Celebrating Independence Day 

Tomorrow, we celebrate America's independence. On Independence Day, we celebrate our country, the greatest in the world, and the values that our founders put forth on July 4, 1776 - liberty and freedom. As we gather with family and friends, we should all take a moment to remember what Independence Day means to us as a nation. 

Our country, and our flag, are symbols of democracy and freedom around the world. Nearly 250 years later, the stars and stripes remain a beacon of hope and opportunity. 

Our ability to celebrate our independence year after year is because of the brave men and women who defend our freedom at home and abroad. We live in the greatest country in the world and it is because of our men and women in the military. Please continue to keep those sacrificing their holiday so we can celebrate ours in your thoughts.

I wish everyone throughout Illinois a healthy and safe July 4th, and I encourage everyone to take a moment this week to look at the American flag and think about what it means to them.

Opening a new congressional office in Morris

I am excited to partner with State Senator Tom Bennett to open a district office in Morris. The IL16 constituent service office in Grundy County will provide east-central Illinois residents with a resource to receive assistance with the federal government and support our constituent engagement efforts. I look forward to continue working with Senator Bennett, State Senator Sue Rezin, State Representative Jed Davis, and State Representative Jason Bunting to represent Morris and Grundy County.

Read more: Morris Herald News: LaHood, Bennett open new district office in Morris

Discussing the latest news on WMAY

I joined Greg Bishop on WMAY last week to discuss the latest news, including the IRS whistleblower transcripts in the Hunter Biden case, the southern border crisis, and the President's visit to Illinois. 

Visiting with 16th District constituents

Thank you to McHenry County Board Chairman Michael Buehler and McHenry County Administrator Peter Austin for meeting with me last week. We had a good discussion about economic development opportunities in McHenry County and ways the federal government can continue to help strengthen the community.

I was in Roscoe last week to visit with village officials to discuss plans for the Main Street Corridor economic development and other priorities. Thanks to Village President Carol Gustafson, Village Administrator Scott Sanders, and Village Trustee Mike Wright for hosting us.

Great to visit Kaney Aerospace in Rockford to learn more about their operations. Jeff and the Kaney Team do a remarkable job designing and manufacturing aeronautics products to support the commercial and defense aircraft industry.

I appreciate all they do in Winnebago County!

Thank you to Hildebrandt Farms in South Beloit for showing me around their farm last week! Dairy farmers are vital to the economy in northern Illinois. As we work on the upcoming Farm Bill, I will continue to advocate for our ag community in IL16.
 

I visited the Rockford Park District to discuss the equestrian facility they are building that will support mental health therapy for kids in the community. I appreciate the work the Rockford Park District does to support youth and physical activity. Thank you to Jay Sandine and Jennifer Bowman for hosting us!

In Elmwood, we announced federal funding and unveiled plans for the new Elmwood Rural Health and Wellness Center with Graham Medical Group and the YMCA. My office was proud to help secure Community Project Funding for the center, which will support better health outcomes and physical activity in our rural communities.

Read more: WEEK 25: Elmwood prepares for a new health and wellness center for the surrounding rural communities

I visited the Galena ARC in Jo Daviess County to tour their facilities! For over 50 years, they have served the community, supporting early education, childcare, arts, and recreation for families and children. Thank you to Dave Decker and Brenda Jakel for the tour!

I had a great roundtable with the Jo Daviess County Farm Bureau! Our farmers in northwestern Illinois help feed and fuel our communities and state. On the Ways and Means Committee, I will continue to advocate for the needs of farmers and support the ag industry in IL16.

As always, thanks for subscribing to my newsletter! Enjoy the 4th!

Sincerely,

Darin LaHood
Member of Congress