Posts from Rep. Joe Morelle

December 6, 2025

I was back in Washington this week after the Thanksgiving holiday, continuing my work to fight for our community in Congress.

I also joined Way Too Early with Ali Vitali this week to discuss the affordability crisis families in our country are facing.

Sending Off Our Fall Intern Class

As the fall semester comes to an end, I want to say a big thank you and congratulations to our outstanding Rochester and DC intern teams. Their hard work and dedication have made a real impact over the last few months.

During their program, these students learned about the legislative process, took part in day-to-day office work, and acquired skills needed to launch a career in public service. Many years ago, I began my career in public service as an intern and found it to be a valuable and rewarding experience. I know these talented students will go on to do extraordinary things. I wish them the best of luck and look forward to seeing all they accomplish.

In Case You Missed It

I hope everyone in our community had a great Thanksgiving surrounded by loved ones and good food. As you may have seen on my social media channels, I spent some time in the kitchen this year prepping my mom’s Italian stuffing.

As promised, I’m sharing the Morelle family recipe. It’s a favorite in my household, and I hope you’ll enjoy it, too.

We’re Here to Help

I’m proud of the work my constituent services team does every day to help members of our community navigate federal agencies, access important resources, and secure money owed to them. This year alone, we have returned over $12 million. Some of the most common areas where we can assist include:

United States Passports
Veterans and Military Service
Working with the IRS
Social Security and Medicare
Congressional Internships
Washington, D.C. Services

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.

How We’re Fighting Back

I joined This Morning with Audie Cornish on CNN this week to talk about the unprecedented corruption we are seeing within the Trump administration. They continue to shift blame and avoid accountability for their actions. The Trump administration has not been transparent about their strikes on boats in the Caribbean. President Trump claims to be focused on combating drug trafficking; instead, he’s turned around and pardoned a convicted drug lord. The American people deserve honesty and transparency; Donald Trump has given them anything but.

November 29, 2025

As we head into the holiday season and approach the end of 2025, I’m sharing a few quick tips and trusted resources to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

‘Tis the Season…For Holiday Scams

Each year, the holiday season brings families together with a renewed spirit of kindness and giving, but it also brings a rise in scams, especially those targeting older Americans.

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), older adults lose an estimated $3 billion annually to scams, with an uptick during the holidays due to fake charities, fraudulent online shopping deals, and Medicare-related phishing schemes. These crimes deeply affect our sense of security, trust, and well-being—and it’s important we know how to recognize the warning signs and stop these threats. To learn more about common scams, how to avoid them, and some helpful tools to keep you and your family safe, watch my video below or visit the FTC’s website.

November 22, 2025

Each week brings new challenges in Washington, but my focus remains the same: standing up for integrity, transparency, and the people I serve. Read on to hear about my work this week.

How We’re Fighting Back

Last week, Senate Republicans snuck a corrupt bargain into their funding bill that provides millions of dollars in payouts to just eight Republican U.S. Senators, funded by taxpayers. This kind of self-serving, self-dealing, one-sided get-rich-quick scheme is why Americans are so disgusted with this Republican Congress. I led the debate on a piece of legislation that would repeal the provision. If these Republican senators genuinely believe their civil liberties were violated, or if they are interested in changing the law relating to subpoenas, then they are better positioned than literally anyone on Earth to hold hearings, draft legislation, and debate proposed changes in the open. But that’s not what this is about. This is about ensuring the law applies to everyone else—just not to them.

It’s part of a broader pattern: the weaponization of the Department of Justice and U.S. Treasury to reward allies and punish perceived enemies.

Taking Action for Survivors

Over the last several months, the Trump administration has attempted to distract, distort, and take away from the release of the Epstein files. This week, I voted to pass a bill that will require them to release materials related to the investigation and prosecution of Jeffrey Epstein. Americans have the right to know the truth and the right to hold people accountable in positions of power. That’s why I voted to release the Epstein files. I hope this week’s vote starts the process in earnest.

Rooting Out Corruption

I support banning Members of Congress from trading stocks. That ban should extend to the President, Vice President, and Supreme Court. The cost of corruption is passed down to Americans, and it has to stop.

As the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, I led a hearing entitled “Taking Stock of the STOCK Act” this week, where we discussed the work that needs to be done to restore public trust in our institutions. That trust must be earned and kept by holding ourselves to the highest standard of conduct possible.

