting the Rochester Museum and Science Center this week to tour their latest exhibit and meet with curator Jamie Jacobs. The exhibit, Hodinöšyö:nih Continuity | Innovation | Resilience, showcases Indigenous artists inspired by their ancestors and brings a unique educational opportunity to our community. Earlier this month, I stood on the House floor to recognize the groundbreaking work of Jamie Jacobs and celebrate the opening of this exhibit, made possible in part by federal investment. You can see my full remarks here: Congressman Morelle Delivers Remarks on the House Floor Celebrating RMSC’s New Exhibit
Visiting Local Rochester Organizations
Hope 585 works every day to help marginalized youth and their families heal and move forward with strength. It was a pleasure to meet with them this week and discuss our shared mission to build a brighter future for everyone in Rochester.
This week, I joined the Child Care Council for a tour of their state-of-the-art mental health clinic which is set to open soon here in Rochester. This facility will help countless families and children in our community improve their social and emotional well being. Without access to affordable childcare services, our kids cannot learn, and our economy cannot grow. While we work to make universal childcare a reality, I’m grateful to organizations like the Child Care Council for connecting quality care providers with families who need them.
Honoring a Half Century of Public Service
For 52 years, Army veteran Daniel Schum has served the Town of Ogden with purpose and integrity as the Town Attorney. It was an honor to present a U.S. flag flown over the Capitol to him at his retirement celebration today.
A half-century of service is an extraordinary and rare milestone that few, if any individuals ever reach, and it speaks volumes about Dan’s commitment to the people of Ogden. Congratulations to Dan on a well-earned retirement! This week we witnessed a horrific plane crash in Washington. My heart is with the families and loved ones affected by this tragedy, and I’m grateful for the brave first responders who worked through the night on search and rescue efforts. I will continue to hold everyone impacted in my prayers.
Very interesting info!Perfect just what I was looking for!Expand blog
Thanks for the feedback. I am up-dating posts by Joe Morelle and Kirsten Gillibrand weekly.