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Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press

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167 rows where party = "Democrat", state = "MO" and year = 2025 sorted by date descending

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url title date ▲ year month party chamber state member_name bioguide_id domain scraper source date_source text has_text collected_at updated_at
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleavers-statement-kansas-city-chiefs-relocation Congressman Cleaver’s Statement on the Kansas City Chiefs’ Relocation 2025-12-23 2025 2025-12 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) - Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after the Kansas City Chiefs announced their relocation from Missouri to Kansas. “When a major corporation leaves the city, it hurts badly but it will heal. When a major league franchise leaves the city, especially when it has become a part of the city's culture, it damages the heart. The healing of the heart will last a generation, and even then, there might be a leaking valve. “This is an extraordinarily disappointing outcome for Missourians, Chiefs fans, and taxpayers throughout western Missouri and eastern Kansas. With this announcement, I fear, comes the resumption of the economic border war between Missouri and Kansas, guaranteeing a race to the bottom that will lead to more subsidies for big businesses, paid for by fewer quality services for hardworking families and the communities we love. “My heart breaks for the generations of Chiefs fans across Missouri who have demonstrated die-hard loyalty to this franchise through the hardest of times and the greatest of moments. They have been, and will continue to be, the greatest fans in sports. “Kansas City has proven we are a major league destination, and as we move forward, we must do so together. City, County, and State officials must immediately turn their attention toward a coordinated and unified effort to retain the Royals and the benefits they bring to Kansas City and Jackson County. Our citizens deserve nothing less.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cleaver-committee-leadership-advance-historic-housing-package-out Cleaver, Committee Leadership Advance Historic Housing Package Out of Financial Services Committee with Overwhelming Support 2025-12-17 2025 2025-12 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, the House Committee on Financial Services passed the Housing for the 21st Century Act with overwhelming bipartisan support. The comprehensive housing legislation introduced by Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance Chair Mike Flood (R-NE), House Committee on Financial Services Ranking Member Maxine Waters (D-CA), and House Committee on Financial Services Chair French Hill (R-AR), will streamline housing development and affordability by updating outdated programs, removing regulatory roadblocks, and increasing local control. The bill is now set for House consideration. “After a year of good-faith negotiations, I’m thrilled that we have successfully gathered the bipartisan support necessary to advance comprehensive and meaningful housing legislation out of the Financial Services Committee,” said Ranking Member Cleaver. “Included in this long overdue housing package are reforms that will revitalize our rural housing programs, streamline housing development in communities nationwide, and lower costs for American families who desperately need relief. I want to thank Chairman Flood, Ranking Member Waters, and Chairman Hill for their partnership in this important effort. We remain committed to working with our House and Senate colleagues to send urgently needed housing legislation to the president’s desk, ensuring more working-class families will have access to quality, affordable housing.” The Housing for the 21st Century Act includes multiple reforms introduced by Ranking Member Cleaver and various colleagues, such as: HOME Reform Act: Introduced by Ranking Member Cleaver and Chairman Flood, the legislation is the most significant reform to the HOME program since authorization in 1990 and would increase the supply of decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing. Rural Housing Service Program Improvements: The legislation includes sections of the Rural Housing Service Reform Act, introduced by Ranking Membe… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-leads-colleagues-demanding-answers-president-trump-rising-cost-living Bell Leads Colleagues in Demanding Answers from President Trump on Rising Cost of Living 2025-12-12 2025 2025-12 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) led four of his colleagues in sending a letter to President Donald J. Trump urging the administration to present a real plan to address the rising cost of living facing families across the country. The lawmakers warned that working people are being forced into impossible choices while the administration continues to pursue policies that worsen household expenses. “Across the country, American families are struggling to keep up with the rising cost of living. Groceries, energy, rent, childcare, and health care have all skyrocketed compared to previous years. Now, following the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, paychecks are still struggling to keep pace with the rising cost of living. Working families are being forced to make impossible choices of feeding their children or paying their bills. Millions of American families across the nation are asking the same pressing question: When will the cost of living finally become affordable again?” said the lawmakers. “Despite repeated promises to deliver a ‘Golden Age for America,’ your Administration has not presented a serious plan to lower costs for working- and middle-class families. Instead, H.R. 1 imposed the largest health care cuts in U.S. history, reduced food assistance for more than 4 million Americans who rely on nutritional programs each month, and slashed incentives to encourage alternative sources of domestic energy production. These actions increased the cost of living and lowered after-tax income for the bottom 40 percent of earners, while giving the top 20 percent of earners a $6,000 per year average tax cut.” continued the lawmakers. “American families need real solutions: increasing the affordable housing supply, reducing prescription drug and healthcare costs, expanding access to affordable childcare, stabilizing supply chains, and ensuring wages rise in line with inflation. These are the staples of a sustainable working economy. The American people deserve straight answers.… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ranking-member-cleaver-chairman-flood-ranking-member-waters-and Ranking Member Cleaver, Chairman Flood, Ranking Member Waters, and Chairman Hill Release Bipartisan, Comprehensive Housing Package 2025-12-12 2025 2025-12 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Housing & Insurance, Mike Flood (R-NE), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Housing & Insurance, Ranking Member Maxine Waters (D-CA), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Financial Services, and French Hill (R-AR), Chairman of the House Committee on Financial Services, unveiled the bipartisan Housing for the 21st Century Act. This bipartisan housing package will streamline housing development and affordability by updating outdated programs, removing regulatory roadblocks, and increasing local control. “The cost of living remains the most urgent challenge facing Americans in every region of the country, and tackling that crisis begins with bipartisan, comprehensive housing reform,” said Ranking Member Cleaver. “Over the past year, Ranking Member Waters, Chairman Flood, Chairman Hill, and I have worked with Committee members on legislation that cuts unnecessary red tape, accelerates the development of affordable housing, and reduces costs for hardworking families. I’m proud of the bipartisan package we are introducing today and look forward to working with the House and Senate to advance critical housing legislation to the president’s desk.” “As housing gets more expensive, the American Dream of homeownership is slipping away for working families,” said Chairman Flood. “This package is the product of bipartisan work in the Financial Services Committee to address some of the core issues driving up the cost of housing. I want to thank Chairman Hill, Ranking Member Waters and my counterpart on the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver for working together to produce this strong, bipartisan package. I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance this legislation through the committee, move it across the House floor, and ultimately to get these critical reforms enacted into law.” “Today, I am pleased that our Committee is finally taking the lead on advancing meaningf… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-mciver-reintroduce-bill-protect-and-prepare-workers Reps. Cleaver, McIver Reintroduce Bill to Protect and Prepare Workers for Economic Impact of AI 2025-12-11 2025 2025-12 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Co-Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Tech Initiative, along with Representative LaMonica McIver (D-NJ), reintroduced the Workforce of the Future Act, legislation that would require a detailed study to grow our understanding of artificial intelligence (AI), its impact on the economy and workforce, and determine the skills necessary for workers to succeed. Additionally, the bill would provide workers, teachers, and students with the resources to develop integral skills required to participate in the workforce of the future. Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Sens. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Adam Schiff (D-CA). “While there is much excitement about the potential of AI and the benefits it can bring to our communities, there is also much concern about the impacts it will have on American workers, their jobs, and their wages. It is critically important that we take steps today to prepare our nation and our workforce for the economic consequences that are rapidly approaching with the growing adoption of AI,” said Congressman Cleaver. “The Workforce of the Future Act will provide the investments necessary to ensure American workers are ready and able to capitalize on those opportunities and that nobody is left behind.” “Working people deserve innovation that expands opportunity—not eliminates it. Strengthening our understanding of how AI is impacting jobs in real time and investing directly in education makes sure Americans are not caught flat-footed as AI accelerates,” said Rep. McIver. “By prioritizing training that delivers economic gains to young people and underrepresented communities, the Workforce of the Future Act puts power back where it belongs: with the people who keep our economy running.” "Artificial intelligence is increasingly disrupting our economy, contributing to layoffs and occupational changes,” said Senator Blunt Rochester. “Building off the work done by Senator Lap… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-secures-major-wins-and-millions-critical-funding-st-louis Bell Secures Major Wins and Millions in Critical Funding for St. Louis 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) voted YES on the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act. The bipartisan legislation specifies the annual budget and expenditures of the U.S. Department of Defense and included critical investment in the St. Louis defense workforce, a 3.8% raise for servicemembers, support for our allies abroad, and much needed oversight to hold Secretary of Defense Hegseth accountable. “While this bill is not perfect, it represents a significant and necessary step forward for our state and our nation," said Rep. Bell. "Crucially, it includes critical investments and oversight that will directly benefit the St. Louis region, securing a stronger future for the people I represent and for the country as a whole. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I am proud to champion the work the St. Louis region is doing everyday to support and strengthen our national security. No matter what, I will continue to fight to deliver for St. Louis and Missouri.” However, the final version of the bill was not without disappointing omissions. “Republicans, at Donald Trump’s direction, stripped out provisions protecting collective bargaining rights, expanding TRICARE coverage for IVF and fertility care, and safeguarding our efforts to ensure no military base honors Confederate traitors. I will continue fighting to restore these protections and deliver full accountability.” As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Rep. Bell was able to secure critical wins in the NDAA including: Investing in the St. Louis Workforce and Industry: Bringing home millions of dollars in programs that directly support the St. Louis defense industrial base and its skilled manufacturing workforce. Protecting and advancing next-generation defense systems built in St. Louis. Strengthening St. Louis’ rapidly growing geospatial and AI ecosystem, anchored by the new NGA West campus in North St. Louis, through expanded federal support for GEOINT, AI/ML, and cybersecurity initia… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-applauds-missouri-housing-development-commission Congressman Cleaver Applauds Missouri Housing Development Commission Investments in Parade Park Homes Redevelopment Project 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II released the following statement after the Missouri Housing Development Commission announced additional investments in the Parade Park Homes redevelopment project. “After securing $15 million in federal funding to support the redevelopment of Parade Park, I’m thrilled that the Missouri Housing Development Commission has approved a package of federal and state support, including $6,575,000 in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), $2,400,000 in HOME funds and $32 million in tax-exempt bond authority, demonstrating significant support for affordable housing. “Whether at the federal, state, or local level, Missourians are demanding action to expand the supply of affordable housing so that we can lower costs for hardworking families. Parade Park is a perfect example of what we can accomplish when collaboration occurs between the public and private sector. “As the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Housing & Insurance, I will continue pushing bipartisan reforms like my HOME Reform Act to ensure more affordable housing projects like Parade Park can move forward in the months and years ahead.” Since 2022, Congressman Cleaver has worked with HUD and local officials to stabilize Parade Park and chart a path to preserve affordable housing, ensuring the property was sold by HUD to the City of Kansas City for redevelopment last year. Following the City’s conveyance of the property to Twelfth Street Heritage Corporation, a non-profit, Rep. Cleaver has strongly advocated for additional investments to support redevelopment while ensuring it remains affordable to local and longtime residents. In January of this year, Rep. Cleaver announced $15,514,225 in federal grant funding through HUD’s Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program which supports the development, rehabilitation, and acquisition of housing for low-income elderly persons. ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which incl… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-raises-concerns-regarding-systemic-abuse-american Rep. Cleaver Raises Concerns Regarding Systemic Abuse at American Veterinary Schools, Calls for Information from Institutions 2025-12-10 2025 2025-12 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) raised concerns about allegations of systemic abuse at numerous veterinary schools across the country. In a letter to 36 veterinary medicine schools, Congressman Cleaver called on the institutions to provide information about their policies and procedures to better understand the issue and what can be done to ensure students are not being abused. Following several reports of troubling complaints, including patient care suffering due to 100-hour workweeks and students losing 15 pounds in a single month due to inadequate time to eat, Rep. Cleaver is pushing the universities to share information about what protections are in place for students, as well as how universities ensure students are not exploited for their free labor in the name of education. “I believe strongly that our higher education institutions should provide rigorous curriculums that guarantee students will receive the best education and experience possible, ensuring they are capable and qualified when they enter into the workforce,” said Congressman Cleaver. “However, just as we have taken steps to ensure colleges and universities are not taking advantage of student athletes for institutional monetary benefit, we must ensure that students at veterinary medicine schools are not being exploited. Unfortunately, with numerous allegations of abuse, it appears we have more work to do—and I’m hopeful that these institutions will provide information to address these concerns and ensure proper protections are in place.” The letter was delivered to the following universities: Auburn University; Colorado State University; Cornell University; Iowa State University; Kansas State University; Lincoln Memorial University; Long Island University; Louisiana State University; Michigan State University; Midwestern University; Mississippi State University; North Carolina State University; Oklahoma State University; Oregon State University; Purdue University; Rowan University; Texas A&M Univers… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-rose-introduce-bipartisan-bill-lower-housing-costs Reps. Cleaver, Rose Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Lower Housing Costs, Increase Supply Nationwide 2025-11-25 2025 2025-11 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, and John Rose (R-TN), along with Representatives Mike Flood (R-NE), Lou Correa (D-CA), Monica De La Cruz (R-TX), and Scott Peters (D-CA), introduced the Housing Supply Expansion Act of 2025. The legislation, which has broad bipartisan support, will remove a federal chassis requirement that has served to unnecessarily raise the price of manufactured housing. Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Sens. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Thom Tillis (R-NC). Since 1974, federal law has required that manufactured homes include a permanently installed chassis that allows it to be moved even after installation. This has significantly reduced the ability of young and low-income families to buy their own homes. Removing the permanent-chassis requirement for manufactured homes will lower construction costs, unlock modern design flexibility, and open far more locations for quality, affordable housing. “Manufactured housing is a key component to the nation's supply of quality, safe, and affordable housing,” said Ranking Member Cleaver. “By removing an outdated requirement that manufactured homes retain a permanent chassis, we can increase design innovation, reduce costs, and provide relief to more American families and communities. I look forward to working with Representative Rose and our colleagues to see this bipartisan, common sense update passed into law.” “Manufactured housing is a great way to get more families into homes that they own,” Rep. Rose said. “Rent prices across Tennessee continue to soar because demand for housing still far exceeds supply. By striking this outdated restriction on manufactured homes, my legislation will increase supply and ultimately help bring home prices down for everyone.” “In order to get more young families on the path towards achieving the American Dream, we need more single-family homes at affordable price points. Manufactured homes are one ty… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-leads-call-restore-displays-honoring-black-servicemembers Rep. Cleaver Leads Call to Restore Displays Honoring Black Servicemembers at the Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial 2025-11-24 2025 2025-11 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) led 33 House lawmakers in urging the administration to restore displays commemorating the contributions of Black soldiers at the Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial that were recently removed. In a letter to the Acting Secretary of the American Battle Monuments Commission, the lawmakers also requested information on why the displays were removed and the process that led to the decision. “More than one million African Americans fought in WWII, most of whom served in segregated units,” the lawmakers wrote. “They were willing to die for a country that didn’t dignify them with equal opportunities, accommodations, or recognition. Among the thousands of American soldiers laid to rest in Margraten are 172 Black servicemen. “Following a months-long crusade against diversity initiatives, including attacks on the National Museum of African American History and the removal of slavery exhibits in some national parks, this action marks this administration’s latest attempt to erase not only Black history, but our shared American history,” the lawmakers continued. “As our country commemorates its veterans this month, it is troubling to see the administration erase many of their contributions,” the lawmakers concluded. In addition to calling on the ABMC to restore the displays, the lawmakers requested response to the following questions: Why were the two displays removed from the Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial? Was the removal related to the administration’s anti-DEI initiatives? Does the ABMC intend to erase all exhibits acknowledging the accomplishments of Black servicemen? Does the ABMC no longer recognize the contributions made by the 960th QMSC? Are the sacrifices of the Black servicemen buried in Margraten no longer valued by the ABMC? Will the ABMC commit to putting the panels