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Posts from Rep. Joe Morelle

May 17, 2025

I spent this week in D.C. defending truth, accountability, and the rule of law while House Republicans pushed for a destructive budget that aims to cut 13.7 million Americans from Medicaid and slash nutrition and other vital services. 

As President Trump once again tries to consolidate power, my colleagues and I are fighting back.  Read more below: 

How We’re Fighting Back

Last week, President Trump abruptly fired a patriotic public servant and the Librarian of Congress, Dr. Carla Hayden. Dr. Hayden has spent her entire career serving people—from helping kids learn to read to protecting some of our nation’s most precious treasures. His decision is a complete disgrace. 

Trump then went on to unlawfully terminate the Register of Copyrights, Shira Perlmutter, just a day after she refused to rubber-stamp Elon Musk’s efforts to mine troves of copyrighted works to train AI models. 

We cannot stand by and allow Trump’s continued power-hungry assault on the legislative branch. This week I led a request to the Library of Congress Inspector General seeking an investigation into potential improper communications between the executive branch and the Library of Congress and I will be introducing legislation to guarantee that the Librarian of Congress is appointed by Congress. Read more here.

Protecting Hardworking Families

I recently joined my fellow lawmakers in filing an amicus brief to stop the Trump administration’s unlawful attempt to dismantle the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).  

Created after the 2008 crisis, the CFPB has returned over $21 billion to more than 200 million Americans. I’m standing up to defend this critical agency, protect working families, and uphold our constitutional checks and balances. Learn more here.

Investing in Community Safety

This week I joined County Executive Bello to announce a $4.2 million investment in public safety, expanded career opportunities for our community, and preparation or moments of crisis. 

This funding will support a training program which will develop the next generation of EMTs and paramedics in Monroe County. I’m proud to work with my local government partners to invest in the services that keep our neighbors healthy and safe. 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.

May 10, 2025

As families continue to grapple with rising costs and growing uncertainty fueled by the Trump administration’s reckless actions, I’m fighting in Congress to protect our community and the values we cherish.

How We’re Fighting Back

Rather than working to bring down the cost of living for folks just trying to make ends meet, President Trump is attacking our economy and the livelihoods of American families to pay for tax cuts for billionaires. On Wednesday night, I joined NewsNation’s On Balance with Leland Vittert to talk about the economic chaos caused by the Trump administration, how it’s hurting families in our community, and what I’m doing to fight back.

Watch my interview here. President Trump deepened his assault on our government institutions and programs by calling for a $1 trillion cut to Medicaid and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), programs thousands of Rochester families rely on to survive.

If enacted, this would have devastating consequences on seniors, children, and families who rely on these programs to receive basic health care and put food on the table. We must fight back against the Trump Administration’s repeated efforts to undermine the well-being of our community, which is why I’m proud to co-sponsor The Hands Off Medicaid and SNAP Act, legislation to protect these programs from being cut during the Congressional budget process.

Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Stands Up for Medicaid, Food Assistance Program

As a member of the Litigation/Response Task Force, I also signed on to an amicus brief challenging the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education. I will keep fighting to support our public education system and the tens of millions of students and teachers that rely on it.Read the full brief here.

Supporting Our Educators

This week we marked Teacher Appreciation Week, celebrating the extraordinary work teachers do every day to support and educate our youth. But we must honor their efforts with action, not just words—which is why this week I introduced the Developing and Advancing Innovative Learning Models Act. This legislation would create a federal investment in the research and development of Innovative Learning Models to enable schools to adapt to modern educational needs and send a clear signal that America is focused on educating our future leaders.

Our action is urgently needed as the Trump administration makes drastic cuts to critical student and teacher resources. I look forward to working with my colleagues to better support our teachers and ensure our students are college and career ready.

Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Authors Legislation to Support Teachers, Put More Students on Path to Success

Holding the Trump Administration Accountable

When asked by a reporter whether or not the president is responsible for upholding the Constitution of the United States, President Trump answered, “I don’t know.” This answer is deeply concerning because on Inauguration Day, Donald Trump swore a clear oath to “preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.” So this week, when I had the opportunity to question FBI Director Kash Patel during a House Appropriations Subcommittee hearing, I asked him about the president’s response and what he thinks his duty is as a member of the federal government.

Welcoming Organizations to Washington

My office hosted a Constituent Coffee Hour in Washington, where we welcomed organizations and stakeholders from Rochester, New York State, and all across the country! It was great to connect over coffee and donuts and hear directly from people on the issues most important to them. Their dedication to uplifting our Rochester community inspires my work in Congress—and together, we’re building a stronger region for all.

If you or your organization are interested in signing up for our next event, feel free to reach out to 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.

May 3, 2025

This week marked the first 100 days of the Trump administration. In his first 100 days, President Trump has wiped trillions in value from our stock market, raised costs for hardworking families, cut critical funding for community organizations, and threatened free and fair elections in America.

