August 2nd, 2024

Dear Fourth District Constituent,

This week brought much joy to Americans as President Biden announced the release of 16 people unjustly held as political prisoners in Russia, including three American citizens and one American green card holder.  Thanks to the tireless diplomatic work by the Biden-Harris Administration, Evan Gershkovich, Paul Whelan, Alsu Kurmasheva, and Vladimir Kara-Murza are finally coming home. This negotiated release is a powerful example of America's resolve to free those held unjustly around the world and serves as a reminder of the importance of international alliances built on mutual trust and shared values. I'm grateful to President Biden and Vice President Harris for their leadership and determination to free Americans held in detention around the world. 

Our American and Minnesota pride is shining brightly as the 2024 Summer Olympics kicked off in Paris this week.  Team USA has already won dozens of medals, including nine gold. Saint Paul's very own Suni Lee had dazzling performances in the Women's Gymnastics events, including a bronze medal in the individual all-around event and a Team USA gold medal in the team event. We're so proud of Suni, but she's not done yet — you can tune in on Sunday morning at 8:40am CT to watch her compete in the uneven bars final!  This week Lara Dallman-Weiss of Shoreview will also be representing Team USA’s Sailing Team.  Good luck Team USA!

AT HOME IN MINNESOTA

Kellogg Bridge Reconstruction

Union Gospel Mission

On Monday, I visited Union Gospel Mission’s Adult Education and Child Development Center. I met with Pam Axberg, the CEO of Union Gospel of the Twin Cities. She shared the powerful stories of those experiencing homelessness in our community. I learned about the Naomi Family Program, which works to ensure women, children, and families in our community have food and shelter. Thank you to all those who work so tirelessly in service to others, especially the most vulnerable in our community.

National Night Out Around the District

National Night Out is just around the corner, and events will be held this upcoming Tuesday, August 6th. National Night Out helps foster stronger, safer, and more connected communities. It’s a great opportunity to get to know the folks around your neighborhood and the men and women who bravely serve and protect our communities. Cities and neighborhoods all around MN-04 will host events and block parties near your area. You can find more information here: Saint Paul, Union Depot, Maplewood, Woodbury, Lake Elmo, Stillwater, and the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. 

Reintroducing Disability Pride Month Resolution

Earlier in July, Minnesota celebrated its 2nd annual Disability Pride Month.  I believe the U.S. should follow Minnesota’s lead, and have re-introduced my bipartisan resolution to officially designate July as Disability Pride Month. This resolution serves as a reminder that the disability community has achieved so much progress since the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act 34 years ago, but there is still more work to do to advance inclusion, improve accessibility, and expand disability rights. The disability community contributes so much to our state, and I'm proud to continue the fight to ensure that all people with disabilities have the rights, freedoms, and opportunities that they deserve.