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Dear Friend,
The recent election has brought a mix of emotions, especially with Donald Trump’s victory. While these results may be challenging for many of us, I believe with all my heart in the strength and resilience of the people of Minnesota's 5th District. This is a time for us to lean on each other, to recommit to our shared vision for progress, and to find strength in our solidarity.
I am incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to represent you in Congress for another two years. Your support and trust in our mission mean everything to me. I am inspired every single day by the passion and dedication that radiates from this community, and I promise to carry your voices with me as I return to Washington.
Thank you for your support. The work continues and I'm honored to continue this journey.
Attending Council Vice President Chughtai’s Open Office Hours
Last week, I attended Minneapolis City Council Vice President Chughtai's open office hours to discuss critical issues around housing affordability and homelessness in our community. These important conversations reinforce why I've introduced the Homes for All Act in Congress - legislation that will dramatically expand our public housing stock and guarantee housing as a fundamental human right.
Far too many of our neighbors are struggling to keep a roof over their heads, whether it's due to skyrocketing rents, limited availability of affordable units, or a lack of supportive services for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. I'm committed to working with local leaders, housing advocates, and impacted communities to advance policies that make safe, stable, and affordable housing a reality for all.
October Town Hall Recap
Thank you all for coming to my town hall at Hall Stem Academy. It’s always nice to come back home and provide updates and answer your questions.
I invited a few of our elected leaders to share about the work they have been doing for our communities. We heard from Mayor Frey, Representative Agbaje, Hennepin County Board Chair Fernando, Council Member Ellison, and Minneapolis School Superintendent Sayles-Adams. I provided updates on my work in Congress, including the continuing resolution to avert a government shutdown, the No Shame at School Act, and the Long COVID Research Moonshot Act. You can view the full town hall here.
Spending Time with Students at Columbia Academy
It was a pleasure to spend time with students and staff at Columbia Academy, Columbia Heights Public Middle School. I was greeted by students in the AVID program and I enjoyed the chance to speak with them, answer their questions, and hear their perspectives. Their curiosity, thoughtfulness, and passion for learning was truly inspiring.
Chatting with Seniors at Sabathani Senior Housing
It’s always great visiting our seniors and I appreciated members of the Sabathani Housing community taking the time to share their experiences and concerns with me.
Many of the seniors expressed worries about the rising costs of healthcare and prescription drugs, and how that is impacting their ability to afford other necessities like groceries and rent on their fixed incomes. The high and ever-increasing costs of health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket expenses for medications are causing a great deal of stress and financial strain. I am committed to being a strong advocate for policies and programs that will provide much-needed relief and support for seniors facing these challenges.
Visiting the Minnesota Indian Women’s Resource Center
I had the opportunity to visit the Minnesota Indian Women's Resource Center (MIWRC) and meet with their new CEO, Ruth Buffalo. During my visit, I learned more about the vital work MIWRC does to support Native women, girls, and their families in the Twin Cities. They provide a range of services including cultural programming, educational and career development, and support for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. I was inspired by the dedication of the MIWRC team and the resilience of the women they serve. They are doing tremendous work to empower the Native community.
In Service,
Ilhan Omar
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