Keeping Up With the Headlines

On Monday, I joined CNN This Morning with Audie Cornish to talk about legislation to force the release of the Epstein files, the healthcare crisis, and my work to fight back against the Trump administration’s actions and stand up for hardworking families.

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.

November 15, 2025

This week, the Republican majority advanced a funding deal that fails to do what matters most: bring down the crushing cost of health care for working people. I voted no.

Sadly, my Republican colleagues continue to be more focused on fulfilling Donald Trump’s whims and pleasing their billionaire donors than on making Americans’ lives better. Once again, the President has used fear, hatred, and cruelty to get what he wants.

At its heart, this bill fails millions of American families who now face massive increases in their health insurance premiums. Mr. President, how are they supposed to survive that? There is a long way to go, and we must find a bipartisan solution before it’s too late.

How We’re Fighting Back

Americans are losing faith in their government because of corruption in Washington, especially under the Trump administration. That was made clear throughout this historic shutdown and the ongoing chaos President Trump creates. Trump has chosen over and over again to put his interests above those of the American people, and as a result, our credibility is being questioned in a way it hasn’t been before in our nation’s history.

I’m leading the fight to root out corruption in our government, and I sat down with Tiffany Muller, President of End Citizens United, to talk about the work we’re doing to ensure our government is one of the people, by the people, and for the people.

November 8, 2025

At 38 days, we are officially in the longest government shutdown in U. S. history. The Trump administration continues to put political games ahead of the American people. On Tuesday, voters made it very clear they are done with the chaos, corruption, and cruelty that Donald Trump runs on. It’s time for the president to listen. This week, I was in Rochester, focused on defending the people and principles that make our community strong and continuing to fight for fairness and accountability.

How We’re Fighting Back

The Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) is a proven program that reduces organized crime and keeps dangerous narcotics off our streets. Despite its decades-long record of success, OCDETF was cut from President Trump’s budget. The administration claims it’s a cost-saving move, but the program nearly offsets its own funding—recovering over $900 million in just the past two years.

In Rochester, OCDETF operations have taken drugs, cash, and firearms off the streets, making our community safer. This week, I introduced the Protect Law Enforcement Task Forces Act, which would prevent the administration from dissolving OCDETF and require a full report to Congress on its proven impact. Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Pushes Back Against Trump Plan to Dismantle Successful Anti-Crime Task Force

Defending the Constitution and our Community

This week, the Supreme Court heard arguments in a major case challenging President Trump’s use of emergency power to impose broad tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). These tariffs have hurt American families, driving up prices and inciting a trade war that does nothing for our communities.

I joined an amicus brief in this case to make my position clear—the Constitution gives Congress, not the president, the authority to impose tariffs. Our brief urges the Court to uphold this fundamental separation of powers and prevent executive overreach that threatens both our economy and our democracy. Read more: House Democrats’ Litigation Task Force Submits Bicameral Amicus Brief to Supreme Court, Challenging Trump’s Unlawful IEEPA Tariffs

Protecting Basic Services for Families

Donald Trump continues to use the American people as hostages in his weaponization of hunger to win political games, threatening to withhold SNAP benefits until he gets his way.

It’s shameful, and our community won’t sit quietly while families go hungry. Tomorrow, I’m joining my partners, County Executive Bello, Mayor Evans, and the team at Foodlink for a food donation drive at Innovation Field to support families in crisis.

Honoring a Local Veteran

This week, I had the privilege of presenting a flag flown over the United States Capitol to Mr. Fred Stenglein, a proud U.S. Marine and veteran of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

Joined by Monroe County Executive Adam Bello and Mr. Stenglein’s family, we honored his extraordinary record of service and sacrifice. Mr. Stenglein, a retired Gunnery Sergeant, represents the quiet strength and enduring courage that have sustained our nation through generations.

This flag symbolizes not only our nation’s ideals of liberty and democracy, but also the profound gratitude we owe to those who defended them. 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.

November 1, 2025

Today marks 31 days since Donald Trump and Republicans stopped working with Democrats and shut down our federal government because they failed to propose a spending plan that actually helps protect American families.

