| March 27, 2026 We are now a month into Trump’s costly and dangerous war with Iran. More than $25 billion has already been spent on this conflict, with no clear strategy and no clear end in sight. Now, the Trump Administration has lifted sanctions on Iranian oil, a decision which will inject billions into the very regime he claims to be confronting. I’m taking action to hold this administration accountable, push back on these dangerous decisions, and ensure Congress reasserts its authority over matters of war. Read more about my thoughts on the War in Iran in Heather Cox Richardson’s latest edition of, “Letters from an American,” here. Hear about my work in Washington this week: How We’re Fighting Back I am continuing to lead the fight against Republicans’ so-called SAVE America Act, legislation that is nothing more than an attempt to silence voters and make it harder for eligible Americans to cast their ballots. The bill would impose burdensome new requirements that disproportionately impact seniors, students, and women across the country. The bill is currently in the Senate where its future remains uncertain. That hasn’t stopped Donald Trump from pushing the same false narratives about our elections that undermine public trust and threaten our democracy, like the myth that mail-in voting is a threat to our elections. In a moment of stunning hypocrisy, Trump himself voted by mail this week, the very method he has spent years attacking. Marking the 16th Anniversary of the ACA This week marked 16 years since the Affordable Care Act was signed into law, a groundbreaking piece of legislation that expanded coverage, lowered costs, and brought millions of Americans the security of knowing they could access care when they need it. Today, that progress is under threat. Republicans have allowed critical ACA premium tax credits that helped families afford coverage to expire, driving up costs and putting care out of reach for millions of Americans. I am fighting alongside my colleagues to restore and expand these tax credits, lower costs, and protect the gains we’ve made since the ACA was signed into law. Appropriations Committee Hearing on the National Weather Service In the weeks ahead, Congress will hold a number of appropriations hearings where I will have the opportunity to confront the Trump administrations’ agency officials. I will use this opportunity to hold the administration accountable for their actions over the past year, as well as fight for fair and meaningful funding for the programs and priorities communities like ours rely on every day. I’m proud to be Vice Ranking Member of the Appropriations Committee and deliver real results for Rochester families. This week we held a Commerce, Justice, and Science (CJS) Appropriations hearing focused on the critical role of the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service. Reliable weather forecasting saves lives. As extreme weather becomes more frequent and more severe, we must ensure these agencies have the resources they need to keep our communities safe and informed. An Important Read: Angie Pérez-Delgado, President and CEO of Ibero-American Action League, joined me as my guest at this year’s State of the Union, not just as a distinguished community leader, but as a voice for the families and communities who too often are left out of the policies being created in Washington, especially by the Trump Administration. We also sat down to talk about the challenges facing our country in this moment. You can watch that conversation here. At a moment when this administration’s rhetoric painted a false picture of progress, her presence in the chamber was a powerful reminder of who is still being impacted by their out-of-touch decisions. Angie shared her own reflection from that night, a deeply personal account that speaks for itself and for so many across our community. I encourage you to read her writing here: I Am American Too REMINDER: Submit Your Art to the Congressional Art Competition I’m excited to invite high school students from across our district to participate in this year’s Congressional Art Competition. Each year, this competition is an opportunity for young artists to showcase their creativity, with the winning piece displayed in the U.S. Capitol for an entire year. I’m always inspired by the talent and perspective our students bring to their work. Learn more here. 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 20, 2026 We are 21 days into Trump’s war in Iran and spending $1 billion a day in taxpayer dollars. Now, the Trump Administration is asking for an additional $200 billion for the Iran war. What could we be doing with just a fraction of that money instead? Supporting hardworking American families. To compare, restoring the Affordable Care Act tax credits that support lifesaving care for millions would cost $91 million a day. Costs are skyrocketing, the American people cannot afford another unending war in the Middle East. I’ll keep fighting to bring down costs and hold the Trump Administration accountable. Here’s what you need to know about my work this week: How We’re Fighting Back This week, the U.S. Senate began debate on the SAVE America Act, the greatest voter suppression bill ever to be considered by both houses of Congress. This is an attempt to take over our elections, and it has to be stopped. As top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, which oversees federal elections, I joined Senator Padilla, Senator Schumer, and voting rights advocates this week to outline our fight to protect the right of every eligible American to vote and ensure that vote is counted. We are laser-focused and will use every tool available to us to