back on display? If so, when will the panels be put back on display? The letter was co-signed by Representatives Joyce Beatty (D-OH), Wesley Bell (D-M… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-barragan-introduce-food-assurance-and-security-act-restore-usdas-annual Bell, Barragán Introduce the Food Assurance and Security Act to Restore USDA’s Annual Food Access Report 2025-11-21 2025 2025-11 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.) introduced the Food Assurance and Security Act, legislation that reinstates and protects the federal government’s annual reporting on hunger and food insecurity in the United States. The bill requires the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in coordination with the Census Bureau, to maintain an interagency food security measurement program and publish comprehensive yearly data on household food insecurity—data that was halted under the Trump Administration after its historic cuts to SNAP. “Families across the country are struggling to put food on the table, and the last thing they need is a government trying to hide the full scope of hunger in America,” said Rep. Bell. “Restoring this report ensures we confront the real challenges people are facing instead of sweeping them under the rug.” “I am proud to co-lead this bill, which reinstates the annual food access report published by the USDA. The Trump administration ended this report right after they made the largest cuts to SNAP in history. This cannot be coincidence,” said Rep. Barragán. “Kicking hardworking Americans off SNAP means more people will be forced to go to food banks or shelters because basic groceries are too expensive. We cannot stand by and watch as the Trump Administration tries to hide the real harm of their cuts to food assistance by cancelling this report.” “Today’s introduction of the Food Assurance and Security Act comes as the Trump administration moves to erase the benchmark Household Food Security Report,” said Crystal FitzSimons, president of the Food Research & Action Center (FRAC). “This report has been our roadmap to understanding who is struggling to put food on the table, and the solutions needed to ensure no one goes hungry in the world's wealthiest nation. The most recent cuts to SNAP will undoubtedly deepen hunger and hardship. Eliminating this annual data will only hide the reality of hunger, not end it. We can't let this happen, espe… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cleaver-among-lawmakers-calling-trump-administration-stop-politicizing Cleaver Among Lawmakers Calling on Trump Administration to Stop Politicizing Houses of Worship; Defend Separation of Church and State Ahead of Court Arguments 2025-11-21 2025 2025-11 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), a Methodist Minister for over 5 decades, Representative James Clyburn (D-SC), Chairman of the Democratic Faith Working Group, and Representatives Jamie Raskin (D-MD) and Jared Huffman (D-CA), along with Senator Ron Wyden, Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee, led lawmakers in objecting to the Trump Administration’s attempts to exempt two specific organizations from the law. In a new letter to Acting Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service Scott Bessent, the lawmakers urged the Trump Administration to withdraw a proposed settlement in National Religious Broadcasters Association v. Bessent which carves out exceptions to the foundational principle of separation of church and state. For the past 70 years, a provision of the tax code known as the Johnson Amendment has insulated nonprofits, faith-based organizations and houses of worship from electoral politics. In order to qualify for 501(c)(3) status, nonprofits and houses of worship cannot engage in tax-exempt political speech. Despite widespread support for the Johnson Amendment among thousands of nonprofits and houses of worship, the Trump Administration reversed course on a lawsuit targeting the Johnson Amendment in an attempt to exempt two churches from complying with the law. “Congress has considered and rejected multiple attempts to modify the Johnson Amendment,” the lawmakers wrote. “Members have long understood the moral imperative of shielding nonprofit service organizations, including houses of worship, from electoral politics while protecting taxpayers from being compelled to subsidize political speech. Your Proposed Consent Decree is nothing more than a transparent end-run around Congress, which has consistently rejected attempts to change this 70-year-old law." “The Proposed Consent Decree seeks to exempt two specific organizations favored by the government out of the more than 1.5 million 501(c)(3) organizations in the United States from following the law,… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-delauro-and-30-house-lawmakers-call-additional-support Reps. Cleaver, DeLauro, and 30 House Lawmakers Call for Additional Support to Small and Specialty Farmers 2025-11-21 2025 2025-11 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), along with 30 other House Democrats, called on the Trump administration to include small and specialty crop farms if the Administration moves forward with any federal effort to provide economic relief for farm losses due to President Trump’s trade wars. “This is a crisis, and it is worsening every day,” the legislators wrote. “If your Administration moves forward with plans to provide economic relief to large farmers suffering due to high input costs and lost export markets, you must not forget about small and medium-sized farms, family farms, and specialty crop farmers. These farmers are vital to local economies and are the backbone of our nation’s food supply. They provide fresh fruit and vegetables to local stores, feed our families, and power rural communities by creating jobs and supporting local businesses. The loss of even more small farms will devastate communities, restrict the food supply, and have long-term economic and food security ramifications for the United States and for the world.” The president’s trade wars have closed access to critical foreign markets that American producers depend on, lowering the value of crops like soybeans, which are Missouri’s largest commodity crop, and driving up farm bankruptcies. The value of U.S. soybean exports to China never fully recovered after the U.S. tariff war with China in President Trump’s first term, when the value of U.S. soybean exports to China plunged from $14 billion in 2016 to $3.1 billion in 2018. At the same time the soybean markets are under threat, farmers are being hit with higher input costs from Trump’s tariff war. The letter was co-signed by Representatives Alma Adams (D-NC), Gabe Amo (D-RI), Becca Balint (D-VT), Sanford Bishop (D-GA), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Julia Brownley (D-CA), André Carson (D-IN), Ed Case (D-HI), Joe Courtney (D-CT), Shomari Figures (D-AL), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH), Josh Harder (D-CA), Jahana Hayes (D-CT), Chriss… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-booker-johnson-introduce-bill-end-forced-arbitration-race-0 Bell, Booker, Johnson Introduce Bill to End Forced Arbitration in Race Discrimination Cases 2025-11-20 2025 2025-11 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) along with U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J) introduced the Ending Forced Arbitration of Race Discrimination Act, legislation that gives workers and consumers the ability to take race discrimination claims to court rather than being pushed into private arbitration proceedings. “People who face racial discrimination deserve their day in court. They shouldn’t be pushed into a private process that was designed to protect corporations, not workers,” said Rep. Bell. “In St. Louis, we’ve lived with the consequences of systems that keep people from speaking out and seeking fair treatment. This bill does something simple by restoring a basic right that should never have been taken away.” “Thanks to Congressional Democrats and President Biden, victims of sexual assault and harassment now have the right to sue their employer in a court of law, rather than being forced into the secretive and pro-employer arbitration process,” said Rep. Johnson. “It’s high time for Congress to give that same protection to those alleging racial discrimination. Since 2007, I have worked to eliminate the use of unfair pre-dispute arbitration clauses that force consumers, workers, and small businesses into the secretive, for-profit, and pro-corporate arbitration process where the deck is stacked against the little guy. Because everyone deserves the right to choose between court and arbitration, I am pleased to join Senator Booker and Congressman Bell on the Ending Forced Arbitration for Race Discrimination Act.” “This legislation will put an end to forced arbitration clauses and allow people who have been harassed or mistreated because of their race to have their day in court,” said Sen. Booker. “No one who has faced discrimination because of their race should lose their right to seek justice simply because they were forced to sign an arbitration agreement. This is a long-overdue change in the law that will empower workers and others to fight back against… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-bacon-introduce-bipartisan-foster-youth-bill-rights Reps. Cleaver, Bacon Introduce Bipartisan Foster Youth Bill of Rights Resolution 2025-11-20 2025 2025-11 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) and Don Bacon (R-NE), members of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth, introduced a Foster Youth Bill of Rights Resolution to help ensure foster youth nationwide are informed about their rights while in foster care. While fifteen states and Puerto Rico have enacted their own Foster Youth Bill of Rights, foster youth rights vary from state to state, with most states providing no guaranteed foster rights at all. The bipartisan resolution is an effort to raise awareness for the existing rights that some states guarantee to foster youth, highlighting ten separate rights that should be afforded to foster youth nationwide. “Every child in America deserves to feel safe and valued, and we can make no exceptions for the children in our foster care system,” said Congressman Cleaver. “As we work to provide a legal framework for guaranteed protections that should be afforded to foster youth nationwide, I’m proud to introduce the Federal Foster Youth Bill of Rights with Congressman Bacon. Together, we will keep fighting to ensure these children receive the support and stability they deserve.” “As a foster to adopt parent I know foster youth are an at-risk population through no fault of their own, and it is our responsibility to not only protect them, but to help them get the best outcome possible,” said Rep. Bacon. “The creation of a Foster Youth Bill of Rights will empower them to effectively advocate for themselves and provide another layer of protections.” “The Foster Youth Bill of Rights affirms what every young person in foster care deserves: safety, dignity, equitable access to resources and opportunities, and a fair chance to build a bright future,” said Rebecca Louve Yao, CEO, National Foster Youth Institute. “As an organization focused on young adults transitioning out of foster care, we believe this bill strengthens the foundation they need to secure safe housing, pursue their education and careers, and enter adulthood with hope and confi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bipartisan-housing-insurance-subcommittee-leaders-highlight-proposed Bipartisan Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Leaders Highlight Proposed Major Reforms to Top Federal Housing Program 2025-11-19 2025 2025-11 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05) and Mike Flood (NE-01), Ranking Member and Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, hosted a press conference to highlight historic reforms they have introduced in the HOME Reform Act of 2025. The legislation marks the first major reforms to the HOME program since it was first authorized in 1990, streamlining regulations to strengthen public-private partnerships to encourage the building of more housing and rental properties in efforts to bring down the cost of housing. The bipartisan bill was introduced following a stakeholder input process conducted earlier this year. Details about the legislation are available here. “From the heartland to the coasts, hardworking families continue to struggle with the high cost of housing—and it is imperative that Congress take strong, comprehensive, and bipartisan action to boost the construction of affordable housing across the country,” said Ranking Member Cleaver (D-MO). “With overwhelming support from housing stakeholders, our HOME Reform Act takes major steps toward cutting the unnecessary red tape and strengthening public-private partnerships that will incentivize the development of affordable housing in communities nationwide. I’m proud to stand with Chairman Flood as we fight to lower housing costs, and I hope that lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and in both chambers of Congress will join us in this important effort.” “America is in the midst of a housing shortage as families struggle to live the American dream due to the lack of millions of homes,” said Chairman Flood (R-NE). “The HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. The HOME Reform Act of 2025 will cut the red tape that has been holding this program back. Dozens of stakeholders are throwing their support behind these reforms, building momentum to tackle our nation’s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-statement-after-supporting-release-epstein-files Rep. Cleaver’s Statement After Supporting Release of Epstein Files 2025-11-18 2025 2025-11 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after voting in favor of releasing the Epstein Files. Despite the Speaker’s months-long effort to block the bill from receiving a vote, the legislationmade it to the House Floor after every House Democrat and four House Republicans signed a discharge petition to force a vote. “The crimes committed by Jeffrey Epstein and his associates were disgusting, deplorable, and devastatingly damaging to dozens, if not hundreds, of young and vulnerable girls across the country. While it is deeply disappointing that the president and the Speaker of the House fought to prevent this bill from ever coming to the House floor, a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers came together to force a vote that will bring us another step closer toward providing justice to the victims and transparency to the American people. “I was proud to vote for the bill and the disclosure of the Epstein Files in the hopes that it would provide closure to the survivors. “However, this push for transparency does not end here. It is important that my colleagues in the Senate immediately pass this legislation to ensure it becomes law and the truth prevails.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-matsui-lead-80-lawmakers-urging-president-trump-restore-funding Bell, Matsui Lead 80+ Lawmakers Urging President Trump to Restore Funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting 2025-11-14 2025 2025-11 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and Doris Matsui (D-Calif.) led over 80 of their colleagues in sending a letter to President Donald J. Trump calling on his Administration to restore funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) following its elimination in the Rescissions Act of 2025. The lawmakers warn that cutting CPB funding will weaken local journalism, jeopardize public safety, and destabilize the federal appropriations process. CPB remains one of the nation’s most essential public services—connecting over 99% of Americans to emergency alerts, educational content, local culture, and trusted news. For many rural and low-income communities, public broadcasting is often the only reliable source of information. “Beyond its immediate harm to public broadcasting, the passage of this rescissions package sets a troubling precedent for the appropriations process,” wrote the lawmakers.“Retroactively clawing back funds that were already approved by Congress to serve partisan political purposes undermines the integrity of the regular, bipartisan budgeting process. This kind of maneuver could destabilize agencies, institutions, and workers who rely on a transparent, structured funding process.” “​​Protecting CPB resources remains essential not only for preserving public media but also for safeguarding the principles of transparency and accountability. We respectfully call on the administration to work collaboratively to restore services offered under CPB and ensure that public broadcasting can continue fulfilling its indispensable mission for all communities across the country” concluded the lawmakers. The letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.), Doris Matsui (D-Calif.), Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-Ga.), Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Mich.), Herbert C. Conaway, Jr. (D-N.J.), Bennie G. Thompson (D-Miss.), Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-Mo.), Nydia M. Velázquez (D-N.Y.), John Garamendi (D-Calif.), Dina Titus (D-Nev.), Ja… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-bell-celebrates-iam-district-837-boeing-contract-agreement STATEMENT: Bell Celebrates IAM District 837, Boeing Contract Agreement 2025-11-13 2025 2025-11 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) released the following statement after Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, District 837 voted to accept Boeing’s latest offer: "After 15 long weeks, I am glad to see IAM District 837 and Boeing reach a fair agreement that gets our highly skilled workers back on the job. I stood with these workers because the St. Louis region plays a pivotal role in our national security—thanks in large part to the men and women at Boeing who build some of the most sophisticated, technologically advanced aircraft that keep our nation safe and our military strong. These workers deserve wages and benefits that reflect the true value of their work, and this agreement is a major victory for them, their families, and the entire St. Louis region. Boeing has long been a cornerstone of our region’s economic success, and that success has always depended on the talent and dedication of its workforce. Now, the work continues to further advance our shared commitment to growth, stability, and a stronger future for our region and our country." Congressman Wesley Bell previously urged Boeing to work with the IAM union to reach a resolution by co-leading a letter to Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg alongside a bipartisan group of Representatives. ### 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-bell-votes-no-senate-amendment-hr-5371 STATEMENT: Bell Votes NO on Senate Amendment to H.R. 5371 2025-11-12 2025 2025-11 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) released the following statement following his NO vote on the Continuing Appropriations, Agriculture, Legislative Branch, Military Construction and Veteran Affairs, and Extensions Act, 2026: “I grew up seeing what it means when families in St. Louis can’t afford to see a doctor,” said Rep. Bell. “Health care isn’t something you can put off—and neither is this fight. I couldn’t support a deal that turns its back on working families and leaves millions facing higher costs. If Congress fails to act, premiums will rise astronomically, and families across St. Louis will be forced to go without coverage. Republicans now own those consequences, and the pain that comes with them.” ### 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-statement-senate-spending-bill Rep. Cleaver’s Statement on the Senate Spending Bill 2025-11-10 2025 2025-11 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement on the latest Senate spending proposal. “For months now, as Americans plead for reforms that will address our national cost-of-living crisis, Democrats have called on Republicans in control of the White House, House of Representatives, and Senate to work with Democrats in Congress to extend Affordable Care Act tax credits that lower health care costs for working-class families. However, instead of working in a bipartisan fashion to avoid a shutdown and protect the health care of the American people, Republicans chose to slash taxes for the wealthy and well-connected while making the largest cuts to Medicaid and food assistance programs in history. “From the very beginning of the Republican shutdown, I have said that I cannot support legislation that raises the health care costs of hardworking families across Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District. Unfortunately, the legislation proposed in the Senate will ensure that tens of thousands of my constituents see their health care premiums skyrocket, some by more than double what they are today. That is a heartless way to govern, particularly at a time when the president is giving $40 billion-dollar bailouts to Argentina and spending hundreds of millions to build a gilded ballroom at the White House. “Therefore, I will not support the legislation if it comes to a vote in the House of Representatives.