Dear John,

In this week's newsletter, my statement on President Trump's joint address to Congress, holding Mayor Johnson accountable, and working to strengthen our health care system. If you need help with federal agencies, please reach out to one of my offices listed at the bottom of the newsletter.

My Statement on President Trump's Joint Address to Congress

On Tuesday, President Trump outlined how Republicans will renew the American Dream and create more opportunities for all Americans.

House Republicans are ready to continue our work alongside the Trump administration to build a brighter future for our nation.

Read my full statement below:

Oversight Committee Hearing with Sanctuary City Mayors

This week, I joined the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform's hearing with mayors from sanctuary cities. I had the opportunity to ask Chicago's Mayor Brandon Johnson why he continues to support policies that have led to the decline of Chicago.

The problems facing the city of Chicago are growing and failed sanctuary city policies only make it worse. Law enforcement morale is low and crime rates are sky high. This is unacceptable.

Mayor Johnson—with his 6.6% approval rating—must face reality and prioritize his citizens over illegal immigrants.

Watch my remarks from the hearing below:

Urging Governors to Act on DeepSeek

The Chinese Communist Party has made it clear that it will exploit any tool at its disposal to undermine U.S. national security, spew disinformation, and collect Americans’ data.

Representative Josh Gottheimer and I sent a letter to U.S. governors urging the ban of DeepSeek on state-issued government devices.

Read more here: Bipartisan congressional duo encourages governors to ban DeepSeek on government devices

Speaking to the National Bleeding Disorder Foundation

 I was honored to speak at the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation's annual fly-in this week!

Central Illinois is lucky to have organizations like BCDI, under the leadership of Dr. Tarantino, that provide high quality access to hemophilia treatments.

I’ll continue to work alongside my colleagues in Congress to dismantle barriers and advance research, innovation, and treatments to ensure individuals with rare blood disorders receive the care they deserve.

Strengthening our Health Care System

I was proud to be joined by Congresswoman Angie Craig and Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach in reintroducing the Rebuild America’s Health Care Schools Act.

This bill ensures that nurses and health professionals receive a high-quality education and increases access to care for rural and underserved areas of Illinois' 16th Congressional District.

Read more here: LaHood Reintroduces Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen and Protect Our Future Health Care Workforce

Select Committe on China Hearing on Cybersecurity

The Chinese Communist Party has repeatedly expressed its intention to become the cyber superpower, increasing cyber-attacks and espionage by 150% over the last year.

Wednesday's Select Committee on the China's hearing made it clear the U.S. needs to quickly address this growing threat and safeguard our national security.

Watch my remarks from the hearing below:

Visiting with Peoria County Officials

It was great to meet with some of Peoria County's elected officials in Washington, DC! During our meeting, we discussed economic development projects in the city and how we can better support local businesses in the community. I appreciate them taking the time to talk with me.

One More Thing: My Interview with WGN Following the Oversight Hearing

Mayor Johnson refused to answer my questions about his failed sanctuary city policies.

He continued to double down on his refusal to work with law enforcement and end taxpayers funding for illegal immigrants. He gave me no confidence that he wants to change course—despite his 6.6% approval rating.

Watch the full interview below:

It is a privilege to serve the constituents of Illinois' 16th Congressional District. Thank you for subscribing to my newsletter. Please do not hesitate to reach out to one of my offices if we can ever be of assistance.

Sincerely,

Darin LaHood
Member of Congress