Dear John,
For members of the U.S. military, our service to the country doesn’t end when we separate—frequently it continues in the form of civic duty, public accountability, and principled leadership. In this update, I want to share two things garnering news headlines where those values are front and center: our constitutional responsibilities at home and our commitments to allies abroad. |
As a third-generation veteran, I take our military oaths seriously. That’s why I joined five fellow lawmakers and veterans in releasing a public message in November reminding active-duty servicemembers that they are legally required to refuse unlawful orders. This message comes directly from the principles of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and the U.S. Constitution. Ours wasn’t a controversial statement. All service-members, from enlisted personnel to officers, swear an oath to uphold the Constitution, not to obey any single individual. Our message echoed that foundational truth.
|
Unfortunately, the Trump Administration’s reaction to this video included harsh accusations of treason and sedition and has resulted in threats of violence against all six of us, our families and our staffs. This escalation is incredibly irresponsible and part of a disturbing trend of political intimidation and retaliatory abuse of power. The Pentagon has called for an investigation into Senator Mark Kelly, and the FBI is now pursuing Senator Elissa Slotkin along with Representatives Jason Crow, Chris Deluzio, Maggie Goodlander, and me for publicly reminding service-members of their legal duties.
And while this administration focuses on investigating us for upholding the Constitution, recent reporting confirms we were right to be concerned. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth reportedly authorized a strike in international waters--a second missile launch (or "double tap")--that targeted survivors clinging to the wreckage of the first attack. This tactic, condemned under international law, may violate the “no quarter” rule, which prohibits striking combatants who are hors de combat—out of the fight, incapacitated, or attempting to surrender. It’s vital that all military actions adhere to international norms and U.S. law. Civilian oversight is not optional; it is essential. |
You may have been one of the callers to my office who disagreed with our making this video, and while I appreciate that you took the time to share your feelings, I believe that exercising constitutional speech and reaffirming our laws is never wrong. I will not be intimidated into silence. None of us should be. I will continue to do my job, honor my oath, and speak the truth, even when it is inconvenient to those in power.
Across my offices, we have also received hundreds of calls and emails with messages of support, which I also appreciate. Click on the link to take a listen. |
|
Since Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, I have supported American assistance that helps Ukraine defend its democracy and sovereignty. This is not charity; it is defense. An expansionist Russia is dangerous to Europe, and ultimately to the United States. I have voted for military, economic, and humanitarian assistance packages that ensure Ukraine has the tools to defend itself against the country that invaded it. I’ve also supported strong oversight to make sure that American taxpayer dollars are used responsibly and transparently. That’s why I am deeply concerned by recent reporting from the Washington Post that senior figures connected to the Trump administration—including real estate developer Steve Witkoff and the president’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, who holds no official role in government, are managing negotiations with Russia. These appear to be aimed at brokering terms to benefit certain business interests while potentially undermining Ukraine’s position and the official diplomatic efforts of the U.S. and our allies. At a time when Congress and our European allies are working to keep Ukraine supported and unified, negotiations that cut against that strategy are not only inappropriate, but potentially dangerous. We need to remember that Russia invaded Ukraine, not the other way around. The path to peace must continue to be shaped by diplomacy, and not by backroom deals that put personal profit over national security. |
Pennsylvania’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps families living on low incomes pay their heating bills in the form of a cash grant. Households in immediate danger of being without heat can also qualify for crisis grants. The cash grant is a one-time payment sent directly to the utility company/fuel provider to be credited on your bill and does not require repayment. These grants range from $200 to $1,000 based on household size, income, and fuel type. If you or someone know could use this help, click here for more information and to apply. |
|
Whether you’re concerned about government gridlock or health care access, your voice matters. Please continue to reach out and share your thoughts. I work for you.
You can join our telephone town hall next week during which we’ll focus on affordability and the rising cost of living with guests from local Chambers of Commerce and a small business owner.
You can join us in two ways: Dial into the call on (855) 731-4616 or go to Houlahan.house.gov/live. You’ll be able to ask questions no matter how you choose to join.
And keep an eye out for an invitation to the annual "State of the Sixth" in-person town hall in February. Details coming soon! |
|
Serving as our community’s representative in Congress is the honor and privilege of my lifetime and I hope you will reach out about the issues you care about.
As always, please contact my office if you need assistance.
Sincerely, |
Chrissy Houlahan U.S. Member of Congress
Were you forwarded this email? Sign up for my newsletter here.
Please share: if you find this newsletter valuable or interesting, please share it with friends and family and ask them to subscribe too.
Please note that replying to this email will not direct your message to the right place. To contact the Office of Representative Houlahan, please click here. |
|
