From the Desk of Rep. Morelle

January 31, 2025

Dear JOHN,

This has been an incredibly stressful and chaotic week for our community and our entire country. Together, we have grappled with President Trump's unprecedented Executive Order to freeze federal funding, an act that would have a devastating, multigenerational impact on nearly half our nation’s population.

My office has been overflowing with calls from community members who are concerned, scared, and angry—just like I am.

The president is intended to be a servant, not a king—and we will not allow President Trump to unilaterally make decisions that defy the system of checks and balances that defines our democracy. We must recognize these actions for what they are: an effort to consolidate power and erode the fundamental principles that govern out nation.

In the weeks and months ahead, know that I am committed to fighting back against these reckless Executive Orders—in the courts and wherever necessary. In the meantime, I’m continuing to work on behalf of our community. Read more about my week below:

Protecting our Promise to Older Americans

Congressman Morelle stands with Paul Caccamise from Lifespan

Speaker Johnson and the House Republicans have indicated their willingness to gut the Social Security program, stripping benefits away from millions of Americans. Seniors earned these benefits, and they don’t deserve to have their livelihoods used as political bargaining chips.

I’m doing everything I can to fight back. This week, I was joined by Lifespan to outline legislation I support to ensure the long-term vitality of Social Security. The Social Security 2100 Act would increase benefits for all beneficiaries, improve the Cost-of-Living Adjustments to reflect inflation, and end the five-month waiting period for disability benefits, along with other common-sense measures.

Visiting RMSC's Latest Exhibit

Congressman Morelle stands with RMSC leadership and curator Jamie Jacobs

I had the pleasure of visiting the Rochester Museum and Science Center this week to tour their latest exhibit and meet with curator Jamie Jacobs. The exhibit, Hodinöšyö:nih Continuity | Innovation | Resilience, showcases Indigenous artists inspired by their ancestors and brings a unique educational opportunity to our community.

Earlier this month, I stood on the House floor to recognize the groundbreaking work of Jamie Jacobs and celebrate the opening of this exhibit, made possible in part by federal investment. You can see my full remarks here: Congressman Morelle Delivers Remarks on the House Floor Celebrating RMSC’s New Exhibit

Visiting Local Rochester Organizations

Congressman Morelle stands with leaders from Hope 585

Hope 585 works every day to help marginalized youth and their families heal and move forward with strength. It was a pleasure to meet with them this week and discuss our shared mission to build a brighter future for everyone in Rochester.

Congressman Morelle stands with leaders from the Rochester Child Care council

This week, I joined the Child Care Council for a tour of their state-of-the-art mental health clinic which is set to open soon here in Rochester. This facility will help countless families and children in our community improve their social and emotional well being.

Without access to affordable childcare services, our kids cannot learn, and our economy cannot grow. While we work to make universal childcare a reality, I’m grateful to organizations like the Child Care Council for connecting quality care providers with families who need them.

Honoring a Half Century of Public Service

Congressman Morelle presents a flag to Ogden town attorney Daniel Schum at his retirement celebration

For 52 years, Army veteran Daniel Schum has served the Town of Ogden with purpose and integrity as the Town Attorney. It was an honor to present a U.S. flag flown over the Capitol to him at his retirement celebration today.

A half-century of service is an extraordinary and rare milestone that few, if any individuals ever reach, and it speaks volumes about Dan’s commitment to the people of Ogden. Congratulations to Dan on a well-earned retirement!

This week we witnessed a horrific plane crash in Washington. My heart is with the families and loved ones affected by this tragedy, and I’m grateful for the brave first responders who worked through the night on search and rescue efforts. I will continue to hold everyone impacted in my prayers.

Please know my office is always here to help. Visit morelle.house.gov to learn more about how we can assist you and your family.

Until next week,

Joe Morelle

New York’s 25th Congressional District