How We’re Fighting Back

Starting tomorrow, November 1st, the Trump administration is withholding $6 billion in reserve funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, effectively cutting SNAP for everyone. Donald Trump is cruelly and inhumanely targeting America’s most vulnerable, holding them hostage if he doesn’t get what he wants. Our community won’t stay silent while families go hungry. This week, I stood with my partners, County Executive Bello, Mayor Evans, and leaders from Foodlink to call out this administration for targeting our seniors, children, and the poor.

An Important Community Conversation

I’m grateful to everyone who joined our community conversation with Dr. Elizabeth Murray this week. As families face increasing uncertainty about guidance from the Department of Health and Human Services and threats to their healthcare coverage, it was important to hear from a local expert on how to keep your family healthy. If you missed the event, a replay is available here, and we hope to have you join us for the next one.

We Want to Hear Your Stories

As we pass one full month of this Republican-led government shutdown, I know many in our community are already feeling the impacts. President Trump’s policies are aimed at the most vulnerable Americans, ripping away healthcare and food assistance. I’m fighting hard to stop this healthcare crisis and reopen the government, and I want to hear from you. What would skyrocketing healthcare costs or lost food assistance mean for your family? How have you been impacted by the government shutdown? Share your story here.

We’re Still Working for You

Despite the government shutdown, my team and I are still hard at work for you. This week, my team met with local members of our Ukrainian community during their visit to Washington. Over the past three years, we’ve seen the tremendous courage of the Ukrainian people on full display, and we must continue to support them in their time of need. I stand firmly with the defenders of Ukraine as they fight to protect their democracy.

Wishing You a Happy Halloween

As our news cycle seems to grow scarier by the day, and so many of us feel frustrated about the state of the world amidst this government shutdown, it’s more important than ever to pause and appreciate the good around us.

I’m wishing you and your families a safe and happy Halloween tonight. I hope this is an opportunity for our community to spend time with loved ones and find joy in the small moments—whether that’s trick-or-treating, passing out candy, or simply laughing together. 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.

October 25, 2025

We’re 24 days into a government shutdown, and we’re still here fighting to protect healthcare access for millions of American families, bring down costs, and support the programs our communities rely on.

Join Our Community Conversation

On Wednesday, October 29th, at 5:00 PM, I’ll be hosting a virtual community conversation to discuss the healthcare crisis and how it will affect our community.

I’ll be joined by pediatric physician, Dr. Elizabeth Murray, who will speak to her experience as a practitioner and what the Republican cuts to American healthcare mean for the medical field. Register and share your questions here.

How We’re Fighting Back

Every child deserves the chance to succeed, but the Trump administration’s recent decision to lay off staff overseeing special education programs threatens that opportunity. These cuts put vital services and $15 billion in support for more than 7.5 million students with disabilities at risk.

That’s why I joined over 100 of my colleagues in urging the administration to reverse this harmful decision. Our students, families, and schools depend on these programs, and I’ll never stop fighting to make sure every child has the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Joins Effort to Counter Trump Administration’s Attacks on Special Education Services

Standing Against Political Violence

When Donald Trump pardoned the violent insurrectionists who stormed the Capitol on January 6th, he unleashed danger on our country. They continue to be a clear and present danger to public safety. This week, a pardoned rioter was arrested for threatening to kill House Minority Leader, my friend, Hakeem Jeffries. It’s clear that President Trump has made us less safe. I’ll continue to stand against political violence and advocate for the rule of law.

Protecting Healthcare Access

If we allow critical healthcare tax credits to expire, families will be forced to choose between getting the care they need and paying their bills. Losing health insurance doesn’t make you immune to illness or injury. It just means that when it happens, you’re forced to take your sick or injured child to the emergency room, waiting 8, 10, even 12 hours—and walking out with a bill that could push you into financial ruin.

Healthcare isn’t a privilege, it’s a necessity. This week, I stood alongside parents Eva Wood and Isabel Rosa from our community to share their stories about the rising costs of healthcare. As a parent, I would move heaven and Earth for my children and grandchildren. And I know every parent in our community feels the same way. I’m fighting to protect vital cost-saving measures and make sure that getting sick or seeking out life-saving care never means going broke.