stop all forms of this attempt to silence voters. Read more: Schumer, Padilla, Morelle, Voting Rights Advocates Reject Republicans’ SAVE America Act, Trump’s Attempted Elections Takeover I’m leading my colleagues to fight back on this at every opportunity. I joined CNN This Morning and Way Too Early on MS Now to talk about the latest tools in Republicans’ election-takeover toolkit. Honoring our History I’m heartened to see a long-overdue January 6 plaque finally installed in the Capitol, however, the plaque currently hangs in an isolated corridor inaccessible to the public. By law, this plaque should hang prominently on the West Front of the Capitol, and I remain committed to giving the plaque the full recognition it deserves. On Tuesday, I led a group of my colleagues to visit the plaque and honor the law enforcement officers who served so bravely that day. This comes after years of shameful delay from Speaker Johnson and House Republicans. We kept fighting to display this plaque because we need to honor our history and honor the men and women who defended our Capitol at its darkest hour. We will keep fighting to prominently hang the plaque for all Americans to view. Meeting with Community Leaders I recently sat down with the Urban League of Rochester and the ROC Community Table to discuss the issues facing our country and our community. The Trump Administration’s reckless federal policy changes have a very real impact on the communities we represent, and I’m grateful for the ongoing discussion I’ve had with this group to hear their concerns and work together toward a stronger future. Local Spotlight I’m excited to share that we have two Rochester natives competing in the March Madness NCAA tournament this year! Melvin Council, with the Kansas Jayhawks, and Jaden Bradley, with the Arizona Wildcats, will compete on the national stage. Our community is full of talented young people chasing their dreams, and we’re proud to cheer on these young athletes. Congratulations to Melvin and Jaden! 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 13, 2026 Pentagon officials have informed Congress the first week of military operations in Iran cost $11.3 billion taxpayer dollars. At a time when families here at home are struggling with rising grocery bills, housing costs, and gas prices climbing because of this conflict, it’s clear working families are paying the price of Donald Trump’s reckless actions. Hard working people are suffering, with no explanation for his actions, while he spends billions of dollars on his war with Iran, a war I voted to end. I will continue demanding transparency and accountability from President Trump and his administration. I was grateful to be home in Rochester this week, meeting with local organizations and residents to talk about their work and the challenges facing our country. Read more below: |
| How We’re Fighting Back |
| This week, a long-overdue plaque honoring the law enforcement officers who defended the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021 was finally installed inside the Capitol. For years, I have pushed to ensure these officers receive the recognition they deserve. Speaker Johnson may have tried to bury the plaque, but it’s finally in the Capitol, permanently honoring the officers who defended us and this institution during a deadly riot incited by the President. This is a time to reaffirm our commitment to protecting the peaceful transfer of power, our elections, and the integrity of our democracy. As top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, I’m working to strengthen our election security, protect access to the ballot box, and ensure the will of the American people is respected every single time they cast a vote. I joined Nexstar’s Margaret Chadbourn to talk about the hanging of the plaque: |
| Investing in Essential Infrastructure |
| I joined the Town of Victor on Tuesday to announce $1,002,944 in federal funding to replace an aging sanitary sewer force main along County Road 9. Over the past 15 years, the existing line has failed five times, releasing untreated sewage into White Brook and creating serious risks to public health and the environment. This investment will allow the town to replace the 35-year-old pipe with a modern, corrosion-resistant system designed to operate safely and reliably for decades to come. I secured this funding through the Fiscal Year 2026 Community Project Funding process. I’m proud to work with local leaders like Supervisor Marren to secure the federal resources needed to strengthen our infrastructure and protect the natural resources that make the Finger Lakes region such a special place to live. Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Secures More Than $1 Million for Victor Infrastructure Improvements |
| Honoring Local Vietnam Veterans |
| I had the privilege of once again recognizing several Vietnam War veterans from our community this week by presenting them with Vietnam War Commemoration Lapel Pins in honor of their service and sacrifice. For far too long, many Vietnam veterans did not receive the recognition they deserved when they returned home. These commemorative pins serve as a small but meaningful way to thank them for their courage and to ensure their service to our nation is never forgotten. I was proud to honor these local veterans and their families, and I remain deeply grateful for the sacrifices they made on behalf of our country. Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Honors Local Vietnam Veterans |
| REMINDER: Take Part in the 2026 Congressional Art Competition |
A reminder to students across our community: submissions are now open for this year’s Congressional Art Competition!