In short, he’s broken the promises upon which Americans elected him.

The U.S. Department of Commerce has reported that, in the first quarter of this year, the U.S. economy has shrunk for the first time in three years. Groceries are more expensive, and retirement savings are deteriorating—all to make room for massive tax cuts for the wealthy elite. We cannot let this stand.

How We’re Fighting Back

As your Representative, I am supporting ongoing legal challenges in federal court to adjudicate and strike down the Trump administration’s unconstitutional actions.

In Washington, I am working tirelessly with my colleagues to develop legislative and policy solutions to restore balance, protect our most vulnerable, and hold the administration accountable.

We’re fighting back through litigation, legislation, and advocacy for the communities that are counting on us. For an updated list of actions I’ve taken to fight back, visit my website here.

Tom Homan’s Visit to Rochester

The immigration policies being pushed by the Trump administration are inhumane, illegal, and antithetical to the values America has always stood for. We all want secure borders and safe communities—but ripping apart families and deporting American citizens does nothing to accomplish that goal.

How does deporting a four-year-old undergoing treatment for metastatic cancer make America any safer? How does deporting a two-year-old reduce crime? It doesn’t. It’s just cruel. Instead of using Rochester as a prop to make a political statement, Tom Homan should focus on following the rule of law and actually doing his job.

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.

April 26, 2025

I was back in Rochester this week, continuing my fight against the Trump administration’s dangerous actions. As top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, I’ve been speaking out against the SAVE Act, which would disenfranchise millions of Americans, and President Trump’s Executive Order on Elections. Here at home, I convened a group of community leaders to talk about the consequences of the SAVE Act and discuss how I’m using my leadership role to defend our democracy.

The Trump administration continues to pursue a dangerous trade war, creating an uncertain stock market and leaving small businesses right here in Rochester vulnerable. I’m cosponsoring the Prevent Tariff Abuse Act to protect our businesses and ensure our economy’s stability.

How We’re Fighting Back

As a parent and a grandparent, I’m deeply troubled by the Trump administration’s dangerous vaccine skepticism. Far too many families are being misled by disinformation campaigns that erode public trust in science.

It’s been over 20 years—2003, to be exact—since a child in our country died from measles. At just four months into this year, two children have already died.

This week, I joined community health leaders and experts in a call to push back against disinformation, reaffirm our commitment to science, and ensure families have the support they need to keep their children safe.

Vaccination rates remain far below what’s needed to ensure herd immunity, and when vaccination rates fall, the risk rises for all of us. Our children’s future depends on the choices we make today—whether we stand with our doctors and our neighbors, and for the health of our kids. Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Fights Back Against Trump Administration’s Dangerous Anti-Health Agenda

Connecting With Older Americans

It was great to be with seniors from the St. Ann’s Living Community for an important conversation on what’s happening in Washington and how I’m working to protect their hard-earned benefits and financial security—particularly Social Security and Medicare. As the Trump administration puts these vital services at risk, I’m fighting to make sure older Americans can age with dignity and security by supporting legislation to strengthen Social Security and ensure it remains solvent, and bring down healthcare costs through drug price negotiation for high-cost medications.

Supporting Monroe County’s Leaders in Education

I joined my friends at Monroe Community College this week for the groundbreaking of their new Advanced Technologies Center. This building will help make sure students have the skills they need to thrive—skills that will ultimately drive our economy and benefit our community. I was proud to have secured $3.5 million in federal funding to help make this project a reality, and I will continue to push for federal investment to support important educational opportunities like this.

Celebrating the History of Rochester’s Artistic Community

The Rochester Community Players Theater Group is celebrating their 100th season! For a full century, this group has been a cornerstone of Rochester’s artistic community, and I was grateful for the opportunity to celebrate their legacy with an entry into the Congressional Record.

I stopped by this week to meet the talented individuals who carry this legacy forward and present them with the Congressional Record.

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.

April 19, 2025

Since President Trump took office in January, we have seen an all-out assault on the core values of American Democracy. The Trump administration has issued dangerous and illegal Executive Orders, pursued a reckless trade war with our closest allies, and supported legislation that would disenfranchise millions of American voters. There has never been a more important moment to stand up for our community and our nation.  
 
I’m fighting back through litigation, legislation, and advocacy for the programs and resources our neighbors rely on.  Hear more about my work over the past few weeks with my weekly wrap-up.

We’re Here for You

Every day, my office works tirelessly to help members of our community navigate federal agencies, access important resources, and secure money owed to them. So far this year, my team has already resolved over 213 cases and returned over $3.2 million owed to local businesses and members of our community. 

