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Dear Friend,
I am looking forward to the upcoming in-person town hall meeting on Wednesday, May 28th in the NW suburbs with state legislators. Please follow our eventbrite to get updated information on the exact location and time.
Fighting to Decriminalize Cannabis
I joined fellow Congressional Cannabis Caucus co-chair Rep. Dina Titus and a coalition of advocates to speak out against the ongoing injustice of cannabis criminalization. In 2023, Minnesota legalized adult-use cannabis, and now adults across our state can legally buy and use cannabis. But in other parts of the country, mostly Black, Brown, and low-income people, are still sitting in prison for doing the exact same thing. Congress needs to fully decriminalize cannabis, expunge past convictions, and invest in the communities that were hit hardest by decades of racist drug policies.
Education and the Workforce Markup
 At this week’s Education and the Workforce Committee markup, I introduced several amendments to protect the millions of Americans struggling under the weight of student debt and rising education costs. On May 5, the Trump Administration resumed garnishing wages from people behind on student loan payments. This will be devastating for borrowers already living paycheck to paycheck. I introduced an amendment to stop that.
House Republicans are also promoting options to remove the option to defer student loan payments during times of economic hardship. I fought back with an amendment to protect that option. Their plan also includes an $880 billion cut to Medicaid, which would force college students to choose between their health care and finishing school. I introduced an amendment to make sure they won’t have to make that choice.
And finally, I stood up for the part-time students across the country who rely on Pell Grants. The House Republicans' proposals include $350 billion in cuts to federal student aid programs, including new restrictions on Pell Grants for low-income students. My amendment would have ensured they can continue their education with the support they need.
Education should be a path to opportunity. I’ll keep fighting to make sure every student, regardless of income or background, gets a fair shot.
Congressional Progressive Caucus Presser on Trump’s first 100 days
 In his first 100 days back in office, President Trump has signed hundreds of executive orders. His policies has gutted over 100,000 civil service jobs, targeted universities and law firms, and pardoned every single person convicted for their role in the January 6 attack, including those found guilty of attacking Capitol Police Officers.
He’s used the power of the Justice Department to investigate political opponents, ordered foreign students detained for exercising free speech, and even deported immigrants without due process by using the Alien Enemies Act. On the world stage, his tariff announcements has destabilized markets and started trade wars with other nations, which are also increasing prices for every day Americans.
This is not normal. I’m working every day with my colleagues in the Progressive Caucus to protect the institutions that serve the people and defend our democracy from authoritarian policies. Watch my remarks here.
Minnesota Minute - Tesfaye Deyasso
Tesfaye Deyasso was named the 2025 National Hero of the Year by the National Association of Letter Carriers after saving a man’s life. His heroism is a testament to the strength and compassion found in our communities and federal workers. It was my honor to recognize Tesfaye’s bravery and achievement on the House Floor. Watch my remarks here.
May Day - International Workers Day
As the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections, I was proud to speak at this year’s May Day press conference. I was able to recognize the workers who keep this country running, especially the immigrant workers who are too often underpaid and overworked. Every worker, no matter where they’re from or what job they do, deserves dignity, fair wages, and safe working conditions. I’ll continue using my role as ranking member on the Workforce Protections Subcommittee to push for stronger labor standards and protect every worker’s right to organize and be treated fairly. Watch my remarks here.
Congressional App Challenge
Calling all tech-savvy teens! Want to see your app featured in the U.S. Capitol? The Congressional App Challenge is your chance to shine!
Every year we challenge students in our districts to create and submit their original apps for a chance to win the Congressional App Challenge. Each challenge is district-specific. U.S. Representatives will publicly recognize our winning teams, and each winning app may be put on display in the U.S. Capitol Building for one year. The competition deadline is October 30th, 2025 at 12:00 pm ET. Visit https://www.congressionalappchallenge.us/ for more details and to register.
In Service,
Ilhan Omar
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