Each spring, members of the U.S. House of Representatives host this nationwide competition to recognize and celebrate the incredible artistic talent of high school students. This year’s theme is “Celebrating the Erie Canal,” highlighting the history and lasting impact the canal has had on our region.
The winning artwork will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol, alongside winning pieces from districts across the country. Submissions are due April 17.
For more information, including rules and submission details, please visit my website or contact my office.
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 7, 2026
| This past week, President Trump authorized new, widespread military strikes against Iran, a serious development with potentially far-reaching consequences for our national security and the safety of American service members. The Iranian regime is repressive, destabilizing, and its pursuit of nuclear capabilities poses a genuine global threat. But decisions to use military force carry immense risks and responsibilities. The President is empowered to act if there is an imminent threat to the United States, and I believe Congress and the American people deserve clear evidence that such a threat existed before these strikes were ordered. The American people cannot be asked to bear the burden of another unending war in the Middle East without transparency, accountability, and a clear strategy moving forward. Above all, I am praying for the safety of our troops and for all those in harm’s way. |
| How We’re Fighting Back |
| I joined CNN This Morning with Audie Cornish to talk about President Trump’s Strikes on Iran, and his ongoing efforts to take over our elections and suppress the voice of the American people. Watch the full segment here: |
This week I also led a briefing for all House Democrats on election security. My responsibility as the lead Democrat on the committee that has jurisdiction over elections is to make sure that there isn’t the kind of tampering with the midterm elections that the president has threatened he will do.
After reports surfaced last week that the Trump Administration’s Department of Homeland Security is planning to build a detention facility inside Rochester’s Federal Building, I joined Senator Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand in demanding the administration immediately halt these plans and provide answers. This is a busy downtown site that houses federal courts, community services, and even a daycare.
Rochester deserves transparency and a real public process before any decision of this magnitude moves forward. I will continue fighting for our community.
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Awareness
This week, I reintroduced my resolution designating March 3 as National Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Awareness Day, continuing my commitment to elevating awareness and supporting research for one of the most aggressive forms of breast cancer.
Triple-negative breast cancer is particularly difficult to treat because it does not respond to many of the most common targeted therapies. It also disproportionately affects younger women and women of color, making awareness, early detection, and continued research especially critical.
For my family, this fight is deeply personal. My daughter Lauren battled triple-negative breast cancer for two years, and her courage continues to inspire my work to ensure that no family faces this diagnosis without hope, support, and the promise of better treatment options ahead.
Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Marks March 3 as National Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Awareness Day.
Women’s History Month
March is Women’s History Month, and this weekend we’ll recognize International Women’s Day. This is a time to recognize the extraordinary women who have shaped our communities, our country, and the fight for equality.
Here in Rochester, we are proud to stand on the shoulders of some of the most influential leaders of the women’s rights movement. Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton organized, advocated, and refused to accept a world where women were denied the right to vote. Their work helped ignite a national movement for equality that ultimately led to the passage of the 19th Amendment.
This month is an opportunity not only to reflect on their courage and determination, but also to recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of building a more equal future. The progress we celebrate today was made possible by generations of women who refused to accept injustice, and their legacy continues to inspire the fight for opportunity and equality for all.
Honoring the Legacy of Bloody Sunday
This weekend we mark the anniversary of Bloody Sunday, when peaceful civil rights marchers were brutally attacked on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama as they fought for the fundamental right to vote
The courage of those marchers led directly to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, one of the most important civil rights laws in our country’s history. The work to protect voting rights did not end in Selma. In recent years, we have seen renewed efforts across the country to restrict access to the ballot box and weaken the protections generations fought to secure.
