Dear Friend,

Today is a solemn day - marking three years since the violent assault on the Capitol and our democracy. For me, January 6th will forever be known as a day of remembrance, reflection, and recommitment. 

I remember how the simple act of certifying the results of the most secure election of our lifetimes was interrupted by a violent insurrection. I remember how ‘the light’ - acts of courage small and large - defeated darkness. Heroes – staffers, custodians, police. I will remember those who quite literally gave their lives that day.

I reflect on being trapped up in the House gallery, praying for safety and peace in our nation, and I reflect on how close we came to losing our democracy that day. January 6th was about so much more than an effort to break into the Capitol – it was an effort to break down our institutions.

On this day and every day, I recommit myself to protecting our democracy because the future of our nation depends on it. 

Remember. Reflect. Recommit.

This Week in Delaware

Preparing for Winter Weather

Delaware is expected to receive some winter weather this weekend, so I wanted to be sure to share some tips on how to stay safe and prepared.

Additionally, the Delaware Emergency Management Agency and the Delaware Department of Transportation, along with the National Weather Service, have put together a list of steps you can take: 

• Stay informed about current weather, winter storm forecasts, travel advisories, and warnings.

• Sign up for the Delaware Emergency Notification System (DENS) at de.gov/dens to learn about emergency closings or hazardous conditions.

• Download the FEMA Mobile App and set up local alerts.

• Dress in layers appropriate for the conditions and learn the signs of hypothermia and frostbite.

• If possible, avoid traveling by car. However, if driving, be prepared for snow and icy conditions that can impact roadways. Check ahead on road conditions with the free DelDOT mobile app.

• Build and stock a basic emergency kit and vehicle emergency kit. Learn how at PrepareDE.org.

• Prepare your home and car for extreme cold temperatures, such as weatherproofing your house and winterizing your vehicle by checking or replacing lights, tires, wiper blades, and other items.

• Preparedness takes a team: “buddy up” to help those with access and functional needs.

• Bring pets or animals in during winter storms and freezing temperatures and stock pet supplies.

Service Academy Nominations Announced

This week, I announced the 26 students who I have nominated for admission to one of our nation’s prestigious service academies – the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, NY; the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, NY. Serving our country in uniform requires courage and a commitment to a higher purpose, and I know that these 26 students represent the best and the brightest of those who are ready to answer the call to serve. You can read more about the announcement here.

NEWS: Cost of Living Adjustment for Social Security Recipients

More than 250,000 seniors in Delaware will see a 3.2% increase in their next Social Security check! This is due to a recent Cost-of-Living-Adjustment for 2024.

For more information on the COLA, please click here. If you have additional questions, please know that you are always welcome to call my office to speak with a member of my team.

REMINDER: Sign Up for Health Care Coverage by January 15!

Delawareans still looking to purchase health insurance coverage for 2024 through the Marketplace have until January 15, 2024, to do so for coverage starting February 1, 2024. In 2022, nearly 35,000 Delawareans signed up for health insurance on Delaware’s marketplace, the highest number yet. You can get more information at healthcare.gov or choosehealthde.com.

This week’s constituent corner is for the Delaware chapters of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – one of the members of Divine 9! Friday marked the 113th Founders’ Day of Kappa Alpha Psi and the Delaware chapters continue to make an impact on our communities up and down the First State through their service. I was so proud to be the keynote speaker at the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity’s 93rd Northeastern Province Council Meeting in Wilmington last year where I thanked them for their continued service. Happy Founders’ Day!

Yours in service,

Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester

Member of Congress

Below are some helpful resources for you! As always, if you’re ever in need of assistance with federal agencies, please contact my office. My team and I are here to serve you!

• Lower Energy Costs: Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act that I helped pass last Congress, there are more opportunities than ever before to lower your energy costs through tax credits and rebates. Check out energy.gov/save to learn more. 

• Free COVID-19 Tests: Delaware households can still claim 4 FREE COVID-19 tests at covid.gov. 

• Look Before You Book: Are you thinking about booking a trip? Before you do, you should ensure that your passport is up-to-date! You can go to travel.state.gov to check your passport expiration date, apply for a new passport, and more.

• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988, the 24/7, free and confidential support Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also go to 988lifeline.org.

• Delaware 211: Delawareans in need of emergency housing, utility assistance, food assistance, and more, call 211, Delaware’s free, confidential resource hotline.

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