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/housing-insurance-ranking-member-cleaver-and-chairman-flood-introduce Housing & Insurance Ranking Member Cleaver and Chairman Flood Introduce Bipartisan Legislation Modernizing HOME Program 2025-10-31 2025 2025-10 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) and Chairman Mike Flood (R-NE) introduced the HOME Reform Act of 2025, legislation that overhauls the HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The bipartisan legislation will streamline regulations to strengthen public-private partnerships in efforts to encourage the building of more housing and rental properties to bring down the cost of housing. “Americans in every community are struggling to stay afloat financially due to the high cost of housing, which is limiting opportunities for families to get ahead and weighing down local economies,” said Ranking Member Cleaver. “This is a crisis that demands immediate bipartisan action to lower costs, and I’m pleased to join Chairman Flood in the effort to provide relief nationwide. By revamping and revitalizing the HOME Program—one of our greatest tools to expand the supply of affordable housing for working-class families—we can ensure that affordable housing and the American Dream of homeownership are once again attainable from the heartland to the coasts. After months of meetings and hearings with local leaders, housing stakeholders, and American families from across the country, I’m proud to introduce the Home Reform Act with Chairman Flood to lower housing costs in Missouri and beyond.” “America is in the midst of a housing crisis as families struggle to live the American dream due to the of a shortage of millions of homes,” said Chairman Flood. “The HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has previously been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. Thanks to the insights of those who work directly with HOME, and the invaluable teamwork of my colleague Ranking Member Cleaver, I believe the HOME Reform Act of 2025 will cut the red tape that has been holding this program back. The reforms in this legislation will result in more homebuilding acro… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cleaver-pressley-warren-warnock-introduce-innovation-fund-act-bring Cleaver, Pressley, Warren, Warnock Introduce Innovation Fund Act to Bring Down Housing Costs by Incentivizing Communities to Build Housing 2025-10-30 2025 2025-10 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), along with Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, and Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA), introduced the Innovation Fund Act to establish a program to reward communities that are taking innovative steps to increase housing supply. The bill creates a competitive pot of highly flexible funding for communities that are building more housing, which can be used to improve community infrastructure, build housing, and supplement water and sewer grants. The bill is included in the landmark bipartisan ROAD to Housing Act, which recently passed the Senate in the FY2026 NDAA. The Innovation Fund Act: Will award competitive grants to cities, counties, other units of local government or Indian tribes that have demonstrated an objective improvement in housing supply. Requires applicants to describe how they are currently facilitating the expansion of their housing supply. Will prioritize eligible entities that demonstrate the use of innovative policies, interventions, or programs to increase housing supply. Allows eligible entities to use the funds to carry out CDBG eligible activities, as matching funds for water and sewer grants, and for initiatives that facilitate the expansion of the supply of attainable housing and supplement initiatives the eligible entity has carried out. Official bill text is available here. ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/president-trump-illegally-terminates-renewable-energy-initiative As President Trump Illegally Terminates Renewable Energy Initiative, Including $156 Million Investment in Missouri, Reps. Cleaver and Fletcher Lead Effort Demanding Administration Reverse Decision 2025-10-28 2025 2025-10 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX) led 100 of their Democratic colleagues in sending a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin, urging the Trump administration to restore the Inflation Reduction Act’s (IRA) Solar for All program. The Solar for All program is a $7 billion investment to help working families lower their electricity bills, strengthen local economies, and build a more resilient future. Missouri was designated to receive $156 million in federal funding to deliver solar and battery storage to thousands of low-income and working-class households across the Show Me State, saving families hundreds of dollars in energy costs annually. “We write to express our strong opposition to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) termination of the Solar for All program and rescission of lawfully obligated funding,” the lawmakers wrote. “This action is a clear violation of the law and must be rectified immediately. “States and nonprofit grant recipients have already spent years applying for these grants and developing solar programs in alignment with the goals and guidelines set forth by the program,” the lawmakers wrote. “Grant recipients have already invested millions of dollars in workforce development and community partnerships. EPA’s illegal termination of these grants is fostering economic uncertainty and sending a signal that the Federal government is an unreliable partner as we work to deliver real results for the American people. "The American people will bear the brunt of EPA’s actions,” the lawmakers continued. "Claims about saving taxpayer dollars ring false for the working families dealing with skyrocketing energy costs. Recission of these grants will rob families of energy savings, will result in job losses, and will halt the expected economic benefits communities were counting on. These reckless actions will weaken our electric grid at a time when reliability and resilience are more critical than ever.… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-bacon-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-establish-national-day-deployed Bell, Bacon Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Establish a National Day of the Deployed 2025-10-27 2025 2025-10 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and Don Bacon (R-Neb.) introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate October 26 as a day of recognition honoring all U.S. service members currently deployed overseas and the families who support them at home. The observance would formally recognize the sacrifices made by deployed servicemembers who serve far from home, often in harm’s way, as well as their loved ones who shoulder the burden of separation and uncertainty in their absence. “Behind every service-member serving abroad is a family that serves alongside them,” said Rep. Bell. “Everyday, our men and women in uniform risk their lives to defend our freedoms and democracy. A national day of recognition for their service and for their families is a simple but meaningful way to say thank you—to acknowledge their courage, commitment, and sacrifice, and to remind the country that freedom requires service, both seen and unseen.” “The American men and women who are deployed around the globe to protect and defend our national interests are the front lines of defense for our democracy,” said Rep. Bacon. “I gladly served and deployed for my country. The all-volunteer force underpins everything we hold sacred as a nation, and the fact that they and their families sacrifice so much for our freedoms is a testament to their dedication. This recognition of the ‘Day of the Deployed’ is the least we can do for them.” Read the full bill here. ### 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-calls-department-energy-reinstate-furloughed-nuclear Rep. Cleaver Calls on Department of Energy to Reinstate Furloughed Nuclear Employees 2025-10-27 2025 2025-10 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced that he joined 26 House Democrats in condemning the Department of Energy’s decision to furlough nearly 80% of the National Nuclear Security Administration federal workforce, which has never happened before despite multiple government shutdowns throughout the agency’s 25-year history. In a letter to Energy Secretary Chris Wright, the lawmakers demanded information on the national security implications of the decision and called on the Secretary to immediately rescind the furloughs. “We write to express our deep concern about the furlough of nearly 80% of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) federal workforce,” wrote the lawmakers. “Furloughing the vast majority of the agency’s personnel is not only an unprecedented step, it is deeply harmful to U.S. national security. While the Republicans’ government shutdown continues, we are also troubled that this announcement appears to be politically motivated rather than the result of careful deliberations amidst a funding shortfall.” “From maintaining and modernizing our nuclear weapons stockpile, to overseeing the Navy’s nuclear propulsion, and managing nuclear nonproliferation programs, the United States is safer because of the dedicated public servants at NNSA, who have already been under attack by this Administration,” the lawmakers continued. “These federal employees play a critical oversight role in ensuring that the work required to maintain nuclear security is carried out in accordance with longstanding policy and the law. Undermining the agency’s workforce at such a challenging time for U.S. global leadership diminishes our credible deterrence, emboldens our international adversaries, and makes the world a more dangerous place.” “While Republicans have failed to use their governing mandate to keep the government open, we implore you to ensure that national security is not sacrificed as a consequence of their inaction. We urgently demand that you rescind this furl… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-joins-house-democrats-urging-usda-take-immediate-action Rep. Cleaver Joins House Democrats in Urging USDA to Take Immediate Action to Fund SNAP 2025-10-24 2025 2025-10 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) joined Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (D-CT) and 212 other House Democrats in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins, urging the agency to use contingency reserve dollars to fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the government shutdown. With no resolution to a bipartisan path forward to reopen the government, SNAP funding is set to lapse on November 1st, putting 42 million children and families at risk of experiencing hunger, including more than 655,000 in Missouri. There is enough in the SNAP contingency reserve to cover nearly two-thirds of the amount needed for a full month of benefits. As such, the Members also advocate for the agency to use statutory transfer authority or any other legal means to supplement shortfalls the contingency reserve cannot cover. “Now more than ever, millions of families across the country depend upon the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to make ends meet. For far too many veterans, seniors, and children, SNAP benefits are the difference between having food or not,” wrote the lawmakers. “Now, due to the government shutdown, they are facing crippling levels of uncertainty about whether they will be able to afford food next month. A potential lapse in benefits would be felt by Americans of all ages and affect every corner and congressional district in the country.” “We urge USDA to use these funds for November SNAP benefits and issue clear guidance to states on how to navigate benefit issuance. Additionally, while the contingency reserve will not cover November benefits in full, we urge USDA to use its statutory transfer authority or any other legal authority at its disposal to supplement these dollars and fully fund November benefits. There are clear steps the administration can and must take immediately to ensure that millions of families across the country can put food on their table in November. Choosing not to ensure SNAP… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-tokuda-horsford-lead-colleagues-urging-pentagon-reverse-discriminatory Bell, Tokuda, Horsford Lead Colleagues in Urging Pentagon to Reverse Discriminatory Shaving Waiver Policy 2025-10-23 2025 2025-10 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.), Jill Tokuda (D-Hawaii), and Steven Horsford (D-Nev.) led 39 of their colleagues in sending a letter to Secretary of Defense Peter Hegseth condemning the Department of Defense’s decision to administratively separate service members with long-term medical shaving waivers. The lawmakers warned that the policy will disproportionately harm Black service members, undermine troop morale, and needlessly reduce military readiness. Medical shaving waivers are granted to protect service members with conditions such as pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB)—a chronic skin condition that disproportionately affects Black men—from physical harm caused by shaving. Studies show that between 45 and 83 percent of Black service members experience PFB, compared to much lower rates among other populations. "We write to you regarding your recent announcement that service members with medical shaving waivers lasting longer than one year will be processed for administrative separation and may be involuntarily separated from the Armed Forces. This decision is unjust, discriminatory in impact, and corrosive to both the readiness and morale of our Armed Forces," wrote the lawmakers. "Unfortunately, this policy does not increase troop readiness or make our Armed Forces a more effective, leaner, and more lethal military. In fact, forcing high-performing members with PFB to separate will decrease troop morale and will result in the loss of experienced members of our Armed Forces, including those in critical skill fields who are impossible to replace in the near term, which, unlike shaving waivers, would decrease the capacity of the military to meet its missions. This is a significant loss of talent, training, and taxpayer investment. Worse, it sends the damaging message that troops are disposable when their medical needs do not conform to your narrow and rigid rules," continued the lawmakers. "We urge you to immediately suspend implementation of this policy and develop a fairer, more just… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-introduces-fema-operations-continuity-act-protect-disaster-relief-during Bell Introduces FEMA Operations Continuity Act to Protect Disaster Relief During Government Shutdowns 2025-10-21 2025 2025-10 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) introduced the FEMA Operations Continuity Act of 2025 to ensure that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can continue delivering disaster relief, recovery, and mitigation assistance during a lapse in government funding. This bill would authorize FEMA to maintain essential operations funded through the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF)—including individual and public assistance programs—so families and communities impacted by natural disasters are not left behind during a government shutdown. “This spring, the St. Louis region was hit by devastating tornadoes, and we couldn’t have afforded to wait for assistance any longer than we did. Families rebuilding their lives after a disaster should never have to wait for Congress to get its act together before receiving life-saving help,” said Rep. Bell. “This bill guarantees that FEMA’s essential work continues uninterrupted during a government shutdown—because protecting human life and property should never be subject to drama in Washington.” The legislation would further prohibit the diversion or withholding of DRF funds during a lapse in appropriations and explicitly classifies FEMA’s disaster response activities as essential functions under the Anti-Deficiency Act, exempting them from shutdown restrictions. Read the bill text here. ### 1 2026-03-31T05:33:41Z 2026-03-31T05:34:51Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cleaver-36-house-democrats-urge-administration-end-tariff-fueled Cleaver, 36 House Democrats Urge Administration to End Tariff-Fueled Economic Assault on Soybean Farmers 2025-10-17 2025 2025-10 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Sean Casten, along with 35 other House Democrats, called on the president to end the reckless tariff policies that are devastating American soybean farmers across the country. In a letter to the president, the lawmakers highlighted the significant negative economic impact of his tariffs on soybean farmers and urged the president to immediately terminate them before more harm is done. Soybeans are Missouri’s largest commodity crop, with over five million acres dedicated to soybeans each year, providing $2.5 billion in economic value. In addition to levying harmful tariffs, the administration also shut down a major soybean research project earlier this year. “Soybeans are the backbone of American agriculture, contributing over $31 billion to the U.S. economy during the 2023-2024 crop year. In 2024, China purchased more than half of all U.S. soybean exports, amounting to $12.6 billion,” the lawmakers wrote. “However, in response to the tariffs you imposed earlier this year, China levied retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imports and has halted all U.S. soybean purchases since May. As a result, American farmers are at risk of becoming collateral damage in your trade war.” The United States’ largest soybean trading partner has not purchased soybeans since May due to President Trump’s tariffs and has instead chosen to buy soybeans from Brazil and Argentina. At the same time, President Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently announced that the Administration would provide $20 billion in taxpayer money to bail out Argentina, which further endangers the U.S. soybean industry by providing financial support to a leading American competitor. These actions threaten the long-term access to foreign markets for U.S. producers. The value of U.S. soybean exports to China never fully recovered after the U.S. tariff war with China in President Trump’s first term, when the value of U.S. soybean exports to China plunged from $14 billion in 201… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-calls-administration-renew-grant-funding-head-start Congressman Cleaver Calls on Administration to Renew Grant Funding for Head Start Programs in Western Missouri 2025-10-16 2025 2025-10 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) called on the administration to immediately renew grant funding obligated for Head Start programs in Jackson, Clay, and Platte counties in western Missouri. While Head Start programs have operated as normal during the federal shutdown, the grant recipient, Mid-America Regional Council (MARC), has not yet received the necessary Notice of Award to continue grant funding after October 31. The Health and Human Services Department (HHS), which oversees Head Start, has also experienced numerous staffing cuts since the start of the year, as well as a recent effort to fire almost 1,000 employees at HHS, including almost 50 at the Administration of Children and Families. “I am writing today regarding the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC), a current grant recipient and administrator of funds for the Head Start program in the 5th Congressional District. I have serious and urgent concern regarding the lapse in the Notification of Award for the upcoming program period,” Congressman Cleaver wrote. “Without this notice, MARC cannot incur any expenses for Head Start after October 31, unless there is certainty of reimbursement.” “This means that over 2300 children enrolled in Head Start programs in the three-county area will be without funding and services on November 1. It also jeopardizes staff retention, family engagement and the developmental support that is provided to children enrolled in Head Start programs,” Congressman Cleaver continued. “I am respectfully requesting clarification on the status of Notification of Award and any available guidance for MARC regarding next steps in the grant award notification process. I greatly appreciate your attention to this matter and your continued support of early childhood programs that serve some of the 5th Congressional District’s most vulnerable residents,” Congressman Cleaver concluded. In Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, Head Start serves more than 2,300 children and employs 500 people. The … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-joins-bipartisan-call-urging-trump-administration-follow Rep. Cleaver Joins Bipartisan Call Urging Trump Administration to Follow Law on Back Pay for Furloughed Federal Workers 2025-10-15 2025 2025-10 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) joined U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), along with U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA), Steny Hoyer (D-MD), and 163 other lawmakers, in urging Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought to follow the law—which president Trump signed in 2019—that requires furloughed federal employees to receive back pay during a government shutdown. Despite this explicit law, President Trump and Director Vought have continued to bully and target our dedicated federal workforce, including by threatening to illegally withhold back pay after the shutdown ends. In a bipartisan letter to Director Vought, the lawmakers underscore that the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act of 2019, which was passed and signed into law during the last shutdown under President Trump, is clear that all federal employees, whether they are excepted or furloughed, are entitled to back pay after a government shutdown ends. There are more than 30,000 federal workers that reside in Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District. “During the 2018-2019 shutdown, we worked with President Trump to enact the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act (GEFTA) of 2019, the intent of which is clear – federal employees are entitled to retroactive pay in the event of a government shutdown. We applauded President Trump for signing this bipartisan bill into law,” the members wrote. “The law is clear: all impacted government employees, regardless of excepted or furloughed status, are entitled to back pay after a government shutdown ends, which is consistent with the guidance currently provided by federal agencies, including the Office of Personnel Management (OPM),” the members wrote. “OPM’s shutdown guidance from September 2025 still states that furloughed federal workers will be provided back pay once the government reopens.” The members continued, “The decision by OMB to remove critical guidance on federal employee back pay is causing unnecessary stress for the f… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-statement-senate-passage-bipartisan-road-housing-act Rep. Cleaver’s Statement on Senate Passage of bipartisan ROAD to Housing Act 2025-10-10 2025 2025-10 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, released the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed the bipartisan Renewing Opportunity in the American Dream (ROAD) to Housing Act as part of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, which includes legislation sponsored by Rep. Cleaver. “American families are struggling with the rising cost of housing, healthcare, groceries, utilities, education, and other everyday expenses. However, rent and mortgage costs remain the largest single expense for American households, and a growing number of Americans are burdened by unsustainably high housing costs, with far too many sacrificing necessities, accepting affordable but substandard housing, or entering homelessness. “I applaud Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren, Chairman Tim Scott, and the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, for working with the Senate to pass the bipartisan ROAD to Housing Act, which will improve housing affordability and boost housing supply. The package includes several bills I have co-written with my Senate colleagues, including key legislation to improve USDA rural housing programs, revitalize HUD housing programs, and incentivize state and local zoning reforms – all of which are necessary to lower housing costs for Missouri families. “Americans want a Congress that cooperates, solves problems, and improves their lives. That means fighting when we must but also working together where we can. Housing is not a Democratic or Republican issue, or a rural or urban issue, as all Americans need a home. Young Americans still long for the American Dream of upward mobility through homeownership. As Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, I will work with my colleagues to ensure much needed and long overdue housing legislation is passed into law during this Congress.” Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-shares-resources-federal-workers-faqs-missourians Congressman Cleaver Shares Resources for Federal Workers, FAQs for Missourians Harmed by Latest Republican Shutdown 2025-10-06 2025 2025-10 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) shared a webpage with resources to assist federal workers and contractors impacted by the latest Republican shutdown, including the more than 30,000 that reside in Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District. The shutdown comes following President Trump and Republicans’ failure to negotiate a bipartisan funding bill that would keep the government running and prevent Missourians from seeing their health care premiums skyrocket. The webpage also includes Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for constituents inquiring about how the federal shutdown will impact the services they rely on. “It is deeply frustrating that President Trump and Republicans in control of the House and Senate have once again failed to keep the government open and running for the American people, which not only harms the federal workers who are being furloughed in Missouri and all over the country, but also undermines essential services that seniors and families depend on,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Even worse, as Americans face the consequences of the latest Republican shutdown dragging into its second week, the president has been on the golf course and House Republicans are spending another week on vacation instead of in Washington. “As I continue working to pass a bipartisan budget bill that resumes government operations, returns public servants to work, and prevents a massive rise in healthcare costs for Missourians in my congressional district, I wanted to provide my constituents with some resources that can be of assistance to them in this difficult time.” The Federal Shutdown Resource Page is available here. Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-statement-latest-republican-shutdown Rep. Cleaver’s Statement on Latest Republican Shutdown 2025-10-01 2025 2025-10 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after the federal government officially shut down for the first time since the last Trump administration. “With Republicans in control of the House of Representatives, Senate, and White House, I am deeply disappointed that my colleagues across the aisle have failed to do their job of keeping the government open and services running for hardworking families. “If Congress does not extend Affordable Care Act enhanced premium tax credits now, hundreds of thousands of people will lose their health care and millions more will see their costs skyrocket. Despite weeks of calls for a bipartisan compromise that would prevent a harmful shutdown and address the looming healthcare crisis, my Republican colleagues refused to negotiate a bipartisan spending bill to fund the federal government and ensure health care premiums do not more than double for millions of Americans. Instead, they attempted to jam a partisan spending bill through Congress and then went on vacation as federal appropriations ran out. “I have always said that democracy demands compromise. It is time for my friends across the aisle to come back to Washington, negotiate in good faith, and find a bipartisan solution that will end this unnecessary and harmful shutdown before more damage is done.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-carbajal-bacon-introduce-bipartisan-baltic-security-assessment-act Bell, Carbajal, Bacon Introduce Bipartisan Baltic Security Assessment Act to Strengthen National Security and Support NATO Allies 2025-09-23 2025 2025-09 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.), Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.), and Don Bacon (R-Neb.), introduced the Baltic Security Assessment Act of 2025, a bipartisan measure to ensure the United States maintains a clear, comprehensive understanding of the threats facing Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania from hostile actors, including Russia, China, Iran, Belarus, and North Korea. Under the legislation, the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, will be required to deliver a detailed report to Congress within 180 days assessing emerging military, cyber, hybrid, and political threats to the Baltic nations. The report will also identify opportunities to strengthen U.S.–Baltic defense cooperation, reinforce the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s (NATO) collective defense posture, bolster cybersecurity infrastructure, and enhance democratic resilience in the region. “Putin’s unprovoked war on Ukraine is a stark reminder that our Baltic allies are on the frontlines of the fight for freedom and democracy,” said Rep. Bell. “The Baltic Security Assessment Act will give the United States a clear picture of the threats facing Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, and strengthen our ability to support them. This bipartisan bill reinforces NATO’s collective defense and ensures we stand united against those who seek to undermine freedom.” “The Baltic nations have witnessed firsthand the reality of Soviet oppression and today stand as beacons of democracy in the face of increasing threats from Russia and its allies. I'm grateful to co-lead the Baltic Security Assessment Act of 2025, which strengthens our commitment to our steadfast allies Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania,” said Rep. Bacon, co-chair of the House Baltic Caucus. “This bipartisan legislation will improve our understanding of emerging military, cyber, and hybrid threats to the Baltic states through a comprehensive assessment, while reaffirming America's unwavering support for these vital NATO partners.” “Russia’s unprovoked … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-senator-durbin-introduce-spur-housing-act-increase-housing Rep. Cleaver, Senator Durbin Introduce the SPUR Housing Act to Increase Housing Supply and Economic Development 2025-09-19 2025 2025-09 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) - Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, and U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) jointly announced the introduction of the Sparking Production of Urban and Rural (SPUR) Housing Act. The SPUR Housing Act establishes a fund to increase the capacity of emerging developers – those with limited development experience and limited resources – who are undertaking affordable housing and community development projects. The funds are made available through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in the form of competitive grants for nonprofit housing organizations and community development financial institutions (CDFIs) providing financing, capacity-building training, and technical assistance to eligible emerging developers. “The road to lowering housing costs for the American people begins with the increase in construction of affordable housing,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Emerging developers, including many minority developers who have faced historical barriers to entry, need access to the tools and resources necessary to build affordable housing in their communities. By providing these developers with the support to pursue projects in rural and urban communities alike, we can create good-paying jobs, increase our national housing supply, and drive down prices for hardworking families. I’m proud to introduce the SPUR Housing Act with Senator Durbin as we fight to lower housing costs for communities in the heartland and all across this great nation.” “Despite there being more than 112,000 real estate development companies in the United States, only one percent are owned by Black and Latino developers. This great divide is spurred by unequal access to capital for minority developers, who often are competing against generational wealth. Many of these developers are subjected to onerous equity and experience requirements that make it nearly impossible for them to secure financial backing for their proj… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-against-partisan-budget-bill-continues-republican Rep. Cleaver Votes Against Partisan Budget Bill that Continues Republican Assault on Americans’ Healthcare and Includes Cuts to Previously Agreed Upon Programs 2025-09-19 2025 2025-09 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) - Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after voting against the partisan Continuing Resolution (CR) that continues the Republican assault on Americans’ healthcare and includes cuts to the previously negotiated bipartisan budget. “Republicans in the House of Representatives are following the orders of President Trump and refusing to negotiate a bipartisan budget with Democrats, choosing instead to jam a partisan CR through Congress that will continue their decimation of Americans’ healthcare, as well as cuts to important programs that were previously negotiated on a bipartisan basis. “The number one thing I hear from families in Missouri is the rising cost of healthcare and housing. I cannot in good conscience support a partisan budget bill that will cause my constituents in Missouri to see their healthcare costs skyrocket—which is precisely what this legislation would do. Moreover, as the administration continues to cut programs that were funded on a bipartisan basis, any budget bill must include safeguards that prevent more partisan cuts after a deal is struck. “Democracy demands compromise. If Republicans in Congress want the votes of Democratic lawmakers, they cannot cut us out of the process completely. Before they force another harmful shutdown, my colleagues across the aisle must come back to the negotiating table and work with Democrats to craft a bipartisan budget bill that addresses the unsustainable rise in healthcare costs and the needs of our communities.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-statement-charlie-kirk-resolution Rep. Cleaver’s Statement on Charlie Kirk Resolution 2025-09-19 2025 2025-09 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement on the Charlie Kirk Resolution. “As John Donne said in his famous poem, ‘any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind.’ “I reject and resent the savagery of the man who killed Charlie Kirk. When we resort to violence as a means of expressing opposition to another’s politics, we are actually downgrading our own. I condemn political violence in all forms and from all perpetrators, including the heinous murder of Mr. Kirk. “Mr. Kirk’s statements about African American women and other Black people demands me to reject his racial insensitivity. Therefore, because I fundamentally disagreed with many of Mr. Kirk’s views, I voted against today’s resolution on the grounds that it lionized a legacy I cannot support.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-calls-new-postage-stamp-honor-late-congressman-william-lacy-clay-sr Bell Calls for New Postage Stamp to Honor the Late Congressman William Lacy Clay Sr. 2025-09-18 2025 2025-09 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) introduced the William Lacy Clay Sr. Memorial Stamp Act to create a commemorative postage stamp in honor of the late William Lacy Clay Sr. “William Lacy Clay Sr. was a giant—not just for St. Louis, not just for Missouri, but for the entire country,” said Congressman Bell. “He spent more than three decades in Congress fighting for civil rights, for working people, and for those too often left out or unheard. His legacy lives on in the movement he helped build, the Black lawmakers he helped lift up, and the community he never stopped serving. A commemorative stamp is a small but lasting way to honor his enormous impact—and to remind future generations of the values he stood for.” William Lacy “Bill” Clay Sr., the first African-American elected to Congress from Missouri, represented St. Louis in the U.S. House for more than three decades. A former civil rights activist and union organizer, he championed the rights of poor and working-class Americans, fought discrimination, and helped found the Congressional Black Caucus. Known for his unwavering commitment to principle, Clay left an indelible mark on labor rights, education, and civil rights legislation. He retired in 2001 and was succeeded by his son, Congressman William Lacy Clay Jr., continuing a family legacy of public service. Read the full bill text here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-condemns-passage-mid-decade-redistricting-missouri Rep. Cleaver Condemns Passage of Mid-Decade Redistricting by Missouri Legislature 2025-09-12 2025 2025-09 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after the Missouri Legislature formally passed legislation to enact mid-decade redistricting in Missouri without an updated census. “Despite tens of thousands of Missourians taking the time to call their state lawmakers and travel to Jefferson City to voice their opposition, Republicans in the Missouri Legislature followed the marching orders dictated by power brokers in D.C. and took the unprecedented step of enacting mid-decade redistricting without an updated census. “While I’m grateful to the lawmakers in both parties who refused to go along with this power grab, I’m deeply disappointed that Missouri’s Legislature put the wishes of Washington above the voices of their own constituents and the needs of our communities. Whether it is families in Kansas City, the labor community, the business community, or the faith community, I know that the people of Missouri share in that disappointment. “However, I want to be very clear to those who are frustrated by today’s outcome: this fight is far from over. Together, in the courts and in the streets, we will continue pushing to ensure the law is upheld, justice prevails, and this unconstitutional gerrymander is defeated.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-colleagues-lead-bipartisan-gateway-partnership-act Bell, Colleagues Lead Bipartisan Gateway Partnership Act 2025-09-11 2025 2025-09 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and Ann Wagner (R-Mo.) introduced the bipartisan Gateway Partnership Act of 2025, legislation that would allow the National Park Service to work directly with the Gateway Arch Park Foundation to host private events in Park buildings — turning underused public space into an economic and cultural engine for the city. “The Arch is one of the most iconic places in America — and it’s ours,” said Congressman Bell. “For generations it has been where we welcome visitors, celebrate our history, and show off the heart of St. Louis. This bill helps us make better use of the space — not just to host events, but to keep driving energy, investment, and life into downtown. I am proud to introduce this commonsense bipartisan bill which will foster regional growth for St. Louis.” The Gateway Arch Park Foundation — which led the $380 million CityArchRiver Project that transformed Gateway Arch National Park— has supported numerous successful events at the Arch grounds. Demand for access to these revitalized spaces continues to grow. This legislation gives the Foundation a formal role in coordinating private event use in partnership with the National Park Service, including at the Gateway Arch Visitor Center and the Old Courthouse. “We’ve proven that events at Gateway Arch National Park create positive impact for Downtown St. Louis and our entire region. This legislation will make hosting private events much easier going forward,” said Ryan McClure, executive director of Gateway Arch Park Foundation.“Each gathering brings new visitors and economic activity to St. Louis, in an iconic setting that undeniably represents our city to the entire world. We are incredibly grateful to Representatives Bell, Wagner and Budzinski and Sen. Eric Schmitt for their support for this initiative.” Read the full bill here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-graves-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-designate-0 Reps. Cleaver, Graves Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Designate September as National Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Month 2025-09-11 2025 2025-09 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Sam Graves (R-MO) introduced a resolution to designate September as "National Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Month”, hoping to raise awareness and understanding of polycystic kidney disease (PKD) while calling for additional research to develop new treatments and ultimately a cure. Congressman Cleaver previously introduced the bipartisan resolution last year with fellow Missouri lawmaker Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MO). “With roughly 600,000 Americans impacted by PKD across the United States, and roughly fifty percent of those impacted experiencing kidney failure by age sixty, it is imperative that we take action to combat this vicious disease,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I’m proud to join my friend Rep. Graves to introduce a resolution that will designate the entire month of September as National Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Month in the hopes of bringing attention and spurring additional research that can help find new treatments that will save lives.” “Polycystic kidney disease affects many Americans, but isn’t often talked about," said Congressman Graves. “With additional research, we will be able to develop new treatments to help those diagnosed with PKD live a better, longer life, and hopefully a cure. I’m proud to join Rep. Cleaver to bring attention and awareness for all who are living with this devastating disease." PKD is one of the most prevalent genetic kidney disorders in the United States, affecting approximately 600,000 Americans nationwide. With very few treatments and no cure for PKD, the disease is one of the four leading causes of kidney failures in the United States, with nearly fifty percent of individuals with PKD experiencing kidney failure by the age of 60. This month, Congressman Cleaver was awarded the 2024 Congressional Champion of the Year Award by the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation for his leadership in PKD awareness and support for research and development of new PKD treatments. Offic… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-bell-votes-no-fy26-national-defense-authorization-act STATEMENT: Bell Votes NO on FY26 National Defense Authorization Act 2025-09-10 2025 2025-09 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) released the following statement after voting NO on the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act: “As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, we have spent the past nine months working on a bipartisan national defense bill that increases pay for our service members, strengthens defense acquisition, and safeguards our national security. However, the version of the bill on the floor did not include any meaningful Democratic amendments that address urgent threats to our security and to the integrity of our armed forces. House Republicans are ignoring the serious abuses being done by the Trump Administration: deploying the military for domestic law enforcement, claiming unchecked power to define threats and launch military action, and politicizing the armed forces by dismissing qualified leaders who served with honor. It strips away inspectors general charged with rooting out waste and misconduct, sidelines senior military lawyers who uphold justice, and removes top experts in areas like cyber defense—all because they were deemed not loyal enough to Trump. Such actions weaken oversight, degrade readiness, and jeopardize our security. Instead of advancing the bipartisan bill that left committee with overwhelming support—House Republicans have kneeled to Trump and turned a bipartisan bill into one that is filled with culture war filled topics. For those reasons, I voted NO.