As the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, which oversees federal elections, I remain committed to defending every American’s right to vote. That’s why I’m continuing to push for the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, critical legislation that would restore and strengthen the protections of the original Voting Rights Act, expand access to the ballot, and ensure our elections remain fair, secure, and accessible.
The marchers in Selma risked their lives for the promise of democracy. Honoring their legacy means continuing the fight to protect that promise for every American.
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.
February 28, 2026
| We are unequivocally opposed to ICE installing detention cells in downtown Rochester, steps from a daycare and surrounded by homes and businesses. Here is what we know so far. The Trump Administration is moving forward in secret, with no notice, no public process, and no transparency. This is completely inappropriate and flat-out unacceptable. This President has a pattern of creating and escalating combustible situations and then forcing communities to deal with the fallout. Rochester will not be treated as a staging ground for this administration’s reckless political agenda. |
| Justice for Omar Ramos-Jimenez |
The Constitution is clear: due process is for all persons. Not some. Not a few. All. ICE’s months-long detention of Omar Ramos-Jimenez violates that promise and is an affront to the rule of law. Their actions in this case are abhorrent but sadly what we’ve come to expect from the Trump administration.
Omar is a longtime Rochester resident, business owner, and father who has pursued his immigration case the right way by following the rules and complying with check-ins for years. He is a law-abiding fixture in our community who has been held for months and is now being transferred out of state, away from his family.
Omar’s case is, unfortunately, one of thousands like it. This situation underscores broader failures in our immigration system, where individuals with deep community ties can be detained without meaningful access to relief or the full protections they are owed under the law. My office continues to hear from neighbors and community members alarmed by what this means for his family and others in similar circumstances.
| Donald Trump promised he was going to get rid of rapists, murderers, and other dangerous criminals. The ‘worst of the worst.’ In describing Omar, nothing could be further from the truth. I stand with his family and will continue fighting for an immigration system that reflects our constitutional values, not the cruelty and political fear tactics we are seeing from this President. |
| Responding to the State of the Union |
As I sat in the chamber for the State of the Union this week, I was thinking about families here in Rochester and across the county who are working hard and still struggling to get ahead. They deserved honesty about the challenges we face and a serious plan to protect their futures. Instead, they got distortion, deflection, and dangerous lies. It was a disservice to the American people, and frankly, it was infuriating.
Donald Trump used his address to paint a picture of an America that simply does not exist for working families. If his policies were truly strengthening our economy, families would not be struggling to afford groceries, rent, childcare, and healthcare.
My guest for the evening was Angie Perez-Delgado, the President of Ibero-American Action League, who sees that reality every day. Families in our community are working harder than ever and still falling behind because this administration refuses to put them first.
Trust in Our Institutions
The President also claimed he wants to restore trust in government. If that were true, he would support banning Members of Congress, the President, and the Vice President from trading individual stocks. I have a discharge petition ready to force a real stock trading ban to the House floor. If he is serious about reform, he should back it.
Instead, we heard recycled, debunked attacks on our elections.
Our elections are secure. Noncitizen voting is illegal. Both Republicans and Democrats win fair and square. Suggesting otherwise belongs in the realm of the tooth fairy and the Loch Ness monster, not a presidential address.
Voting by mail is safe and secure. It is used successfully in countries like Canada, Germany, New Zealand, Iceland, and the United Kingdom. And instances of noncitizen voting are extraordinarily rare. In fact, you are more likely to be struck by lightning. When it happens, it is already illegal and should be prosecuted.
The SAVE America Act, which the President touted, would hand over sensitive personal data to the Department of Homeland Security. That is not election security. That is government overreach, and I will not support it.
| At a time when families are asking for help lowering costs and expanding healthcare access, the President chose instead to sow chaos and spread misinformation. The American people deserve better. |
| Setting the Record Straight |
After the address, I joined Bloomberg’s Balance of Power to directly respond to the President’s false claims about our elections.
Undermining confidence in free and fair elections is dangerous. Our democracy depends on people utilizing their fundamental right to vote and trusting the results. Stoking conspiracy theories weakens that foundation.
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.