It’s a privilege to be able to assist our community and the individuals and organizations who call it home. 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

April 13, 2025

1. How We’re Fighting Back

Just three weeks ago, RFK Jr. renewed the public health emergency for our country’s opioid epidemic. Now, alongside President Trump, he’s slashed $11 billion in funding for addiction and mental health programs. These cuts will shutter life-saving resources families depend on. 

This week, I stood with County Executive Bello and the incredible team at Delphi Rise—our community’s only 24-hour, open-access addiction treatment center—to speak out against these harmful cuts. Without action, Delphi Rise is at risk of closing its doors. 

In response, Monroe County is stepping up. Plans are underway to direct $405,000 from its opioid settlement fund to keep this critical facility open. 

I’m deeply grateful to County Executive Bello and all our community partners as we move quickly to protect access to treatment. No one facing addiction should be left alone in their darkest moments. Read more here.

2. Defending the American Right to Vote

This week House Republicans voted to pass the disastrous so-called SAVE Act. This legislation will make it harder for millions of American citizens to register to vote and is yet another example of the Trump administration’s move towards authoritarianism.  I led the debate on the house floor against this legislation where I outlined how it will place costly and confusing new hurdles in front of everyday voters—including married women, active-duty military members, and more—while doing nothing to address real issues in our elections. As the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, which oversees federal elections, I’m committed to fighting this legislation every step of the way and protecting every American’s right to vote. 

2. Protecting the Critical LIHEAP Program

No one should ever be forced to choose between heating their home and affording food or medication. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) has helped thousands of families in our community stay warm through harsh winters. 

Despite how essential this program is, the Trump administration recently fired the entire 25-person team responsible for administering LIHEAP—putting billions in federal assistance at risk.

This week, I joined my colleagues in urging RFK Jr. to immediately reverse this decision. Families across the country are counting on this support. Read the full letter here.

3. Supporting our Hardworking Students

Nearly 1 in 5 undergraduate students lives with a disability, and too many are forced to leave school because of financial roadblocks. At a time when the Trump administration is trying to dismantle our education system, I’m committed to finding bipartisan solutions that give every student the opportunity to thrive. 

 
This week, I reintroduced my legislation, the Pell Grant Flexibility Act, which would lower the number of credit hours required for Pell Grants for students with disabilities and allow for adjustments that give them the support necessary to earn their degree at the pace that works for them.  Read more: Congressman Morelle Redoubles Commitment to Affordable Higher Education for All

4. Connecting With Our Community

Thank you to everyone who joined my virtual town hall this week to discuss how we’re fighting back against the dangerous actions of the Trump administration. Your participation is key, and I am incredibly grateful for the engagement from our community.
 
My office has received thousands of calls regarding the Trump administration’s actions. If you have a question or concern, I want to hear from you. Use this form to submit your questions, and I’ll be answering them on social media and in future newsletters. 

April 6, 2025

This week, we’ve seen yet another wave of reckless decisions from the Trump Administration—decisions that threaten access to health care, attack voting rights, and undermine the services our communities rely on. But we’re not just standing by—my colleagues and I are fighting back.

How We’re Fighting Back

This week, the Trump Administration froze tens of millions of dollars for the Title X program, our nation’s only federal program dedicated to family planning. Title X provides affordable birth control and reproductive health care to millions of people each year. This isn’t budget-cutting. It’s a full-on assault on reproductive rights.

I joined my colleagues in a letter to RFK Jr. urging all appropriated funding for Title X to be restored. This program has helped people access essential health care for almost 50 years—we cannot allow this Administration’s reckless and dangerous cuts to rip that care away.

Read the full letter here.

Defending the American Right to Vote


Over the past two months, we’ve seen the Trump Administration take a hatchet to the programs and services working families rely on. Now, they’re coming after the very foundation of American democracy: our elections.

The so-called SAVE Act, is voter suppression, plain and simple. It would restrict voting access for eligible American citizens in a sweeping, unjustified effort to disenfranchise American voters under the false banner of “election security.” House Republicans failed this week in their attempt to jeopardize voting rights, and I’m grateful the SAVE Act is no closer to becoming law, but this fight isn’t over. As the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, I’m standing up for every eligible American’s right to vote—no exceptions.

Meeting With a Key Rochester Resource

Pathstone works tirelessly in our community to provide workforce development programs, educational resources, and innovative solutions to the affordable housing crisis affecting our nation. Their mission supports families and individuals all over Rochester. I was grateful to be joined by the Pathstone team in Washington this week to talk about how we can work together to uplift our community.

We Want to Hear From You

Over the past three months, my office has received thousands of calls regarding the Trump Administration’s actions. I know people in our community are scared and angry, and I want to hear your concerns.

If you have a question for my office, please share it with us through this form linked here. I’ll be answering these questions on social media and in this newsletter. 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 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.

2 Comments

    • CNYDems

      Thanks for the feedback. I am up-dating posts by Joe Morelle and Kirsten Gillibrand weekly.

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