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-thanedar-lawler-introduce-bipartisan-988-day-resolution Bell, Thanedar, Lawler Introduce Bipartisan 988 Day Resolution 2025-09-09 2025 2025-09 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Yesterday, U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.), Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.), and Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) introduced the bipartisan 988 day resolution to raise awareness of the lifesaving role of the suicide & crisis lifeline. A companion resolution has been introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and John Kennedy (R-La.). The House’s 988 Day resolution is part of a broader legislative package highlighting the importance of suicide prevention. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline was launched nationwide in July 2022 to provide an easy-to-remember number for people experiencing suicidal thoughts, mental health challenges, or substance use crises. The hotline has serviced the most vulnerable communities including veterans, LGBTQI+ youth, and non english speaking individuals. By dialing 988, people are connected to trained crisis counselors who provide free and confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Since its launch, millions of calls, texts, and chats have been answered, making 988 a cornerstone of America’s mental health safety net. “988 has already saved lives, but too many people still don’t know it’s there when they need it,” said Congressman Wesley Bell. “In Missouri and across the country, families are carrying the weight of losing loved ones to suicide. Setting aside a day to lift up 988 is about making sure that in the darkest moments, people know they have somewhere to turn.” “In 1996, I lost my first wife to mental health struggles. That loss left my family devastated in ways words cannot capture,” said Congressman Thanedar. “It’s why I have made mental health a top priority during my time in Congress. This resolution honors the lifesaving work of 988 and calls for greater outreach so high-risk communities know support is always within reach.” “In the Hudson Valley, like so many communities across the country, families have been devastated by suicide, from young people in our schools to veterans who served our nation. This resolution isn’t just symbol… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-ansari-introduce-healthy-servicemembers-act-protect-military-families Bell, Ansari Introduce Healthy Servicemembers Act to Protect Military Families from Unsafe Housing 2025-09-04 2025 2025-09 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and Yassamin Ansari (D-Ariz.) introduced the Healthy Servicemembers Act, which directs the Secretary of Defense to screen and register service members and their families who develop medical conditions resulting from living in unsafe military housing. The bill requires military treatment facilities to screen eligible individuals for health conditions linked to substandard housing, establish a registry to track affected individuals and related health issues, and launch a public information campaign to raise awareness about the registry and available resources. “Too many military families have had their health put on the line because of unsafe housing. That’s unacceptable,” said Congressman Wesley Bell. “If you serve this country, you ought to know your home is safe and that if problems do arise, they’ll be taken seriously." This bill makes sure the Department of Defense steps up and takes responsibility for the people who sacrifice for us every day. “Our servicemembers sacrifice so much to keep our nation safe and the last thing that they should ever struggle with is unsafe military housing that puts their literal health at risk. Our bill would help ensure a quicker response to health problems caused by unsafe housing, raise awareness, and make sure servicemembers and their families get the protections they deserve.” said Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari. Read the full text of the bill here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/following-push-reps-cleaver-and-davids-freedoms-frontier-national Following Push from Reps. Cleaver and Davids, Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area Secures Federal Funding Passed by Congress 2025-09-04 2025 2025-09 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Following a call from U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Sharice Davids (D-KS) to restore federal funding obligated to Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area (FFNHA), the FFNHA received its full federal funding for 2025 that had been frozen by the Department of Interior earlier this year. The announcement comes just weeks before the end of the federal fiscal year, when funds would have otherwise expired, ensuring uninterrupted support for local history projects, educational programs, and community partnerships across western Missouri and eastern Kansas. “Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area plays a prominent role across the region in working with local partners to preserve our history and promote economic development that is vital to our communities,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Despite a regrettable delay, I’m pleased that Freedom’s Frontier has secured the funding provided by Congress and will now be capable of continuing their mission to tell our story to visitors from around the world while boosting economic activity.” “Freedom’s Frontier is more than a collection of historic sites — it’s a living story of who we are in the region. I’m glad we were able to secure this critical funding so that local partners can keep preserving our history, educating the next generation, and boosting our regional economy. This is what happens when communities speak up and we work together to get things done,” said Representative Sharice Davids. “Because of the dedication and advocacy of our friends and partners across the region, we are now able to continue our core mission of promoting tourism and economic development in rural Kansas and Missouri,” said Lucinda Adams, executive director of FFNHA. “Your calls and conversations with your representatives mattered. We are deeply grateful.” Despite being signed into law in March, federal funding for NHAs — including the Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area (FFNHA) in western Missouri and eastern Kansas — had been frozen for near… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-bell-slams-missouri-special-session-redistrict Statement: Bell Slams Missouri Special Session to Redistrict 2025-08-29 2025 2025-08 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper “The Governor's special session is about power. Trump has the lowest approval rating in modern history, and Republicans know they can’t win fairly so they're cheating. They’re trying to erase Congressman Cleaver’s seat, erase voters, and erase accountability. This is the new Republican playbook: bend the knee to a failed president, tear down anything that gets in their way, and cling to power by silencing voices they can’t beat at the ballot box. It’s not politics as usual anymore. It’s a raw fight between democracy and tyranny. Congressman Cleaver is my friend and my ally. And I’ll stand with him—and with every Missourian whose voice they’re trying to silence—because this isn’t just about one district. It’s about whether we’re still a country where the people choose their leaders, or a country where politicians choose their voters. Republicans are willing to sell out their integrity to keep a weak man happy. That’s the choice they’ve made. And history will remember them for siding with tyranny.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleavers-statement-condemning-special-session-begin-mid Congressman Cleaver’s Statement Condemning Special Session to Begin Mid-Decade Redistricting Without a New Census 2025-08-29 2025 2025-08 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after Governor Mike Kehoe announced a special session to redraw Missouri’s congressional map mid-decade, an unprecedented step taken at the direction of the president. “I have had the privilege and distinct honor of serving the people of Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District. I have always understood one truth: this seat does not belong to me. It belongs to the people. And today, that truth is under assault. “President Trump’s unprecedented directive to redraw our maps in the middle of the decade and without an updated census is not an act of democracy – it is an unconstitutional attack against it. This attempt to gerrymander Missouri will not simply change district lines, it will silence voices. It will deny representation. It will tell the people of Missouri that their lawmakers no longer wish to earn their vote, that elections are predetermined by the power brokers in Washington, and that politicians – not the people – will decide the outcome. “Roughly 40% of Missourians cast their ballots for Democratic candidates last year, and they deserve representation in the People’s House just as much as our Republican neighbors. Yet, in attempting to dismantle the Fifth District, state lawmakers would be working to drown out Missouri voices in favor of a single man a thousand miles away. It is my sincere hope that they will not give in to this short-sighted and irresponsible demand. “But let us be clear: Should this effort move forward, we will not concede. “I will not surrender the voices of the people who entrusted me to fight for them. The people of the Fifth District and I will fight relentlessly to ensure Missouri never becomes an antidemocratic state, where politicians choose their voters instead of voters choosing their representatives. In the courts and at the ballot box, we will demand that the rule of law is upheld, our voices are heard, and democracy prevails. “Our nation has endured wars, depre… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-joins-lawmakers-demanding-trump-administration-release-300 Rep. Cleaver Joins Lawmakers in Demanding Trump Administration Release $300 Million in CDC Grant Funding 2025-08-20 2025 2025-08 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) - U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) has joined a number of House Democrats in demanding the Trump administration release nearly $300 million in congressionally obligated funds for core public health programs. In a letter to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Susan Monarez, Rep. Cleaver, Congressman Timothy Kennedy (D-NY), and other House Democrats underline the impact this action has on state and local health departments and public health organizations in communities across the country. “As you know, the CDC is responsible for executing the federal government’s response for disease prevention and improved public health outcomes through scientific research,” the lawmakers wrote. “Through annual discretionary and mandatory appropriations, CDC funding critical research and development initiatives for disease surveillance, cancer prevention, health education, and public emergency readiness, among others. Many of these funding streams go directly to state, local, territorial, and tribal governments as well as external stakeholders with CDC’s shared goals.” “These federal funds have been congressionally obligated and are depended upon by the local health departments that execute lifesaving initiatives,” the lawmakers continued. “Funding delays directly harm our constituents who depend on these services, particularly in rural and underserved communities.” “As Members of Congress, we have constituents and local organizations impacted by these irresponsible funding freezes and have received urgent outreach expressing deep concern about the impact of this administration’s actions. Without reliable, regular, and renewed public health investments from the federal government, this administration risks undoing decades of advancements in disease prevention. We demand that OMB immediately release obligated CDC funds and continue much-needed investments in our communities,” the lawmakers concluded. The offic… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-nunn-introduce-bipartisan-bill-modernize-usda-programs-and Reps. Cleaver, Nunn Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Modernize USDA Programs and Preserve Affordable Housing in Rural Communities 2025-08-14 2025 2025-08 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05) and Zach Nunn (IA-03) introduced the bipartisan Rural Housing Service Reform Act to preserve affordable housing, improve program oversight, and expand access to safe homes for families, seniors, and workers in rural communities across the country. “Every American deserves a safe, stable and affordable place to call home, regardless of their ZIP code,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Tragically, as communities struggle to build more housing and rural housing programs are unable to keep up with demand, residents in rural Missouri and beyond are struggling to stay afloat. Congress must take action to lower costs by cutting through unnecessary red tape and modernizing existing housing programs to maximize efficiency and draw more private investment—which is precisely what the bipartisan Rural Housing Service Reform Act will do. I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Congressman Nunn as we seek to make housing more affordable for hardworking families.” “More and more Iowans are watching the dream of homeownership slip out of reach,” said Rep. Nunn. “Too many programs meant to help are outdated, buried in red tape, and no longer work for the families they were created to serve. This bipartisan bill cuts through that bureaucracy to protect affordable housing, speed up repairs, and modernize USDA’s tools—so rural families, seniors, and workers can build their future right here in Iowa." More than 40 percent of Missourians spend over a third of their income on rent, while rural communities face worsening shortages as aging USDA-financed properties leave the program when mortgages mature. Outdated USDA systems, slow processing times, and limited oversight have only compounded these challenges—leaving families with fewer options and raising the risk of displacement. “As our nation continues to grapple with a housing shortage and affordability crisis, BPC Action commends Reps. Zach Nunn (R-IA) and Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) for their bipartisan lead… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-joins-university-health-local-health-centers-and Congressman Cleaver Joins University Health, Local Health Centers, and Rural Partners for Roundtable on Medicaid 2025-08-12 2025 2025-08 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (MO-05) joined leaders from University Health, local Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), and rural healthcare partners for a roundtable discussion on the impact of Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill, specifically, the impact of the largest cut to Medicaid in history on the region’s healthcare providers and the patient populations they serve. “If you aren’t deeply concerned about the GOP’s Big Ugly Law and the drastic cuts it makes to Medicaid, you should be,” said Congressman Cleaver. “These cuts threaten essential funding that our local hospitals, health centers, and rural health providers rely on to serve our most vulnerable neighbors, ensuring Missouri families will see less access to care and higher costs in the years ahead. Slashing Medicaid not only jeopardizes access to vital services for countless patients in Missouri’s Fifth District and throughout the state – it undermines the stability of the entire healthcare system. I will always stand up to protect these critical services that families depend on and reject policies that put politics ahead of people’s health and wellbeing.” University Health President and CEO Charlie Shields said, “We sincerely appreciate the Congressman’s interest in Medicaid and how changes could impact people in our area. At University Health, approximately half of our patients are currently on Medicaid. It is our commitment to provide the very best guidance through any changes that might occur, making sure our patients know we’re right here with them ready to simplify the process and provide quality care every step of the way.” According to independent estimates, Republicans’ Big Ugly Law will kick 17 million Americans off their health insurance and make premiums, deductibles, and copays soar for millions more. The bill cuts more than $1 trillion from healthcare, including the largest cut to Medicaid in history and could cause a $500 billion cut to Medicare. According to one analysis, more than 50,000 people wi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-williams-introduce-legislation-protect-voting-rights Reps. Cleaver, Williams Introduce Legislation to Protect Voting Rights of Unhoused Americans 2025-08-07 2025 2025-08 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) This week, marking the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Voting Rights Act and as part of a legislative package to protect the voting rights of all Americans, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, and Nikema Williams (D-GA), along with Reps. Terri Sewell (D-AL), Julie Johnson (D-TX), Marc Veasey (D-TX), Robert “Bobby” Scott (D-VA), Delia Ramirez (D-IL), and Kevin Mullin (D-CA), introduced legislation to protect the voting rights of unhoused individuals. The Unhoused Voter Opportunity Through Elections (VOTE) Act provides legal protections and minimum standards for accessibility to voting for unhoused Americans, in addition to providing resources for efforts to expand access to the ballot for unhoused people. “In the United States of America, every citizen has a right to make their voice heard in our democracy—and there must be no exceptions for those who are temporarily unhoused,” said Congressman Cleaver. “As the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, I’m proud to join with Congresswoman Williams in introducing the Unhoused VOTE Act to ensure that every American, including those who are struggling with housing instability, are able to cast a vote in our elections.” “As we mark the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, we are unfortunately facing the same struggle for voting rights. The tactics of voter suppression may look different, but the intent remains the same,” said Congresswoman Williams. “Congressman John Lewis taught us that every generation has an obligation to move our country one step forward. My legislative package takes a major step to ensuring everyone can practice their fundamental right to vote. In the face of Jim Crow 2.0 and intentionally racist gerrymandering, we urgently need comprehensive national standards to protect voting rights for everyone—no matter your ZIP Code, no matter your bank account.” Specifically, the Unhoused VOTE Act would protect … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-celebrates-groundbreaking-largest-infrastructure Congressman Cleaver Celebrates Groundbreaking of Largest Infrastructure Project in Grandview’s History 2025-08-04 2025 2025-08 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) joined city leaders and community members to break ground on the largest infrastructure investment in Grandview’s history: a $24 million revitalization of nearly five miles of Blue Ridge Boulevard. The project is set to improve safety, accessibility, and economic opportunity along one of the city’s most vital corridors. Congressman Cleaver helped secure $4.6 million in federal Community Project Funding to support the multi-phase initiative, which includes roadway resurfacing, new sidewalks, lane expansion, ADA-compliant intersections, a multi-use path, and beautification enhancements designed to attract new investment and strengthen local businesses. “This is more than a groundbreaking – it’s a gamechanger,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Revitalizing Blue Ridge Boulevard means safer roads, stronger local businesses, and a brighter future for Grandview and south Kansas City. I was proud to secure $4.6 million in federal funding to help make this vision a reality, and I look forward to seeing the transformation take shape for the families and businesses who call this corridor home.” “This project has been a long time coming,” said Grandview Mayor Leonard Jones. “Securing these funds ensures the City is doing what we do best, and that’s leveraging taxpayer dollars so they get more for their money. Congressman Cleaver continues to work for the people of Grandview and the region who use the Blue Ridge Corridor.” The Blue Ridge Boulevard revitalization project connects two ends of Kansas City and is the main commercial corridor for the City of Grandview. The $4.6 million in Community Project Funding was one of fifteen projects Congressman Cleaver championed in Congress in 2022, securing nearly $39,250,000 in federal funding for Fiscal Year 2023 that directly benefits constituents in Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District. Photos from today’s event can be found here. Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-returns-urban-neighborhood-initiatives-community Congressman Cleaver Returns to Urban Neighborhood Initiative’s Community Project Funding Site to Celebrate Progress on Transformative Housing Project 2025-07-28 2025 2025-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Yesterday, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) returned to the site of the Urban Neighborhood Initiative’s (UNI) major redevelopment project in the heart of Kansas City, marking a powerful moment of progress since helping secure $4 million in Community Project Funding for the project. The visit is the Congressman’s first since the ceremonial groundbreaking last fall and comes as UNI moves forward with the development of 100 new single-family homes – part of a broader strategy to strengthen neighborhoods, create generational opportunity, and reverse decades of divestment. “Today is a reminder that real progress takes vision, partnership, and persistence,” said Congressman Cleaver. “When UNI broke ground last fall, they laid more than concrete – they laid the foundation for hope, stability, and opportunity. Now, as these homes begin to rise, so does the promise of a stronger, more connected community where deserving families can plant roots and build a future with dignity. This moment affirms what can be accomplished when we invest in housing as a foundation for opportunity, equity, and long-term community well-being.” “This initiative reflects UNI’s deep commitment to restoring neighborhoods through intentional investment and opportunity,” said Dr. Jamee Rodgers, President and CEO of the Urban Neighborhood Initiative. “The return of Congressman Cleaver underscores the power of collaborative leadership. These new homes are more than structures; they are symbols of stability, hope, and long overdue progress for families in our urban core. We are honored to lead this work on behalf of the community we serve.” UNI’s pilot program, in partnership with Driven Development, will provide 100 affordable homes to families in underserved communities under a financing structure that promotes resident wealth accumulation through ultimate homeownership. The $4 million in Community Project Funding was one of fifteen projects Congressman Cleaver championed in Congress in 2022, securing nearly $39,250,… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-introduces-st-louis-reca-readjustment-act-expand-radiation-compensation Bell Introduces St. Louis RECA Readjustment Act to Expand Radiation Compensation to Overlooked Communities 2025-07-24 2025 2025-07 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) introduced the St. Louis RECA Readjustment Act, legislation that expands the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) to include two additional St. Louis ZIP codes—63106 and 63107—long impacted by the lasting consequences of radioactive contamination from the Manhattan Project. “While I was glad to see recent RECA legislation passed into law, people in ZIP codes 63106 and 63107 also deserve equal recognition and justice,” said Rep. Bell. “These families have endured decades of health crises, economic struggles, and profound neglect stemming from radioactive contamination. This bill ensures that their voices won't be ignored any longer and that they, too, receive the relief and acknowledgment they rightfully deserve.” Currently, compensation is only offered to limited zip codes in the St. Louis region, but Rep. Bell’s new bill extends relief to residents of ZIP codes 63106 and 63107—areas deeply impacted yet persistently overlooked by federal assistance programs. The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act was established to provide restitution to those harmed by radiation exposure from U.S. nuclear programs, including the historic Manhattan Project. Bell’s bill ensures no ZIP codes are left behind, especially those that have been traditionally underserved by the Federal government. Read the full bill text here. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-kamlager-dove-and-senator-schiff-request-update-epa Reps. Cleaver, Kamlager-Dove, and Senator Schiff Request Update on EPA Actions to Mitigate Climate Risks at Toxic Superfund Sites Nationwide 2025-07-23 2025 2025-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) and Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA), along with Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA), led a congressional inquiry calling for an updated report on actions the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can take to mitigate climate risks at Superfund sites across the country. In a letter to Comptroller General Gene Dodaro at the Government Accountability Office (GAO), the lawmakers are also requesting information on the impact of recent federal funding and workforce cuts at the agency. “Given the multitude of policy and administrative changes at the EPA since the beginning of the year, we would like GAO to reexamine the current and future impacts of climate change on Superfund sites,” the lawmakers continued. “We encourage GAO to include any recommendations to continue addressing the growing risks at Superfund sites.” “We also request that the report consider the impacts of recent funding and federal workforce cuts to the EPA. Although it is currently unclear how many employees have been placed on administrative leave, fired, reassigned, or have taken the Trump Administration’s deferred resignation program, there is no doubt that this reduction in force will impact EPA headquarters and regional offices’ ability to properly monitor and support Superfund sites,” the lawmakers concluded. In 2019, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report concluding Superfund sites throughout the United States are severely underprepared to weather the exacerbating threat of climate change, risking calamity for surrounding communities that would be impacted by a potential breach. In the report, the GAO found that hundreds of Superfund sites across the nation face risks from flooding, storm surge, rise in sea level, and wildfires. For instance, in 2017, Hurricane Harvey caused flooding at 13 Superfund sites as well as breaches at two others. In 2018, a California wildfire burned through the Iron Mountain Mine site, causing pipes to catch fire with the potential t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-wesley-bells-job-fair Congressman Wesley Bell's Job Fair 2025-07-21 2025 2025-07 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper I’m inviting you to join me at my Job Fair on Thursday, July 31st! It’ll be from 10:00am to 2:00pm at the Millennium Student Center at the University of Missouri–St. Louis. I’m hosting this event to connect folks with real job opportunities. Come dressed to impress and bring a few copies of your resume—some employers may be hiring on the spot. Please click here to learn more and RSVP now – space may be limited. Image 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-introduces-legislation-require-epa-publish Congressman Cleaver Introduces Legislation to Require EPA to Publish Independent Study When Proposing Updated Water Fluoridation Guidance 2025-07-21 2025 2025-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) introduced the Protect Our Treatment for Enamel, Erosion, and Tooth Health (TEETH) Act. The legislation would require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to consult and publish a rapid response evidence review by independent and nonpartisan experts at the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) when proposing new water fluoridation guidance, safeguarding public health from politicization. “When making policy decisions that impact the health and safety of Americans across the country, not to mention the expenses that come with a potential rise in additional dental care, it is essential that the federal government utilize nonpartisan, independent experts who are following the most rigorous scientific protocols to obtain their information,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Unfortunately, as we’ve seen with the undermining of life-saving vaccines under the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), we’re witnessing the politicization of public health, and we cannot allow this infection to spread in the same way that cavities can. That’s why I’m proud to introduce the Protect Our TEETH Act to ensure the EPA is using the best evidence available when updating public health guidance regarding fluoridation. “As the nation’s leading voice for oral health, the American Dental Association commends Rep. Cleaver for introducing the ‘Protect Our Treatment for Enamel, Erosion, and Tooth Health’ (or TEETH Act). This critical legislation will help ensure policy decisions around fluoride are driven by clear evidence, scientific rigor, and generally accepted data,” said Dr. Brett Kessler, D.D.S., President of the American Dental Association. “By leveraging the expertise of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, considered the gold standard for reviewing complex scientific issues, it will reinforce the integrity of our public health criteria and ensure that fluoride recommendations remain rooted in the bes… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-rep-bell-passing-honorable-william-bill-lacy-clay-sr STATEMENT: Rep. Bell on the Passing of the Honorable William “Bill” Lacy Clay Sr. 2025-07-17 2025 2025-07 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) released the following statement on the passing of the Honorable William “Bill” Lacy Clay Sr. “William Lacy Clay Sr. was a giant—not just for St. Louis, not just for Missouri, but for our entire country. His passing, only a few months after his wife Carol Ann Johnson Clay, is a profound loss for all of us who loved them, learned from them, and were lifted by their example. For over three decades, he carried the voices of working people, Black families, union members, and the unheard into the halls of power, and he made sure they echoed there. Before he ever held office, he was already in the fight for civil rights. And once he got there, he never let up. Bill Clay knew this work isn’t about ego or headlines—it’s about staying rooted in principle, even when it's hard. He said, “We have no permanent friends, no permanent enemies, just permanent interests,” and he meant it. That’s how he served. Mr. Clay believed politics was about purpose. That belief shaped the Congressional Black Caucus, of which he was a founding member. It shaped the fight to protect workers, expand access to education, and help fix a democracy that too often forgets the people at the bottom. And it shaped generations of public servants, including his son, my friend and predecessor, Lacy Clay Jr., who carries forward his great legacy every day. I counted Mr. Clay as a grand mentor, as a trailblazer, and as a dear friend. But more than that, I carry his example with me every time I walk onto the House Floor. His courage. His fire. His commitment to justice. We have lost one of the fiercest champions our city and country have ever known. He once said, “I didn’t come here to stay forever.” Maybe that was the only thing he ever got wrong. Because his legacy will be felt in these halls for as long as they stand. My heart is with his family, with Lacy, and with every person whose life was better because Bill Clay chose to serve." ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-joins-lawmakers-demanding-trump-administration-release-7 Rep. Cleaver Joins Lawmakers in Demanding Trump Administration Release $7 Billion in Education Funding 2025-07-14 2025 2025-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) has joined 150 House Democrats in demanding the Trump administration release nearly $7 billion in congressionally-mandated federal funding dedicated to education-related programs nationwide, including after school programs, teacher training, and adult education. In a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought, Rep. Cleaver, House Committee on Education and Workforce Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-VA), and 149 other House Democrats underline the impact this action is having on local schools, students, and teachers in communities across the country. “We write to request more information about your decision to illegally withhold nearly $7 billion dollars of funding for K-12 schools and adult education from states and local school districts around the country and to insist that this funding be immediately released,” the lawmakers wrote. “Without these funds, schools are facing difficult and unnecessary decisions on programs for students and teachers.” “This unnecessary delay of education funding, which accounts for at least 10 percent of federal K-12 funding in every state, is alarming parents, local elected officials, and education agencies,” the lawmakers continued. “It is disrupting school and district planning, jeopardizing the education of millions of students, and is already resulting in layoffs as well as program delays and cancellations.” “There is no legitimate reason why any review of these programs should prevent the Administration from fulfilling its responsibility to the American people on time. No more excuses – follow the law and release the funding meant for our schools, teachers, and families,” the lawmakers concluded. The illegally withheld funding represents at least 10% of federal K-12 funding in every state. Missouri’s schools are unable to access nearly $84 million in federal funding because of the Trump Administration’s actions, including $1.3 millio… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/following-bipartisan-push-reps-cleaver-davids-congress-passes-625 Following Bipartisan Push from Reps. Cleaver & Davids, Congress Passes $625 Million for World Cup Security 2025-07-11 2025 2025-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Following a months-long bipartisan push to secure federal funding to strengthen security services at host cities during the 2026 World Cup, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (MO-05) and Sharice Davids (KS-03) announced today that Congress has passed $625 million to support safety and security efforts during the event. “The 2026 World Cup is an opportunity to showcase Kansas City on the world stage, demonstrating our status as a welcoming, beautiful, and first-rate city to hundreds of thousands of people from around the globe. However, with this temporary swell in population, it is imperative that we also increase security services for the safety of visitors and residents alike, which is no small task for an event this large,” said Congressman Cleaver. “After joining with representatives from across the country to push for federal investments that will ensure a safe and orderly event, I’m very happy that we were able to secure $625 million to support security efforts in the 11 host cities, including Kansas City.” “Hosting the World Cup is an incredible opportunity for Kansas City — not just to welcome the world, but to show the world who we are. With hundreds of thousands of visitors expected, ensuring public safety must be a top priority. I’ve been proud to work with Congressman Cleaver and a bipartisan group of colleagues to advocate for these much-needed resources, and I’ll keep working to make sure Kansas City is ready to shine on the global stage,” said Representative Sharice Davids. Kansas City will host six matches, as well as a minimum of eight teams, during the FIFA 2026 World Cup. According to estimates, Kansas City is expected to welcome 650,000 visitors during the month-long event. Over the past year, Representatives Cleaver and Davids, Co-Chair of the Congressional FIFA World Cup 2026 Caucus, have worked across party lines to build support for federal investments in World Cup host cities. Last September, the lawmakers called on the Biden administration to establish a Wh… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-announces-35-million-bipartisan-infrastructure-law Congressman Cleaver Announces $3.5 Million Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Grant Awarded to Kansas City 2025-07-09 2025 2025-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced the City of Kansas City has been awarded a $3.5 million federal grant from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to clean up brownfield sites within the city. The federal funding, which Cleaver helped secure through his support for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, will invest in Kansas City’s Brownfields Supplemental Revolving Loan Fund, which provides loans and subgrants to remediate and redevelop projects at brownfield sites throughout Kansas City. “From investments in new roads and bridges to funding that enables the cleanup and redevelopment of brownfield sites like the Hardesty Federal Complex, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to fuel a remarkable economic comeback in Kansas City,” said Congressman Cleaver. “While we’ve come a long way since the dark days of the global pandemic, thanks in part to investments like this, there is still so much work that can be done to boost economic development in underserved communities across the metro area – and this funding will help support those efforts. I’m proud to have helped secure this $3.5 million for Kansas City, and I’ll continue fighting every day to bring more investments that support Missouri workers and small businesses back to the Fifth Congressional District.” Specifically, this funding will assist in re-capitalizing Kansas City’s Revolving Loan Fund from which the City can make loans and subgrants to clean up brownfield sites, ensuring more projects can be funded. Thanks to the historic $1.5 billion boost from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA’s Brownfields program is helping more communities than ever before begin to address the economic, social, and environmental challenges caused by brownfields and stimulate economic opportunity and environmental revitalization in historically overburdened communities. Since passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Kansas City has received more than $18.5 million in brownfields grant… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-bell-votes-no-disastrous-reconciliation-bill STATEMENT: Bell Votes NO on Disastrous Reconciliation Bill 2025-07-03 2025 2025-07 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) released the following statement after voting NO on the Republicans' “Big Beautiful Bill”. “What happened on the House floor today will go down as one of the darkest votes in modern American history. This bill wasn’t about cutting waste, balancing budgets, or fiscal responsibility. It was about taking from the poor to give even more to the rich. This is the result of a political movement that has spent decades pushing one message: gut programs like Medicaid and Medicare, slash food assistance, and strip basic dignity from working people, just to hand billionaires and big corporations another tax break. In Missouri alone, over 260,000 people will lose their health care. Nationwide, 17 million Americans will be cut off. Children will fall through the cracks. Seniors will lose the care they rely on. Families already stretched to the limit will be left to fend for themselves. And what do we get in return? A bill that adds trillions to the national debt, hands more power to the already powerful, and tells struggling families to keep waiting their turn. The truth is, most people still don’t realize how devastating this will be. But they will. And by then, the damage will already be done. So shame on every Republican who voted for this bill. You have failed your constituents and you have failed the American people. I didn’t run for Congress to help the powerful get more power. I came here to fight for the people I grew up with. For working folks. For St. Louis families who are always asked to sacrifice while the rich keep taking. I will keep fighting, because they matter. And this country ought to act like it.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleavers-statement-vote-against-republicans-big-ugly-bill Congressman Cleaver’s Statement on Vote Against Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill 2025-07-03 2025 2025-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted against Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill, which betrays working families by making the largest cuts to Medicaid and SNAP in history to fund more tax breaks that overwhelmingly benefit the wealthiest Americans, while adding trillions to the national debt. “Despite Democratic warnings about electing a billionaire with a long history of failed businesses and a reputation for stiffing workers, the American people re-elected Donald Trump under the guise that he would protect programs like Medicaid and fight for hardworking families and forgotten communities. With the passage of President Trump and Congressional Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill, those lofty promises will go unfulfilled and American families will experience the largest transfer of wealth from the working-class to the exorbitantly wealthy in American history—a travesty that could take decades to undo. “According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, nonpartisaneconomists, and even a handful of courageous Republicans willing to speak the truth, the Big Ugly Bill makes the largest cuts to Medicaid and SNAP in the history of these vital programs. It will rip healthcare away from 17 million Americans, including 265,000 in Missouri, take food assistance away from five million families, and eliminate access to school meals for 18 million children. “For those who do not lose access to these programs, it will send energy prices and healthcare costs soaring, as it makes massive cuts to critical investments in clean energy and the Affordable Care Act. For our kids and grandkids, it will saddle them with at least another three trillion dollars in additional debt. And it enacts all of these painful and pitiful policies to provide more tax breaks to the wealthiest families in our communities, ensuring the widening chasm in income inequality accelerates to a dangerous degree. “At a time when American families are struggling with the cost of living, it is morally reprehensible and suprem… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-wagner-turner-auchincloss-introduce-legislation-advance-stability-bosnia Bell, Wagner, Turner, Auchincloss Introduce Legislation to Advance Stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina 2025-06-26 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.), along with U.S. Representatives Ann Wagner (R-Mo.), Mike Turner (R-Ohio), and Jake Auchincloss (D-Mass.), released the following statement after they introduced the Upholding the Dayton Peace Agreement Through Sanctions Act. This year marks the 30th Anniversary of the Srebrenica Genocide. “Peace doesn’t keep itself. When bad actors try to undermine democracy and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the U.S. has to act,” said Rep. Bell. “This bill is about holding those individuals accountable and standing firm behind the Dayton Peace Agreement. We can’t afford to look the other way while corruption and division threaten hard-won peace.” “The largest Bosnian community outside of Bosnia is centered here in the St. Louis area, and for years I have worked closely with them to advance our shared goal of a unified and peaceful Bosnia and Herzegovina. We condemn Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik’s flagrant disregard for the law, and it is critical we put a stop to his destabilizing actions in the region that have gotten worse by the week,” said Rep. Wagner. “My Upholding the Dayton Peace Agreement Through Sanctions Act will sanction criminals like Dodik and others like him who seek to tear apart the institutions that safeguard Bosnia’s fragile peace. The new Axis of Evil that is China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea is cheering on bad actors like Dodik, and it is critical to global stability we stop this evil in its tracks to send a message that the world will not stand for corrupt secessionists like him gaining another foothold.” “The Dayton Peace Accords ended one of the bloodiest conflicts in Europe’s history and laid the foundation for lasting peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina. As we commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Dayton Peace Accords, we are reminded of our constant commitment to the fragile security situation established and our duty to make it a lasting and stable peace,” said Rep. Turner. “The United States will continue to stand with the… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T01:08:28Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-co-sponsors-war-powers-resolutions-prohibit-us Congressman Cleaver Co-Sponsors War Powers Resolutions to Prohibit U.S. Involvement in Iran 2025-06-25 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) co-sponsored two War Powers Resolutions to prohibit American involvement in Iran, following President Trump’s unilateral, unconstitutional, and dangerous decision to use U.S. Armed Forces to strike Iran directly. The first resolution, introduced by Reps. Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Ro Khanna (D-CA), would prohibit the U.S. Armed Forces from unauthorized hostilities in the Islamic Republic of Iran. The second resolution, introduced by the Democratic Ranking Members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, House Armed Services Committee, and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, would order the removal of U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities against Iran absent a Congressional authorization, while preserving the ability for U.S. Armed Forces to defend the U.S. and its partners and allies from imminent attack. “For far too long and on a bipartisan basis, the Congress has ceded its Article I power to declare war, eliminating an essential check on the Executive Branch and giving one individual far too much power to drag the nation into protracted military conflicts,” said Congressman Cleaver. “While we all agree that Iran can never be allowed to procure a nuclear weapon, it is also critical that Congress leave no doubt that the president is not allowed to unilaterally begin a war with Iran, or any other country, without the approval of the People’s representatives. Both of these resolutions make clear that the president does not have this authority and ensure that the U.S. will not enter yet another costly conflict in the Middle East unless granted explicit approval from Congress.” Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommitt… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T01:08:28Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-statement-us-strikes-iranian-nuclear-facilities Bell, Statement on U.S. Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Facilities 2025-06-22 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) released the following statement: "I’m grateful that no American service members were harmed in this strike, and proud of the skill and bravery of the Missouri-based airmen and airwomen who carried out their mission. Our troops always deserve our respect, no matter who is president. I never for a second doubted our military’s ability to strike its targets. But taking out facilities is the easy part. It’s what comes next that’s hard—and we’ve seen how this story goes. Launching airstrikes without consulting Congress, without a clear strategy, and without providing transparency to the American people is not an acceptable path forward. I am also extremely worried that the massive risk of escalation will further put our service members at risk. If we desire peace in the region, we can never allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon. It would be incredibly naive to believe that if Iran obtained a nuclear weapon that they would not use it. But the Administration has an obligation to brief Congress and outline their objectives for the timing of this action. We cannot be dragged into another war in the Middle East by those who have learned nothing from the last two decades. I’ve talked with many people across St. Louis—families, veterans, workers—and they deserve answers. And our troops, especially those from right here in Missouri, deserve better than being sent into harm’s way without a clear mission or long-term plan." ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T01:08:28Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleavers-statement-president-trumps-unconstitutional Congressman Cleaver’s Statement on President Trump’s Unconstitutional Bombing of Three Sites in Iran 2025-06-22 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement on the bombing of three sites in Iran. “President Trump’s bombing of 3 sites in Iran was unconstitutional; only Congress can declare war. “I remain hopeful that Iran’s nuclear capabilities have been seriously weakened or destroyed. However, I’m concerned that Trump’s actions threaten to trap the U.S. in an escalating conflict. “Recently both Democratic and Republican presidencies have felt comfortable in overstepping their article 2 constitutional authorities. This is a power grab. “Any further military action must first be voted on by Congress.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T01:08:28Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-harshbarger-introduce-bipartisan-bill-expand-paramedicine Reps. Cleaver, Harshbarger Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Paramedicine Services Nationwide 2025-06-17 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) have introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen and expand paramedicine services in rural communities across the country. The Community Paramedicine Act of 2025 (CPA) would expand the scope of rural health grants to include mobile integrated health and community paramedicine grantees, enabling Americans in rural communities to receive centralized, mobile, and preventative care through local paramedics, an increasingly popular initiative in healthcare known as Community Paramedicine. “Across Missouri, rural communities are struggling to access quality healthcare that is both affordable and convenient, with far too many Missourians having to travel long distances to get the care they need, which can often be as costly as it is frustrating for families,” said Congressman Cleaver. “This challenge requires innovative solutions that help bring physicians directly to the people—and that’s precisely what community paramedicine seeks to do. I’m proud to introduce the Community Paramedicine Act with Congresswoman Harshbarger to expand this popular and growing practice to more communities, so Missouri families can get the care they deserve at lower costs and right at their door.” “Mobile Integrated Healthcare-Community Paramedicine is a smart, innovative solution that delivers the right care at the right time — especially for patients with chronic conditions or in rural and underserved areas,” said Rep. Harshbarger. “As co-chair of the Congressional Bipartisan Rural Health Caucus, I’m proud to help introduce this budget-neutral bill, which will empower our emergency medical services professionals and firefighters to build these community programs for reducing unnecessary emergency room visits, improving health outcomes, and potentially saving billions in healthcare costs.” “Early medical intervention can save the health care system billions by addressing time-critical issues and preventing costly emergency care and hosp… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T01:08:28Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-graves-introduce-bipartisan-tutor-act-block-foreign-adversaries-pentagon Bell, Graves Introduce Bipartisan TUTOR Act to Block Foreign Adversaries from Pentagon Tutoring Contracts 2025-06-16 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and Sam Graves (R-Mo.) introduced the TUTOR Act, bipartisan legislation to prohibit the Department of Defense from contracting with online tutoring companies owned or controlled by foreign adversaries. The Turning Untrusted Tutoring Origins Away from Resources Act of 2025, or TUTOR Act, would amend current law to prohibit the Department of Defense from contracting with any tutoring service owned or controlled by a "country of concern" — including China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. "Military families deserve high-quality educational support without the risk of foreign surveillance or political interference," said Congressman Bell. "There’s no reason the Pentagon should be writing checks to companies controlled by hostile regimes. This bill is about protecting our national security and our students at the same time." “Our service members dedicate their lives to protecting us from foreign threats, so why would we educate their children using tutoring services owned by Iran, North Korea, Russia, or China?” said Congressman Graves. “It makes absolutely no sense and we need to put a stop to it. I’m proud to join with Congressman Bell to introduce the Tutor Act, which ensures these foreign threats have no role in educating the children of our servicemembers.” The bill comes in response to growing concerns that hostile foreign governments are using access to American students and military families for surveillance, propaganda, or influence operations. The legislation would apply to both current and future DoD contracts with foreign-owned companies providing online tutoring services. Read the full bill here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T01:08:28Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-davids-demand-answers-lack-funding-freedoms-frontier Reps. Cleaver, Davids Demand Answers on Lack of Funding for Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area 2025-06-16 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Sharice Davids (D-KS) have called on the Trump Administration to immediately release long-overdue funding for National Heritage Areas (NHAs), which preserve local history, create jobs, and drive tourism across the country. Despite being signed into law in March, federal funding for NHAs — including the Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area (FFNHA) in western Missouri and eastern Kansas — still hasn’t been delivered. As a result, local sites are struggling to keep staff employed, preserve historic landmarks, and continue educational programs that serve thousands of visitors and students each year. “NHAs contribute billions to the U.S. economy annually and support hundreds of thousands of jobs, leveraging each dollar of federal funding into more than $5 of nonfederal resources,” the lawmakers wrote. “For example, FFNHA provided 61 percent of its FY24 income from nonfederal sources. Our nation’s 62 NHAs provide an excellent and sustainable model of economic development at little cost to the federal government. This delay in funding is causing significant strain on our NHAs – many of which rely on small staffs and robust volunteer networks; annual NPS appropriations are critical to attracting private donations, planning grants and historic preservation efforts, and executing educational opportunities.” “We respectfully request that you quickly provide us with a timeline as to when FY25 appropriations for NHAs will be processed and work to execute these funding awards as soon as possible,” the lawmakers concluded. NHAs are public-private partnerships that highlight culturally significant regions across the U.S., from Civil War battlefields to Indigenous heritage sites. Each federal dollar invested generates over $5 in private and local support. Without this timely funding, programs grind to a halt and community-driven preservation work suffers. Established in 2006, the FFNHA is one of 55 National Heritage Areas throughout the United Stat… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T01:08:28Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-bell-statement-israeli-strikes-iran Rep. Bell Statement on Israeli Strikes on Iran 2025-06-13 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) released the following statement: “Iran having a nuclear weapon would be catastrophic for the United States, Israel, and our regional allies. It would also very likely result in a larger conflict. The Iranian regime is a leading state sponsor of terrorism, has attacked U.S. service members in the past, and has been quite clear about its intentions toward the U.S. and Israel. If Iran were to possess nuclear weapons, it would be naive to believe they would not use them. Israel is well within its rights to take those threats seriously. But war carries an enormous cost in lives lost, families shattered, and consequences we can’t always predict or control. Diplomacy isn’t weakness; it’s the hard work of trying to prevent catastrophe. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I am very concerned about protecting our service members stationed in the region and will do everything in my power to support their safety.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T01:08:28Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleavers-statement-escalating-conflict-middle-east Congressman Cleaver’s Statement on the Escalating Conflict in the Middle East 2025-06-13 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement on the escalating conflict in the Middle East. “I am closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East following Israel’s decision to strike Iran’s military leadership and nuclear capabilities. “My highest priority remains the safety of American citizens and servicemembers in the region. While the president’s decision in his first term to withdraw from the JCPOA has led to this extraordinarily alarming moment and made diplomacy substantially more difficult, it is imperative that the Trump administration focus on de-escalation before U.S. armed forces are dragged into another lengthy and lethal quagmire. “I continue to support Israel's right to exist and their right to defend themselves. I urge the leadership of both nations to de-escalate and come to the negotiating table to end this conflict before it spirals out of control.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T01:08:28Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-votes-against-republican-rescission-package-cuts Congressman Cleaver Votes Against Republican Rescission Package that Cuts Foreign Aid and Public Broadcasting 2025-06-12 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted against the House GOP recissions package that would recklessly cut $9.4 billion from the federal budget that was previously approved on a bipartisan basis. In addition to foreign aid cuts, which are already having deadly consequences and undermining U.S. support around the world, the bill defunds America’s public broadcasting, including NPR and PBS, threatening vital sources of nonpartisan news, educational programming, and emergency services for all Americans. “Whether it’s ripping healthcare away from 16 million Americans, taking food off the table of millions more, or now defunding vital public broadcasters that millions of our fellow Americans rely on like PBS and NPR, my House Republican colleagues have made clear that nothing is off the table when it comes to budget cuts that will help pay for more tax breaks that overwhelmingly benefit the wealthiest among us,” said Congressman Cleaver. “While I was hopeful that just a handful of my colleagues across the aisle would block this short-sighted and dangerous decision, it will fall upon the Senate to protect these services for the American people.” Earlie this week, Congressman Cleaver fought to protect funding for America’s public broadcasting by introducing an amendment to remove a provision within the Republican rescission package that would eliminate federal funding for these vital institutions. Unfortunately, the amendment was not adopted, and the cuts remained in the package passed today. Congressman Cleaver has been a longtime supporter of America’s public broadcasting, pushing back on the Trump administration’s effort to undermine these vital services. In March, Cleaver joined a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers to call for continued funding for public broadcasting following reports the FCC had opened a frivolous investigation into NPR and PBS and signaled interest in defunding the outlets. In May, the Congressman again joined a cohort of lawmakers to call on the Committ… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T01:08:28Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-lynch-meeks-torres-introduce-choice-neighborhoods Reps. Cleaver, Lynch, Meeks, Torres Introduce Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act 2025-06-12 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, Co-Chairs of the Congressional Public Housing Caucus Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, Stephen Lynch (D-MA), Gregory Meeks (D-NY), and Ritchie Torres (D-NY) reintroduced the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act. The legislation would permanently authorize and expand the Choice Neighborhoods Program. Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate. The Choice Neighborhoods Program is a transformative grant program within the Department of Housing and Urban Development that converts severely distressed neighborhoods into high-quality, mixed-use community developments. Established in 2010, the program has provided $1.8 billion in competitive grants to localities and community organizations for comprehensive neighborhood redevelopment across dozens of distressed communities. In a recent HUD report, researchers found that in the neighborhoods studied, every dollar of Choice funding leveraged an additional $7.34 toward housing redevelopment. “As American families struggle with our national housing affordability crisis, we need an all-hands-on deck approach to promote the development of affordable housing and rejuvenation of public housing all over the country,” said Congressman Cleaver. “The Choice Neighborhood Program has proven to be the kind of transformative tool we need in this effort, catalyzing public and private investment in underserved areas that enables the revitalization of entire communities. Not only does this program expand the construction of affordable housing options, but it opens the door for working class families to access new opportunities and climb the economic ladder. I’m proud to introduce the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act with Senators Blunt Rochester and Van Hollen, along with Reps. Lynch, Meeks, and Torres, as we seek to permanently reauthorize this vital work and strengthen the program in the process.” “The Ch… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T01:08:28Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-kim-reintroduce-buds-resolution-bolster-bipartisan Reps. Cleaver, Kim Reintroduce BUDS Resolution to Bolster Bipartisan Collaboration in Congress 2025-06-11 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) - Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Young Kim (R-CA), along with Representatives Scott Peters (D-CA), William Timmons (R-SC), Kevin Mullin (D-CA), and Mike Carey (R-OH), reintroduced the Building Unity through Dual Sponsors (BUDS) Resolution to bolster bipartisan collaboration in Congress. While current rules of the House of Representatives only allow for one lawmaker to serve as a sponsor of legislation, the BUDS Resolution would formally change the rules of the House of Representatives to authorize two Members of the chamber to serve as joint sponsors of a bill, resolution, or joint resolution if they are from opposing political parties. “In these deeply polarizing times, it is important that lawmakers help bridge the divides in our nation by focusing on bipartisan solutions that will benefit hardworking families in every community across the country,” said Congressman Cleaver. “As a member of the former Modernization Committee, I’ve seen firsthand that bipartisanship is still possible if we foster the environment that enables it to grow. That’s why I’m proud to join my friend Rep. Kim in reintroducing the BUDS Resolution to incentivize more cross-party collaboration in the House of Representatives.” “Bipartisanship isn’t a bad word. In fact, it’s more important than ever to find common ground to improve the lives of the American people and move this country forward. That’s why I’m proud of my record and to be ranked the most effective federal lawmaker from the state of California,” said Congresswoman Kim. “I hope the BUDS Act can encourage more collaboration in Congress that will advance more impactful policy solutions.” “The BUDS Act will encourage members to reach across the aisle and find bipartisan solutions to the toughest challenges facing Americans,” said Fix Congress Caucus Co-Chair, Rep. Scott Peters. “We know that great ideas often come from collaboration, and by simply allowing dual sponsorship, Congress will generate a lot more of those ideas and moder… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T01:08:28Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-joins-effort-protect-funding-npr-pbs-and-americas-public