This week, nearly 5,000 of you contacted my office. I hear your voices loud and clear: our government belongs to the people, not Elon Musk and Donald Trump.
I want to thank everyone who has contacted me. Our government is accountable to the people, and it’s critical for me to hear how these policies are affecting folks in my district. I’m inspired by how energized and engaged you are – we’re going to need to maintain this energy for the weeks and months to come.
President Trump relies on political theater, creating chaos, confusion, and fear. Much of what he is proposing is illegal and unconstitutional, and it’s already being challenged in the courts. I remain laser-focused on doing everything in my power to protect you and your family.
Here’s how I’m fighting back:
Conducting Oversight: I am demanding answers from federal agencies – including specifying which federal projects are impacted by President Trump’s executive orders. I’m also raising the alarm on the potential impact of 25% tariffs on housing, construction materials, and our economy. This week, I demanded an immediate meeting with the Acting Secretary of Education on the dangerous plans to dismantle the Department of Education, but they refused to meet. I also warned the administration about damaging the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. On Tuesday, I was denied entry into the Department of Treasury, so I joined protestors outside to raise our voices in solidarity together. We’re making it clear to the entire Trump administration: We will not back down.
Keeping Your Data Safe: This week, my Democratic colleagues and I introduced the Taxpayer Data Protection Act to ensure trusted public servants, not Elon Musk, are the only ones who have access to your personal information. This legislation is a direct response to Elon Musk’s shameful invasion of Americans’ privacy. It will stop people with conflicts of interest or without a security clearance from accessing the highly sensitive Treasury Department payment system – which is responsible for Social Security and Medicare benefits.
Protecting Federal Workers: Indiana is home to over 24,000 federal workers. Democrats have introduced the Saving the Civil Service Act to protect federal workers from political manipulation. Meanwhile, I’ve been urging all federal workers to hold out – do not take this deal. President Trump and Musk have no legal authority to make these offers, and you will likely be ripped off in the process. Check out my column in the Indianapolis Recorder on this topic here.
Blocking Cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security: It’s important to note – while Republicans have control of the House, it’s a slim majority, and Republicans will need to work with Democrats when it comes to issues like the budget. Democrats are committed to protect programs you rely on.
Connecting Directly with the People: Next week, I will be holding a virtual town hall to answer your questions and hear about your priorities. Be on the lookout for another message from me with more details on how you can submit questions. Plus, I’ve been in contact with local organizations and service providers that have already been impacted. In the meantime, I’ll still be providing regular updates via social media, on the news, and at community events. These are challenging times – but I am your representative, and I have your back.
Encouraging Republican Action: It’s important for everyone to raise their voices as one. These are not Democratic or Republican issues – they are American issues. I called on my responsible and patriotic colleagues in defending our Constitution in a column this week published by the Indianapolis Star.
I’ll continue speaking out, and I encourage you to do the same. Members of Congress and Senators from both parties need to hear how this administration is impacting you. If you or a family member has a story to share, please get in touch.
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