ANTISEMITIC, ANTI-ISRAEL VIOLENCE HITS THE STREETS OF PORTLAND

In the wake of Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel on October 7, it’s been disturbing to watch antisemitic and anti-Israel protests erupt across the country. This week, an all-too-familiar scene unfolded in the streets of Portland, when rioters took to the streets – damaging businesses, destroying police vehicles, and trespassing and vandalizing Portland State University.

First, I want to recognize and thank Portland Police for coordinating with administrators and local leaders to stop the unlawful demonstration of hate and discrimination at Portland State University. There's a line between free speech and lawlessness, and their action sends a clear message that the latter will NOT be tolerated.

Authorities must continue to ensure those engaging in criminal activity, including rioters who destroy private businesses, are punished to the fullest extent of the law. Additionally, I stand firmly with Jewish students and will continue to hold college administrators accountable if they enable discrimination and intimidation on our campuses.

On Wednesday, the House passed the Antisemitism Awareness Act in an effort to protect Jewish students. The bipartisan proposal would help ensure antisemitic hate crimes on college campuses are properly investigated and prosecuted. I’m also a cosponsor of the Stop Antisemitism on College Campuses, which would revoke federal funds for colleges and universities that peddle antisemitism or facilitate events that promote antisemitism in any way.

RECOGNIZING SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

This week, we recognize and celebrate the Oregon small businesses that form the backbone of our economy. I’m working hard to support them by advancing legislation to encourage job creation, support Oregon workers, and drive economic growth.

For example, I’m leading the bipartisan Child Care Investment Act to empower businesses to offer better child care options to their employees. Similarly, I know health care costs can make or break a small business. Through legislation like the CHOICE Arrangement Act, I’m supporting efforts to help small businesses provide employees with more affordable health plans. In addition, I’m leading efforts like the National Apprenticeship Act and the Youth Workforce Readiness Act to ensure workers are prepared to meet today’s economic demands.

MEETING OREGONIANS

I recently joined state Rep. Shelly Boshart Davis to meet with the Anderson family, after we worked with them to get specialty care for their baby, Reagan, who was diagnosed with hydrocephalus. I'm now a proud member of the Congressional Pediatric & Adult Hydrocephalus Caucus to help raise awareness and invest in research for this condition!

This week, I had the opportunity to speak at the annual Oregon/Washington business fly-in. I'm committed to working on policies that will set up our local economies for success, including measures to improve public safety, build reliable infrastructure, and expand workforce training to drive economic growth.

I also enjoyed speaking with local law enforcement from along the West Coast, including the Oregon Coalition of Police and Sheriffs, to discuss ways we can work together to improve safety in our communities. I appreciate everything they do and will always Back the Blue!

FIRE WEATHER DEVELOPMENT ACT PASSES HOUSE

This week, the House passed the Fire Weather Development Act, which would improve wildfire forecasting and detection. I was proud to vote for this legislation and will continue working to protect our communities from devastating fires.

For example, I’m a co-lead of the bipartisan Fire Safe Electrical Corridors Act, which would allow the U.S. Forest Service to approve the removal of hazardous trees near power lines on federal land without requiring a timber sale – easing a serious threat that has been a major cause of destructive wildfires in the past. I’m also a cosponsor of the Wildfire Tech DEMO Act to expand access to wildfire technologies.

ONE MORE THING

Monday marks the anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, a day to recognize and remember the millions of innocent souls lost during the Holocaust. As we commemorate their lives during this tumultuous time, we must also recommit ourselves to combating all forms of antisemitism.

Thank you for reading my weekly newsletter. It's an honor to be your voice in the U.S. House of Representatives. Your thoughts, concerns, and comments are very important to me. Always feel free to get in touch by calling (202) 225-5711 or by visiting my website at chavez-deremer.house.gov.

Sincerely,