February 21, 2026
How We’re Fighting Back
Free and fair elections are the foundation of our democracy. This week I convened a roundtable discussion with leaders in Rochester focused on the election security and anti-corruption efforts I am leading as the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration.
We discussed the Trump Administration’s ongoing attack on our elections, the spread of disinformation, and what Congress must to do strengthen voter protections and restore trust in our government. We’re fighting back against attempts to undermine the National Voter Registration Act, restrict ballot access, and inject partisan politics into election oversight.
I also joined the Brennan Center’s The Briefing Podcast to discuss the urgent fight to protect our democracy, defend voting rights, and stand up for every eligible American’s voice.
I will continue using every tool available to fight corruption, defend election security, and protect every eligible American’s right to cast their ballot and have it counted.
Bringing Home Federal Dollars
On Wednesday, I stood with community leaders to celebrate a major federal investment in Miss Julie’s School a Beauty, a one-of-a-kind training program in Rochester that equips survivors of human trafficking with trauma-informed cosmetology education and a pathway to financial independence. This funding will help support the continued operation and expansion of this program, building on its mission to remove barriers to opportunity and empower students with real skills and careers.
Miss Julie’s is a place of healing and hope and I’m proud to bring federal resources home that strengthen organizations like this that are making tangible differences in the lives of our neighbors.
Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Announces New Federal Funding for Miss Julie’s School of Beauty
Recognizing Major Investments in Rochester
I was proud to stand with local partners from Goodwill of the Finger Lakes and Reju this week to highlight a major step forward in turning Rochester into a hub for textile recycling and sustainable economic growth.
Reju is a French textile-to-textile regeneration company that selected Rochester for its first North American regeneration facility. Part of a projected $390 million investment, the planned 145,000 square-foot hub will transform discarded polyester textiles into high-quality recycled materials using innovative technology, creating new jobs, and strengthening our local economy.
This investment reflects the kind of forward-looking economic development I’m fighting for in Congress, projects that protect our environment, open new career pathways, and bring innovative industries to our community.
Honoring our Vietnam War Veterans
One of the greatest honors of my service in Congress is recognizing the brave men and women who answered our nation’s call during the Vietnam War.
Through the United States Vietnam War Commemoration, our office hosts Vietnam Veterans Pinning Ceremonies to present veterans with a commemorative lapel pin and certificate of congressional recognition. This ceremony is a way to express our lasting gratitude for their courage, sacrifice, and service.
If you are a Vietnam War veteran, or know someone who served during that era, I encourage you to RSVP with our office to participate in our next ceremony on March 10th. It would be our privilege to honor your service.
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.
February 14, 2026
How We’re Fighting Back
I led the debate on the House floor against Republicans’ so-called SAVE America Act, a dangerous proposal that would create unnecessary barriers to the ballot box and force state election leaders to turn over private voter information to Kristi Noem’s Department of Homeland Security. This legislation could disenfranchise millions of voters who lack ready access to a U.S. passport or a birth certificate.
As top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, I made clear: elections in this country are run by trained local officials, not by the White House. Americans deserve free, fair, and secure elections without partisan interference.
President Trump and Republicans want to change the rules because they’re terrified the American people will use their voice to vote them out of office. I’ll continue using my leadership role to fight back and prevent any effort to take over our elections. I also joined Bloomberg’s Balance of Power to raise the alarm on this dangerous bill.
Exposing Voter Suppression Efforts
Republicans on the House Administration Committee held a hearing this week on their broader election takeover agenda. At that hearing, I called out efforts to change the rules of our elections for partisan gain.
Election integrity is strengthened by transparency, adherence to the Constitution, and respect for state authority, not by intimidation or political gamesmanship. I will continue using every tool available to defend the right of every eligible American to vote.
Rooting Out Corruption
Americans are tired of watching elected officials profit off the very system they were elected to serve, and so am I.
I’m calling on my colleagues to sign onto my discharge petition to immediately force a vote on a real stock trading ban for Members of Congress, the President, and the Vice President. We are now up to 178 signatures.
This is about restoring trust. Public service should never be a pathway to personal profit. We’re building momentum, and I won’t stop until we get this bill to the House floor and get it passed.
