From the Desk of Rep. Joe Morelle

March 14, 2025

Dear JOHN,

House Republicans have rammed through a partisan spending bill that hands President Trump unchecked power to slash essential programs, forcing devastating cuts Americans fear.

Ignoring their responsibility to craft a budget that meets the needs of working families, House Republicans have given Trump a green light to gut veterans’ services, slash Social Security retirement benefits, and strip healthcare from seniors and children—all to fund massive tax breaks to his billionaire friends.

This isn’t just fiscally reckless—it’s a direct attack on the well-being of everyday Americans. It’s chaos by design, perfectly aligned with the President’s brand: Trump and his friends first, working families last.

While President Trump and House Republicans continue to prioritize the interests of billionaires, I’m fighting for families in our community. Read more about my week below:

Addressing the Tanking Stock Market

If spiking prices on everyday goods wasn’t enough—President Trump’s Trade war is threatening the retirement funds Americans have worked their entire careers for.

Since President Trump announced these disastrous tariffs, the U.S. stock market has lost about $4 trillion in value, meaning hardworking Americans’ savings take a hit and their financial security and plans for the future are at risk.

We should be pursuing solutions that uplift families and help them make ends meet, not jeopardizing the investments they’ve worked for.

Joining the Congressional Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Alabama

Congressman Morelle Stands ready to cross the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama

Congressman Morelle joins Leader Jeffries on a tour of museums in Selma, Alabama

It was an honor and a privilege to take part in this year's Congressional Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Alabama with the Faith and Politics Institute. The history in Selma is a powerful reminder of how far we've come—and how far we still have to go.

Together with my colleagues, we crossed the Edmund Pettus Bridge to mark 60 years since hundreds crossed the very same bridge in pursuit of their fundamental right to vote only to be met with violence on what would come to be known as Bloody Sunday.

Their courage changed history, but the fight for equality isn't over—it's happening now. As top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, I'm committed to the fight to ensure every American has the right to vote confidently in free and fair elections.

Supporting Dedicated Volunteers Across our Country

Congressman Morelle Introduces legislation to support seniors and volunteers for senior programs

This week, I proudly introduced legislation to support volunteer programs, like Meals on Wheels, that deliver food to older, more vulnerable Americans.

This bill will help support the selfless volunteers in communities across the country who are committed to supporting our seniors.

The 2025 Congressional Art Competition

I’m excited to announce the 2025 Congressional Art Competition! This competition is open to high school students in New York’s 25th Congressional District, and the winner will have the opportunity to have their artwork displayed in the United States Capitol for one year. This year’s theme is, “Why I Love Rochester.”

This is an exciting way to celebrate the artistic talent across Rochester, and I highly encourage students to participate. To learn more about the rules and guidelines for submissions, visit my website here. I cannot wait to see all the pieces from talented artists across our community!

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. Due to ongoing actions by the Trump Administration affecting federal agencies, case processing may be slightly delayed. We appreciate your patience and remain committed to resolving your cases promptly.

Until next week,

Joe Morelle

New York’s 25th Congressional District