Dear friends and neighbors,

As you know, the federal government has shut down. My top priority is keeping our community informed and supported. While essential services continue, many federal operations are curtailed or delayed, creating uncertainty for families, workers, and small businesses. My office remains fully open to help you navigate benefits, casework, and time-sensitive issues. We’re pressing for a responsible, bipartisan solution to reopen the government as quickly as possible. In the meantime, please reach out if you need assistance. We are here for you.

Standing Together with the Mitchel Houses

This week, our community was shaken by a gas explosion that caused a partial building collapse at the Mitchel Houses in Mott Haven. Thankfully, no injuries have been confirmed, but I know how frightening and unsettling this was for residents and families across the Bronx.

My heart goes out to everyone impacted. I visited the scene shortly after the explosion to meet with residents and first responders, and my office is working closely with city and state officials to make sure families have access to safe housing, emergency resources, and clear information as the investigation continues.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, please reach out to my district office. We stand ready to connect you with the resources and support you may need during this difficult time.

I had the profound honor of welcoming a group of Bronx-based faith leaders to Washington, D.C. for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s annual prayer breakfast. It was a powerful morning of reflection, unity, and inspiration. I was also proud to give them a tour of the U.S. Capitol, a small way to say thank you for the leadership and spiritual guidance they provide to our communities every day. The Bronx was well represented in our nation’s capital!

I had the honor of meeting with Prime Minister Albin Kurti of Kosovo to discuss the strong partnership between our two nations and opportunities for continued cooperation in the region.

I joined the National Fire Protection Association panel to discuss the growing risks of lithium-ion battery fires. Grateful for the opportunity to work with experts and first responders on how we can better protect our communities.

I recently led a bipartisan delegation of New York members of Congress in sending a letter to the Trump administration opposing its proposed 2026 home health payment rule, which threatens more than $1.1 billion in cuts next year and over $10.9 billion cumulatively since 2020. To underscore the real human impact, I joined a home health nurse on a visit to a Bronx patient to see firsthand how vital these services are, and released a video highlighting how slashing reimbursement rates could deny care to vulnerable seniors and people with disabilities, push patients into overcrowded hospitals, and worsen inequities in already fragile communities.

I’m proud to cosponsor H.Res. 772, which expresses support for National Public Lands Day by encouraging Americans to visit public lands on this special fee‑free day and to reflect on the spiritual, cultural, ecological, and economic importance of those lands.

Constituent of the Week: Aureo Ivan Cardona

This week, we honor the life and legacy of Aureo Ivan Cardona, a proud son of Puerto Rico and the South Bronx, and a lifelong advocate for justice, dignity, and community.

Born in Arecibo and raised in Hunts Point, Aureo never let hardship define him. He began his work through the Model Cities program, addressing poverty and inequality, and later became president of the South Bronx Housing Corporation, helping rebuild the community after the fires of the 1970s. He founded the National Hispanic Housing Coalition and worked tirelessly to uplift underserved communities from the Bronx to Puerto Rico and beyond.

Aureo was not only a leader but also an artist, mentor, husband, and father. His legacy is one of compassion, service, and lasting impact. The Bronx is stronger because of him. May his memory be a blessing and an inspiration.

Our hearts are with the residents of the Mitchel Houses in the Bronx, who have been deeply impacted by this week's tragic explosion. My team and I are actively working with local officials to ensure that affected families receive the support and resources they need during this difficult time. As we face the ongoing government shutdown, I remain committed to fighting for a responsible, bipartisan path forward that protects working families and ensures essential services remain funded. In moments of uncertainty, whether national or local, our strength lies in community and compassion. Thank you for staying engaged, and as always, my office is here to help.

Sincerely,

Building a Stronger Future