Cheering On Rochester’s Olympians
The Winter Olympics are well underway, and Rochester is proudly represented on Team USA.
This week we saw women’s ice hockey defenseman Haley Winn score her first Olympic goal as the team swept their opponents in the preliminary rounds. Freestyle mogul skier Dylan Walczyk qualified and competed in the first final this week, and next week, we’ll be cheering on aerial skier Chris Lillis as he begins his competitions.
Competing on the world stage is no small feat, and our entire community is behind them. Let’s go Team USA!
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.
February 7, 2026
I spent this week working for our community in Washington. Once again, I voted against funding the Department of Homeland Security. We cannot allow the cruelty and violence that ICE continues to inflict on our neighbors and communities.
How We’re Fighting Back
Right now, our country is facing a deep and growing crisis of public trust. Americans are tired of watching powerful people exploit the system for personal gain while working families are left behind, and they’re right to demand better.
I’m proud to be leading a discharge petition to force a vote on a real congressional stock trading ban, one without loopholes or excuses. Members of Congress should not be able to buy or sell stocks, and neither should the president or vice president. Public service should not be a path to personal profit.
I’m leading my colleagues with a clear strategy: root out corruption, restore integrity, and put the public interest first. This discharge petition is the next step in delivering on that promise.
Read More: Morelle, Magaziner, and Jayapal Sign Discharge Petition to Pass Congressional Stock Ban
Celebrating Black History Month
Black history is American history, and it deserves to be taught, honored, and protected.
This Black History Month we honor the generations of Black Americans whose leadership and contributions have shaped our nation. Black history is not just a reflection of the past; it is a vital part of who we are today and who we strive to become as a nation.
As we celebrate this month, we also recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of building a more just and equitable future
Cheering On Local Olympians
The Winter Olympics are officially underway, and communities across the country are coming together to celebrate the incredible athletes representing Team USA on the world stage.
Here in Rochester, we’re rooting on Chris Lillis, a freestyle skier competing in aerials, Haley Winn, a defenseman representing Team USA in women’s ice hockey, Emily Renna, a bobsledder, and Dylan Walczyk, a freestyle skier competing in moguls. These are proud local athletes who are competing among the very best in the world.
As these Games begin, we celebrate the spirit of competition, teamwork, and unity that the Olympics represent, and we proudly stand behind Chris, Haley, Emily, Dan, and all of Team USA. We’ll be cheering them on every step of the way.
Honoring Helen Pluta
This week, I had the honor of speaking on the House floor to recognize the life and legacy of an extraordinary Rochesterian, Helen Pluta. Helen was a woman defined by compassion, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to caring for others. Her impact on our community is profound and enduring.
Alongside her late husband, Andy, Helen helped bring to life the Pluta Cancer Center, a place of hope and healing for thousands of patients and families, including my own. While we mourn her passing, we also give thanks for a life rooted in service, love, and lasting impact. Rochester is a better place because Helen Pluta walked among us.
Stay Up to Date on our Local Programs
I want to remind folks about two great opportunities to give back and get involved right here in our community.
First, our Valentines for Veterans program is underway. This is a simple but meaningful way to show appreciation for the men and women who have served our country. Handmade cards, notes, and messages of gratitude help remind local veterans that their service is remembered and valued, not just on Valentine’s Day, but every day. Read more here.
I’m also excited to invite students across the district to participate in this year’s Congressional Art Competition. This annual competition is a chance for young artists to showcase their creativity and talent, with the winning artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol for an entire year. It’s always inspiring to see the incredible perspectives and creativity our students bring to their work. Read more here.
For more information on how to participate in either program, please visit my website or contact my office. 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.
January 31, 2026
The scenes we saw out of Minnesota this week were sickening. The recklessness and brutality of the Trump Administration know no bounds. Like so many of you, I am disgusted and I am angry. Read on to hear how I’m fighting back.
