It was another chaotic week in Washington. Unfortunately, it was not a productive one.  With just 10 days before funding for the federal government expires, House Republicans failed to pass a Continuing Resolution (CR) necessary to avoid a shutdown, and instead forced votes on culture war issues that the American people are not asking for.  

On Wednesday evening, the House of Representatives voted in a bipartisan fashion to reject Republicans’ extreme CR that would have made it harder for Americans to vote while providing insufficient funding for key agencies and government functions. Instead of working with Democrats to deliver a bipartisan, short-term funding bill for the American people, Speaker Johnson caved to the most extreme House Republicans. The Result? The proposal failed on a vote of 202-220. We now have one legislative week left to fund the government, and the House GOP appears to have no plan to offer a bipartisan resolution to avert a government shutdown. The path forward is clear – a bipartisan two-month stopgap bill to prevent a shutdown, because we have serious work left to do to complete the work of funding government for the next year. See my remarks from the House floor:

 

Washington Update
Next Friday, September 27th at 11 am I will host a virtual update from Washington where I'll take questions and provide an update about my work to fund government and avoid a shutdown. Please click here to submit questions and RSVP.

Our Economy Strengthens

While inflation has dropped significantly from its peak of 9.1% in 2022, I know that working Minnesotans are still struggling with high prices. Thankfully, we’re starting to see bright spots in the economy that point toward a long-term drop in inflation and a smoother economy moving forward. This week, the Federal Reserve announced a half-point rate cut, a sign that inflation is under control and that we're moving in the right direction. 

 

Update from the Twin Cities

Last week I spoke with KSTP Channel 5 about the Cold-blooded Animal Research and Exhibition (CARE) Act, which I have introduced in the House. This legislation would amend the Animal Welfare Act to ensure that the existing standards set under federal law for the humane care, treatment, and exhibition of some warm-blooded animals are extended to cover additional warm-blooded and cold-blooded animals. The bill’s introduction comes amid a flurry of concerns among Minnesotans regarding the cruel and dangerous conditions that uncovered animals are subject to, and the risk this poses to our public health. Watch my interview here:

 

 

 

Last week I joined veterans and local officials for the groundbreaking of the new women’s clinic at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center. Women play a critical role in our military, and as the fastest growing demographic of veterans, they deserve to have comprehensive healthcare services that meet their needs.

 

On Saturday, I joined our community in celebrating the annual Selby Ave JazzFest — enjoying the music, food, and performances while supporting our local businesses. My office heard directly from community members, listened to the issues that constituents are dealing with, and offered Congressional inquiries with the federal agencies involved. Thank you to Walker West Music Academy, volunteers, artists, and vendors for continuing one of Saint Paul’s grooviest and most celebrated events!

Online Passport Renewal 

Millions of Americans can now renew their U.S. passports 24/7 using the State Department’s Online Passport Renewal system! If it’s time to renew your passport, you can save time and money by applying without getting a printed photo or submitting a paper application and check by mail. See if you are eligible to renew your passport using this safe and convenient new method at travel.state.gov/renewonline. 

 

Early Voting Begins in Minnesota 

Early voting starts tomorrow! For more information on mail-in voting and early in-person voting, visit mnvotes.org. MPR News also has an overview of what to know. 

 

Hispanic Heritage Month
Beginning on September 15 and running through October 15, Hispanic Heritage Month is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the rich culture, cuisine, and arts of the Hispanic community here in our community. Looking for a way to celebrate? Check out the Minnesota Star Tribune.

 

Suicide Prevention 

September is Suicide Prevention Month --- a time to raise awareness around mental health and to share vital resources with people affected by suicide or experiencing suicidal thoughts. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.