Dear neighbor,

The past month, Congress has been out of session after Republicans went home early to avoid voting on releasing the Epstein files. While Republicans want to hide from facts and the American people—I have been continuing to work for you. 

A week after our great telephone town hall, I joined Triste Ordex, a veteran and organizer, for an important conversation on House Democrats’ Honor Our Veterans Day of Action. You can watch the full conversation below.

Last week, California Democrats fought back against Trump and Texas Republicans’ attack on our democracy. Republicans started this because they know their policies are unpopular – more expensive grocery prices and school supplies, threats to Social Security, and the deployment of the National Guard to American cities. Now, Californians have the choice to make their voices heard and fight back later this year.

I’m standing with California legislators by demanding answers as to why masked federal immigration agents showed up at Governor Newsom’s press conference, where he announced these efforts. We will not be intimidated.

Additionally, the Supreme Court is taking up a case to decide whether to uphold state conversion therapy bans for minors. As a California State Senator, I passed the first ban of this kind in the nation. I’m leading nearly 200 Democratic lawmakers on an amicus brief to the Supreme Court to defend these live-saving bans.

Throughout the month, I had the opportunity to visit several businesses in our district and talk with people in our community who are advancing American technology and innovation. I also hosted a terrific Service Academy Day in El Segundo for students and parents to learn more about military academies and the application process. And yesterday, I kicked off my Youth Advisory Council’s first meeting of the year. I am deeply inspired by all the young people who are civic leaders in our community.

As I get ready to head back to DC next week, I will continue to provide updates on my work, especially as we approach the government funding deadline on September 30.

This Labor Day weekend, I hope you’ll join me in celebrating the millions of hardworking Americans that are the backbone of our country.

SERVICE ACADEMY NOMINATIONS: If you're interested in a nomination to a U.S. military academy, please submit an application by Friday, September 19, 2025. Don't hesitate to email [email protected] with questions.

CONGRESSIONAL APP CHALLENGE: Submissions for the 2025 Congressional App Challenge are due by October 30, 2025 at 12:00pm ET. For more information and challenge guidelines, go here.

My LA office is here to help if you need assistance with a federal agency. Call us at (323) 651-1040 or visit our federal assistance webpage here.

I look forward to updating you again soon.

Warmly,

Ted