How We’re Fighting Back
| The Trump Administration’s aggressive deployment of ICE and Border Patrol agents has led to the needless deaths of U.S. citizens in Minneapolis and underscores the urgent need for accountability, oversight, and a fundamental shift in priorities. I signed on to a Congressional resolution calling for the immediate impeachment of United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem before more innocent lives are destroyed by her cruelty. No one—not ICE agents and certainly not Secretary Noem—should be above the law, and the Secretary must be held responsible for the atrocities committed by her department. Taxpayer dollars should be used to protect our communities, not be used to fuel violence and fear in our streets. I voted ‘NO’ on a funding measure for DHS, and I will continue to do so until meaningful change and respect for the rule of law are restored. We can never give up on the fight to ensure safety, freedom, and justice for all. |
| Fighting for Our Democracy |
| In the aftermath of these tragic events, instead of protecting the American people, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi is playing political games. In a letter to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz following last weekend’s shooting, she demanded access to state voter records, including sensitive, constitutionally protected information, as a condition for federal cooperation in removing ICE from the state. |
| The Trump Administration’s blatant attempt to hold our democracy hostage by weaponizing our elections is unacceptable. I’m demanding a joint hearing with Attorney General Bondi and Secretary Noem on their use of federal law enforcement to shake down the state of Minnesota in service of the President’s political interests. Read more: Top House Dems Demand Joint Hearing with Bondi, Noem Following DOJ, DHS Clear Abuse of Power in Minnesota |
Defending Access to Affordable Healthcare
I held a press conference this week to share the story of Lauren Goetz, a local small business owner whose healthcare premiums rose by nearly 350% in 2026 due to the expiration of the Affordable Care Act Enhanced Premium Tax Credits.
Hard-working small business owners like Lauren are being forced into impossible choices because Senate Republicans and the Trump Administration failed to act—choices between their health and the businesses they worked their whole lives to build. Health insurance should never be the reason a small business closes, jobs disappear, or vital community services are lost.
The House has already passed a bipartisan extension of these tax credits, and now the Senate and the Trump Administration must do their jobs and deliver relief before stories like Lauren’s become commonplace.
Valentines for Veterans
At a time when there is so much pain and chaos in our country, it’s important to lean into opportunities to spread goodness, when we can. I invite you to help spread some love to the brave veterans across our region by participating in our annual Valentines for Veterans! Send in valentines or homemade cards to our office by February 11th and help us show our gratitude for their service—past and present.
How to participate:
- Grab your art supplies or write a note to a local veteran.
- Please mail or drop off your valentines at our office by appointment at 255 East Ave, Suite 150, Rochester, NY 14604.
- If you plan to drop off your valentines, please contact Carly Bird at 585-232-4850 Ext. 6, or Carly.Bird@mail.house.gov to make an appointment.
January 24, 2026
What is happening in communities around the country right now is unacceptable. Here’s a look at how we’re continuing the fight for justice and our democracy.
How We’re Fighting Back
This week, I voted ‘NO’ on a bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). I cannot support legislation that would further empower and administration carrying out immoral and cruel immigration actions that undermine the Constitution and the rule of law.
This bill disrespects the memory of Renee Good, and the many families harmed by the chaos of the Trump administration’s immigration policies, including the family of a five-year-old who was detained by ICE in Minnesota this week.
I will continue to oppose efforts that give Donald Trump more power to abuse the system.
Getting Dark Money Out of Politics
It’s been sixteen years since the Citizens United decision weakened our democracy by putting corporations over people. We need to end Citizens United, limit the influence of special interests, and end the era of dark money in politics.
I also sat down with my friend Tiffany Mueller from End Citizens United to discuss this anniversary and our shared work to put the power of our democracy back into the hands of the people.
53 Years Since Roe v. Wade
This week also marked 53 years since the historic Roe v. Wade decision, and over three years since the Supreme Court stripped it away.
I met with Planned Parenthood of Central and Western New York President and CEO Michelle Casey to talk about what this loss has meant for women, families, and communities nationwide. Americans are being denied the care they need, forced to travel long distances, or put at serious risk for making deeply personal medical decisions.
Welcoming Our Newest NTID President
It was an honor to welcome the newest President of the National Technical Institute for the Deaf, Caroline Solomon to Washington this week!
I look forward to working with Dr. Solomon and the entire NTID team to support our vibrant Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing communities.
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.
Until next week,
Joe Morelle
New York’s 25th Congressional District
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.