Dear John,

In April, I remained focused on delivering results for Louisiana’s 2nd Congressional District while fighting against the Musk-Trump Administration’s reckless agenda. From protecting consumers to expanding school nutrition options, from disaster preparedness to public health, our work in Congress and the community reflects the values Louisianians hold dear: equity, justice, and progress.
 
I also launched the first episode of my new podcast; keep reading to learn more. Here’s a snapshot of what we accomplished last month.

Carter in Congress

Cracking Down on Ticket Bots with the MAIN Event Ticketing Act

There’s nothing more frustrating than missing out on tickets to see your favorite artist, especially because of bots and scammers.
 
I introduced the Mitigating Automated Internet Networks (MAIN) Event Ticketing Act to protect consumers from bots and scammers dominating online ticket sales. This bipartisan bill enhances enforcement of the BOTS Act of 2016 and restores fairness and transparency in the ticket marketplace. Louisiana is the birthplace of American music, and I’m proud to stand with artists, venues, and industry leaders to protect fans and preserve the integrity of live entertainment. Learn more.

Extending Flood Insurance Protections for Louisianians

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Authorization Extension Act would secure the NFIP through December 31, 2026, longer than the typical short-term extensions we’ve seen in Congress. This bipartisan bill, that I authored with my colleagues from Louisiana and Mississippi, ensures continued access to flood protection as natural disasters become more intense and stay longer. Learn more.

Stopping Unsafe Imports with the Destruction of Hazardous Imports Act

Contaminated or mislabeled food has no place on American shelves. I partnered with Rep. Clay Higgins (R-LA) to introduce the Destruction of Hazardous Imports Act to protect Louisiana’s health and support our seafood economy. By granting the FDA the authority to destroy food products that fail to meet our strict standards, we’re closing a dangerous loophole that has allowed contaminated seafood to enter our markets. Learn more.

Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Deaths

To reduce crashes and save lives, the bipartisan Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Death Act requires the Department of Transportation to collect and report key data. Better data means better planning and safer roads for everyone. I'm proud to lead this effort with Reps. Dina Titus (D-NV) and Rudy Yakym (R-IN). Learn more.

Standing Up for FEMA

I sent a letter to the Musk-Trump Administration and Acting FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton opposing their plans to dismantle FEMA. As Louisianians, we know the importance of a robust federal disaster response system. Weakening FEMA puts lives at risk and communities in danger. Learn more.

Secretary Kennedy Must be Held Accountable

The Musk-Trump Administration needs to take its hands OFF the Department of Health and Human Services. Alongside my colleagues also on the Health Subcommittee of House Energy and Commerce, I demanded a meeting with Secretary Kennedy to get answers on the administration’s interference in critical health programs. Once again, no response.

We will not stop demanding transparency and accountability where it matters most—our nation’s health and well-being.

Carter in the Community

“What Makes America Tick?”

In April, I proudly launched my new podcast, What Makes America Tick?— hosted by Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. This will serve as a platform for honest conversations about the people, movements, and ideas shaping our country.
 
In the inaugural episode, I sat down for a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation with the top leadership of Essence Festival and Essence Magazine—the minds and hearts driving the movement.

Listen and subscribe today on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube.

Agriculture Listening Tour

In April, I traveled across Louisiana meeting with farmers, producers, and agricultural experts. These conversations highlighted the pressing challenges in our food systems and underscored the urgent need for strong federal support, especially the Farm Bill. Read more. Watch the tour below!

ICE Detention Center Oversight

No one should be snatched away from their family without due process. I led visits to two ICE Detention Facilities in Louisiana with a bicameral congressional delegation, including Reps. Bennie Thompson (D-MS), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), and Jim McGovern (D-MA) and senator Ed Markey (D-MA). We met Wendy Brito, an asylum-seeker from El Salvador and New Orleans-area resident who never returned home to her three children, U.S. citizens, from a regular ICE check-in. We also met Mahmoud Khalil and Rümeysa Öztürk, two students who have been unlawfully detained by ICE and transported to Louisiana from their homes in retaliation for simply exercising the freedom of speech. Read more.

“Hands Off” Mobilization

I was proud to join over 2,000 LA-02 residents at a recent Hands Off! mobilization event in New Orleans. This peaceful, community-led demonstration sent a powerful message: we will protect our democracy, civil rights, and rule of law from political attacks. Watch a clip of the rally below!

Acknowledgements 

Dr. Norman C. Francis, Humanist of the Year

I had the distinct honor of presenting the Humanist of the Year Award to the legendary Dr. Norman C. Francis at the 2025 Bright Lights celebration by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities. A mentor, humanitarian, and icon—Dr. Francis has shaped lives and lifted communities with grace and purpose. It was a joy to honor a man I deeply admire and respect.

Happy Birthday Hazel Ralph  

On April 27, 1925, Hazel Ralph was born. She is a true matriarch, a retired homemaker who enjoys spending time with her family, taking casino bus rides, eating out, and attending Catholic mass. Hazel is cherished by all her children and grandchildren. Happy Birthday, Hazel!

The Passing of Pope Francis 

On April 21st, 2025, Pope Francis passed away peacefully in the Vatican City. I released a statement honoring his profound legacy of compassion, justice, and humility. His voice was a guiding light for millions across the world, and his example will never be forgotten.

Alexis Margaret Herman 

Alexis Margaret Herman, a graduate of Xavier University, dedicated her life to expanding opportunities for all Americans, especially women, minorities, and working families. Her legacy will live on in my work as we strive to make the world a better place for everyone. May she rest in peace.

Bubba Henry  

I was devastated to hear that E.L. “Bubba” Henry passed away. Born in Jackson Parish, he earned his nickname “Bubba” from his older sister. As a former Speaker of the Louisiana House, he believed in “Good Trouble.” He was a great man, lawmaker, advisor, leader, and friend to so many. He selflessly gave to his family, friends, and all Louisianans. May he rest in peace. 

Being the voice for the people of Louisiana's Second Congressional District is a privilege and I am honored to serve you. For the latest updates on my work, follow my social media accounts at @RepTroyCarter or with the links below!  

Sincerely,

Troy A. Carter, Sr.
Member of Congress