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942 WORDS | 7.2 MINUTE READ
Hi John,
I hope you had a meaningful and restorative Independence Day. I spent it surrounded by friends and family celebrating this one-of-a-kind country and reflecting on everything that unites us. Freedom is fragile, so let’s channel our shared love for America to protect the good it stands for. With that, here’s an update from my busy week in Minnesota:
Honoring Vietnam-era Veterans
I meet a lot of Vietnam-era veterans who have complicated perspectives about their service and their experience returning home. That's why I’ve been holding pinning ceremonies for Vietnam-era veterans in our community through my partnership with the Vietnam War Commemoration Program. This was our sixth such commemoration, where we recognized eight Vietnam-era veterans and surviving family members. The event was held in Anoka, and each honoree received official lapel pins as a small token of our nation’s gratitude.
The stories shared at these ceremonies are moving and unforgettable, and they serve as constant reminders of the heavy burden carried by those sent off to fight for our country. As a Gold Star Son and grateful American, I’ll continue working to ensure all veterans and military families receive the benefits they’ve earned and are appropriately recognized for their service.
Going On the Job(s)
Last week, I went On the Job with a crew from the Anoka Public Works Department to fill potholes and learn more about the behind-the-scenes work they do each day. From snow removal to water quality to maintaining city infrastructure, and everything in between, our dedicated public works employees do a lot. While they showed me the ropes, I talked to the team about how I can support them in Congress - and why teamwork at the city, county, state, and federal level is so critical when it comes to maintaining our infrastructure.
I also picked up a shift at Juut Salon Spa in Wayzata. Between greeting customers, cleaning up after cuts, and mixing hair color, I talked with their team about the challenges they face and how policymakers at the federal level can better help small businesses like theirs succeed. It was another memorable visit, and I left feeling inspired by their work ethic and exceptional customer service.
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| It was great to join the Juut team to learn more about running a salon, thanks for having me! |
Innovation in our Backyard
Our community is home to more medical technology businesses than any other in Minnesota. These businesses create jobs, support our economy, and improve health outcomes, which is why I was so thrilled to visit Bracco Medical Technologies last week. Based in Eden Prairie, Bracco has developed innovative contrast injection systems for medical imaging. After a tour of their impressive facility and a demonstration of their technology, I convened a mini town hall with employees to answer questions and hear about their insightful ideas on how we can encourage more bipartisanship and civility in our nation’s discourse.
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| Visiting Bracco Medical Technologies and seeing their incredible technology firsthand was one of the highlights of my week. |
Bringing Our Tax Dollars Home
I’m a longtime supporter of clean energy, and I recognize its critical role in combating climate change and growing our economy. That's why helped pass the bipartisan Infrastructure Investments and Jobs law in November 2021, which paves the way for our transition to a green economy. This year, I partnered with the Met Council to successfully secure a $17.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA), fueled by the bipartisan infrastructure law. More clean, zero-emission buses are on their way to the Twin Cities communities that need them most!
Connecting with Seniors
I had the honor of speaking to a wonderfully engaged group of residents at Walker Methodist Plaza Senior Community in Anoka. During our town hall conversation, I gave an overview of my work in Congress and answered their insightful questions. Seniors are the stewards of our community’s history, which is why meeting with them, answering their questions, and listening to their perspectives is always worthwhile.
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| If you or someone you know lives in a senior living community, I'd love to visit, so drop me a line! |
An Appalling Attack
As a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, I believe that we must advocate for human rights, democracy, and diplomacy at home and abroad. That's why I am so disgusted by the attack on innocent Palestinians in Jenin. Israel has a duty to defend its citizens against terrorists and ensure the perpetrators are held to account - not doing so would undermine their moral credibility. The cycle of bloodshed must cease, and I pray that Israelis and Palestinians empower a new generation to lead and live side-by-side in peace and prosperity.
Keep the faith, and keep in touch,
Dean Phillips
Member of Congress
 Bill of the Week
✔️ SCOTUS Rulings
Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court ended their term by rejecting the use of affirmative action in college admissions, striking down the President’s plan to forgive student loan debt, and issued a major blow to LGBTQ+ equality. At a time when Americans’ faith in governmental institutions is already painfully low, I believe these recent decisions further erode what little faith remains. The Supreme Court interprets our Constitution and laws, but Congress has the power to change them. If you disagree with the recent decision by the Court, I invite you to join me in pushing for legislation that restores protections and ensures they are accountable to the people.
 Resources For You
My team and I are here to serve every person and every corner of our community. I want to make sure you have the resources you need to succeed:
- Donuts with Dean: Welcoming Minnesotans to Washington is one of my favorite parts of this job. We'd love the opportunity share some conversation, and donuts, next time you’re in town! To reserve your spot at an upcoming event, please complete this form, including all attendee information and the date of your preferred session.
- Energy Savings Hub: The U.S. Department of Energy has launched a one-stop shop for American families and consumers to access tools to cut energy costs through rebates and energy efficient upgrades. Click here for a list of green tax credits and other rebates.
- Look before you book: Do you have international travel plans on the horizon? Make sure you are prepared before you book! Visit https://travel.state.gov/ to check your passport expiration date, apply for a passport, and much more.
- The Congressional app challenge is back: Calling all middle and high school coders - are you innovative, creative, and driven to solve problems? Then the Congressional App Challenge is for you! Registration is open, so head to my website to learn more.
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