October 18, 2025

It’s day 17 of the Republican shutdown. My Republican Colleagues have refused to come back to Washington for the last three weeks, even though we’re in the middle of a crisis. Americans’ health insurance premiums are going up by thousands of dollars, and we don’t have a funding bill for the government. It’s past time my colleagues come to the table so we can do our job and take care of the American people.

How We’re Fighting Back

Our democracy depends on a government that’s responsive, reliable, and ready to help its citizens—especially in moments of crisis. I was deeply concerned to hear reports of the Social Security Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, and Internal Revenue Service stopping operations on casework during the government shutdown.

Congressional offices play a critical role in helping Americans navigate federal agencies. This week, I sent a letter to President Trump and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, calling on them to maintain these vital lifelines. Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Leads Effort to Safeguard Critical Services During Government Shutdown

Protecting the Right to Vote

This week, the U.S. Supreme Court heard two pivotal cases that could decide the future of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA). For six decades, the VRA has stood as a cornerstone of American democracy—protecting voters from racial discrimination and ensuring every citizen has a voice at the ballot box.

Now, that promise is under threat. The United States was not a fully functioning democracy prior to 1965, and it will cease to be one should the Supreme Court further demolish the urgent protections of the Voting Rights Act. Our democracy depends on the Court’s courage to uphold the VRA and preserve equal justice for every voter in America. As the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, which oversees federal elections, I won’t stop fighting to strengthen the Voting Rights Act and protect every American’s right to vote.

How We Got Here

Seventeen days into this government shutdown, it’s worth remembering how we got here. Shutdowns are a uniquely American problem. Before the 1980s, a missed budget didn’t mean a full stop, but a legal shift changed that, making “no funding” mean “no function.”

From the short shutdowns under President Reagan, to the 21-day standoff between Speaker Gingrich and President Clinton, to the 16-day closure in 2013 over the Affordable Care Act and the record-breaking 35-day shutdown under President Trump, each episode has come with real costs. We’re here in another Trump shutdown, once again rooted in efforts to slash health care programs and eliminate support that helps families afford coverage, and once again hardworking Americans are paying the price.

Watch here to learn more about how we got here and why it’s time to reopen the government, protect Americans’ health care, and get back to work.

Preparing the Next Generation of Leaders

Even as the shutdown drags on, my office is working hard to create opportunities for the next generation of leaders. Applications for our Spring 2025 program are now open.

We welcome students to both my Washington, D.C., and Rochester district offices each semester to take part in a congressional internship program. Here, students will learn about the legislative process, take part in day-to-day office work, and acquire the skills needed to launch a career in public service. If you or a student you know are interested in joining the program, visit my website for full application details.

Please know my office is always here to help. Despite the government shutdown, my office remains open and working for you. 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.

October 11, 2025

Dear Markus, It’s day 10 of the Republican shutdown. I’ve made it clear, I’m ready to work with anyone who’s serious about reopening the government and protecting Americans’ healthcare, but that means coming to the negotiating table to do the job the American people elected us to do.

In this week’s newsletter, you’ll find updates on how I’m fighting back—standing up for hardworking families, protecting access to essential services, and continuing to show up for our community here at home.

Supporting Hardworking Families

I joined BBC Radio to talk about the ongoing government shutdown over the weekend. I made it clear: my colleagues and I are fighting for the millions of Americans who will be kicked off their health insurance by Republican cuts.

Bringing down health insurance premiums, lowering costs—these are American values, and we’re not going to stop standing up for them.

Marking 115 Years of Faith

While the chaos of the government shutdown continues in Washington, I know that doesn’t stop life from going on here in Rochester. I was grateful to be out in our community and join Mt. Olivet Baptist Church for their walk-a-thon in honor of their 115th anniversary. For well over a century, Mt. Olivet has served as a beacon of strength and hope in Rochester, and I was proud to present them with a certificate of congressional recognition in honor of this remarkable milestone.

Honoring our Veterans

This past weekend, I had the profound honor of joining local veterans for an Honor Flight ceremony—an inspiring tribute to the brave men and women who have served our nation. The Honor Flight program provides veterans with a journey to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice.

I was deeply moved by this powerful moment of gratitude and reflection, standing alongside our community to celebrate the courage, dedication, and unity that define the American spirit. Together, we honor those who have given so much in defense of our freedom.

Learn more about Rochester’s Honor Flight here.

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