Rep. Cleaver Joins Effort to Protect Funding for NPR, PBS, and America’s Public Broadcasting 2025-06-10 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) joined with Representatives Dan Goldman (D-NY), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX), Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Dina Titus (D-NV), Doris Matsui (D-CA), John Larson (D-CT), and April McClain Delaney (D-MD) to protect federal funding for NPR, PBS, and America’s public broadcasting. Together, the legislators introduced an amendment to remove a provision within the Republican rescission package that would eliminate federal funding for these vital institutions, which were included in the unlawful cuts made by DOGE. The package is expected to receive a vote in the House of Representatives later this week. “At a time when families are struggling to keep up with the cost of living, my Republican colleagues are not focused on lowering costs for hardworking families; instead, they’re working to eliminate funding for public broadcasting services that provide vital information to communities across the country,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Respectfully, I don’t know a single person who voted to kill Sesame Street, but I do know families across my congressional district who rely on the services provided by outlets like NPR and PBS during times of crisis. When Republicans in the past tried to gut funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, Mr. Rogers himself stepped up to convince Congress to maintain this funding. I’ve always supported investments in our public broadcasters, and I’m hopeful my colleagues across the aisle will come to their senses and listen to the wise words of Fred Rogers before they do long-term damage to these American institutions and the Americans they serve.” The letter comes as the Trump administration and Republicans in Congress continue to attack public journalism’s editorial independence and crack down on public broadcasting nationwide. Last month, the administration issued an unlawful Executive Order directing the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) to cease all funding for NPR and PBS, which… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T01:08:28Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-horsford-introduce-bill-advancing-minority-and-women Reps. Cleaver, Horsford Introduce Bill Advancing Minority and Women Ownership of Broadcast TV, Radio 2025-06-10 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) and Steven Horsford (D-NV) introduced The Broadcast VOICES (Varied Ownership Incentives for Community Expanded Service) Act, legislation to reestablish the Federal Communications Commission’s Minority Tax Certificate Program (MTCP). From 1978 to 1995, the MTCP provided a tax incentive to those who sold their majority interest in a broadcast station to diverse individuals, increasing diverse ownership in broadcast stations by more than 550 percent. “Kansas City is proud to be home of the oldest Black-owned radio broadcast company in the United States, serving as a prime example of the quality and community connection that comes with minority-owned media outlets,” Rep. Cleaver said. “I’m honored to introduce the Broadcast VOICES Act with my friend Congressman Horsford, which will ensure opportunities are provided to more women- and minority-owned broadcasters who uplift the voices of communities that are far too often overlooked.” “Diverse ownership in broadcasting helps amplify voices, viewpoints and perspectives that our society has historically silenced,” Rep. Horsford said. “The Minority Tax Certificate Program’s nearly twenty-year success record diversifying broadcast ownership speaks for itself – not just in effective tax incentives, but also in creating economic opportunities and empowering disadvantaged communities. I’m proud to partner with Rep. Cleaver on the Broadcast VOICES Act to make sure America’s airwaves reflect the diversity of our people.” Data from 2021 shows that less than 6 percent full power commercial broadcast television stations in the United States are owned by women and less than 4 percent are minority-owned. Moreover, data also shows approximately 9 percent of FM broadcast radio stations are owned by women, while less than three percent are owned by minorities. The Broadcast VOICES Act would: Reestablish a Minority Tax Certificate Program. Establish a tax credit for broadcast owners who donate their stations t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T01:08:28Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-bacon-lead-bipartisan-letter-denouncing-inflammatory-content-social-media Bell, Bacon Lead Bipartisan Letter Denouncing Inflammatory Content on Social Media Following Antisemitic Attacks 2025-06-06 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and Don Bacon (R-Neb.) led a letter with 41 bipartisan lawmakers in urging major social media companies to take immediate action against the rise of hate speech and incitement to violence on their platforms following two recent antisemitic attacks. The letter follows recent antisemitic attacks—one in Washington, D.C., and another in Boulder, Colorado—that drew national attention not only for their brutality, but for the wave of hate filled online commentary that followed. Social media platforms were quickly flooded with posts and comments glorifying the violence, spreading antisemitic conspiracy theories, and praising the alleged attacker. The letter was also endorsed by the ADL (Anti-Defamation League) and the American Jewish Committee (AJC). “For far too long, social media platforms have allowed harmful messages, hashtags, and conspiracy theories to fester and proliferate online, targeting different communities. Following Meta’s decision earlier this year to roll back its trust and safety policies, one estimate noted this could lead to individuals encountering at least 277 million more instances of hate speech and other harmful content each year on its platforms. Since these changes, on Facebook alone, Jewish Members of Congress have experienced a fivefold increase of antisemitic harassment on the platform,” wrote the lawmakers. “Failing to meaningfully curb hate speech, including antisemitic mis- and disinformation, and allowing antisemitic incitement to violence has real-world impacts, as unfortunately was the case in Washington, D.C. on May 21, 2025. In the aftermath of this horrific attack, we have already seen what appears to be a skyrocketing number of antisemitic conspiracy theories accusing the attack of being a “false flag” operation — an abhorrent narrative scapegoating Jews for being targeted by acts of hatred and terrorism, falsely claiming the attack was staged by Israel or the Jewish community for sympathy or to entangle the Unit… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:34:38Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-joins-199-lawmakers-bipartisan-effort-save-job-corps Rep. Cleaver Joins 199 Lawmakers in Bipartisan Effort to Save Job Corps 2025-06-06 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) joined Congressmen Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA), Brett Guthrie (R-KY), and nearly 200 other congressional lawmakers in urging the Department of Labor to continue the Job Corps program. In a letter to Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Cleaver and the bipartisan cohort of lawmakers highlighted the benefits of the program and reiterated its importance to young workers and small businesses across the nation. “Nearly 20,000 young people utilize Job Corps to learn skills for in-demand vocational and technical job training,” the lawmakers wrote. “Job Corps is one of the few national programs that specifically targets the 16-24-year-old population that is neither working, nor in school, and provides them with a direct pathway into employment openings in industries such as manufacturing and shipbuilding. The program also connects these young Americans with apprenticeships, higher education opportunities, or the military.” “As companies continue to onshore and invest in the men and women of our country, a steady stream of skilled laborers will be required to meet the growing workforce demand,” the lawmakers continued. “The Job Corps program is uniquely positioned to fill that role and provide these hardworking young Americans with the vocational and technical job training that will set them and our country up for success.” “There is no one more capable than the American worker when given a chance at success. We urge you to support our request so that local Job Corps Centers can continue connecting young Americans with careers and opportunities available to them. We are confident that, in collaboration with the Administration and Job Corps Centers in our communities, we can strengthen this program, continuing to develop a highly skilled and competitive labor force,” the lawmakers concluded. On May 29, the U.S. Department of Labor issued a notice that it will begin a phased pause in operations at contractor-operated Job Corps centers acros… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:34:38Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-lawler-reintroduce-bipartisan-hud-legislation-ensure Reps. Cleaver, Lawler Reintroduce Bipartisan HUD Legislation to Ensure Annual Oversight 2025-06-05 2025 2025-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (MO-05) and Mike Lawler (NY-17) reintroduced the HUD Accountability Act of 2025, a bipartisan measure that would require the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to testify before Congress on an annual basis. The bill aims to strengthen transparency and ensure HUD leadership is held accountable amid an ongoing housing affordability crisis. “Whether a Republican or Democratic administration, it is imperative that the people’s representatives have an opportunity to provide oversight of the Executive Branch on behalf of the public, which includes bringing Cabinet officials before Congress to explain their policymaking actions and motivations,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I was proud to support this bipartisan legislation last Congress, and I’m happy to reintroduce it with Congressman Lawler as we seek to lower housing costs and ensure transparency for the American people.” “With families in New York and across the country being crushed by skyrocketing housing costs, Congress needs to take this crisis seriously, and that starts with oversight,” said Congressman Lawler. “In the past, there have been long gaps between appearances by the HUD Secretary before the Financial Services Committee. That lack of regular oversight isn’t acceptable. Our bill simply ensures that the Secretary provides annual testimony on the Department’s programs, finances, and priorities. Last Congress, I hosted the first congressional field hearing in Rockland County in years to hear directly from constituents about how high housing costs are affecting their lives. Whether it’s addressing the workforce housing crunch or improving HUD oversight, I’m focused on bringing greater transparency and accountability to programs meant to serve the American people.” The HUD Accountability Act, which passed committee last Congress with bipartisan backing, would require the HUD Secretary to testify annually for five years before the House Financial Services Committee and the S… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:34:38Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-introduces-legislation-collect-data-interactions-between-law-enforcement Bell Introduces Legislation to Collect Data on Interactions Between Law Enforcement and People with Mental Illness 2025-05-29 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) introduced the Public Safety and Mental Health Reporting Act, legislation aimed at increasing transparency and improving public safety through comprehensive data collection on interactions between law enforcement officers and individuals with mental illness. This introduction comes during Mental Health Awareness Month, underscoring the urgent need to better understand and address how mental health intersects with public safety. "Every day, our communities see the crucial intersection of mental health and law enforcement," said Rep. Bell. "Without comprehensive data, we cannot effectively address these encounters and ensure the safety and well-being of all involved. This legislation is about transparency, accountability, and better-informed policies to protect both citizens and officers." The Public Safety and Mental Health Reporting Act directs the Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to acquire annual data on law enforcement interactions with individuals experiencing mental illness. It establishes a path forward for evidence based qualitative data collection, which will be used strictly for research and statistical analysis, safeguarding individual privacy. Additionally, the bill mandates the annual publication of this data summary, making the information readily accessible to Congress and the public to promote accountability and foster evidence-based solutions. Bell has been a consistent advocate for public safety reform. In April, Bell introduced his groundbreaking Justice Forward Agenda, a bold two-part initiative aimed at transforming the criminal legal system by shifting away from punishment and incarceration and toward community-based alternatives that promote prevention, stability, and public safety. Read the full bill text here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-awarded-2025-shirley-chisholm-award-housing Congressman Cleaver Awarded 2025 Shirley Chisholm Award for Housing by National Urban League 2025-05-28 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver has been awarded the 2025 Shirley Chisholm Award for Housing by the National Urban League, given to a lawmaker whose commitment and work has expanded access to fair and affordable housing in the United States. In a ceremony this month, Cleaver accepted the prestigious award from National Urban League President and CEO Marc Morial at the organization’s 2025 Empowerment Summit in Washington, DC. The National Urban League is the nation’s largest historic civil rights and urban advocacy organization. “Since my first days on the City Council in Kansas City, my strongest passion and highest priority has been the work to expand housing opportunity for everyday families,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I understand what it means to live in a shack with no electricity or running water, and I know firsthand the challenges that come with America’s underinvestment in housing that is truly accessible and affordable, which is why I’ve spent my career working to protect and strengthen housing programs that serve low- and middle-income families of all backgrounds. To receive this award, named in honor of the great civil rights champion Shirley Chisholm, is extraordinarily meaningful to me. Just as her work helped pave the way for families like mine to rise out of poverty, I hope the work I’ve done in Kansas City and Washington will continue to change the trajectory of families who are every bit as deserving of the American dream.” Since coming to Washington, Congressman Cleaver has fought tirelessly to bring housing investments to Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District and passed multiple bipartisan overhauls of America’s federal housing programs. The Global Financial Crisis of 2008 destroyed trillions in home equity and over half the wealth of the African American households in the United States. As a new member on the House Financial Services Committee, Congressman Cleaver was instrumental in national recovery efforts through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-members-missouri-delegation-call-swift-approval-governor-kehoes-federal Bell, Members of the Missouri Delegation Call for Swift Approval of Governor Kehoe’s Federal Disaster Declaration 2025-05-27 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and five Representatives of the Missouri Delegation, along with both Missouri Senators, led a bipartisan letter to President Trump urging immediate approval of Governor Mike Kehoe’s request for a major disaster declaration following the deadly and destructive storms that struck the St. Louis region on May 16. “On May 16, 2025, devastating storms swept across the Midwest, triggering catastrophic flooding and tornadoes that claimed at least 28 lives—26 of them in Missouri and Kentucky. In St. Louis alone, at least five individuals were killed, dozens were hospitalized, and more than 5,000 structures were damaged, with losses estimated to exceed $1 billion. These storms come on the heels of damaging weather events in March and April, further compounding the challenges facing communities already working to rebuild,” wrote the lawmakers. “The State of Missouri has been working closely with local governments to coordinate emergency shelter, debris removal, infrastructure assessments, and other critical response efforts. A major disaster declaration would unlock vital federal assistance to support these operations, including Public Assistance for emergency protective measures and infrastructure repair, Individual Assistance for displaced and impacted residents, and Hazard Mitigation assistance to help reduce the risk of future disasters. These resources are essential to stabilizing affected communities and safeguarding public health and safety,” continued the lawmakers. “Given the scale of devastation and the urgent need for federal assistance, we respectfully request swift approval of Missouri’s disaster declaration. We appreciate your attention to this matter and stand ready to support efforts to ensure resources reach those who need them most.” concluded the lawmakers. A major disaster declaration is a critical tool for unlocking federal assistance in the wake of extreme weather events. It allows communities to access Public Assistance for emergency work… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-ranking-member-waters-fsc-committee-democrats-introduce Rep. Cleaver, Ranking Member Waters, FSC Committee Democrats Introduce the Stop TRUMP in Crypto Act 2025-05-27 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member Maxine Waters (D-CA), the top Democrat on the House Financial Services Committee, and Committee Democrats have introduced H.R. 3573, the Stop Trading, Retention, and Unfair Market Payoffs in Crypto Act of 2025 or the Stop TRUMP in Crypto Act of 2025. The landmark legislation would prevent the President, Vice President, Members of Congress, and their immediate families from inappropriately profiting from cryptocurrencies. “Whether accepting a $400 million jet as a personal gift or selling access to the White House through his various crypto schemes, President Trump’s ongoing and brazen corruption should have every American deeply concerned and demanding accountability,” said Congressman Cleaver. “As Democrats in Congress seek to uphold the rule of law and ensure the president is not selling out the American people, I’m proud to cosponsor Ranking Member Waters’ proposal to prevent any president, regardless of political party, from using cryptocurrencies to personally profit while in office.” “Donald Trump is preparing to dine with the top donors of his memecoin who’ve made him, and his family, richer. Meanwhile, American families are getting poorer and growing increasingly anxious under his failed leadership. Nowhere is Trump’s blatant disregard and disrespect for the rule of law more apparent than in the way he has exploited the office of the Presidency to promote shady, fraudulent crypto ventures that hold no real value, and serve no true purpose other than to pad his pockets,” said Ranking Member Waters. “Trump’s crypto con is not just a scam to target investors. It’s also a dangerous backdoor for selling influence over American policies to the highest foreign bidder. For all we know, Russia, China, or even North Korea could be buying Trump’s crypto to secure favors from the White House. That’s why I’ve introduced the ‘Stop TRUMP in Crypto Act.’ This bill will stop Trump’s brazen crypto corruption and prevent any President, Vic… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-rep-bell-votes-no-shameful-republican-tax-bill Statement: Rep Bell Votes NO on Shameful Republican Tax Bill 2025-05-22 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) released the following statement following his vote against the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”: “The shameful bill Republicans just rammed through in the dead of night hands a massive tax break to the richest Americans, while folks in St. Louis are stuck holding the bill. It guts Medicaid, cutting nearly $600 million from Missouri’s health system and putting coverage for 33,000 of our neighbors in St. Louis at risk. It also slashes SNAP, making it harder for needy families to put food on the table. We are called to serve. To fight for working class families. To protect the vulnerable. To govern with a conscience. This bill fails every one of those tests. I voted no.” According to nonpartisan estimates, the Republican tax plan would add more than $4 trillion to the national debt over the next decade while significantly cutting funding for programs like Medicaid and SNAP. The Joint Economic Committee projects that roughly 13.7 million Americans would lose their health insurance under the proposed changes—more than 33,000 of them in Missouri’s First District. At the same time, the plan would extend tax cuts that disproportionately benefit the highest earners, with the top 0.1% receiving average annual tax breaks exceeding $300,000. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-announces-4-million-brownfields-grant-has-been Congressman Cleaver Announces $4 Million Brownfields Grant Has Been Awarded to Kansas City 2025-05-22 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded the City of Kansas City a $4 million Brownfields Cleanup Grant. The federal funding will be used to clean up 47 vacant parcels known as the Washington Wheatley Vacant Lots site on Agnes Avenue, Walrond Avenue, East 19th Street, and East 20th Street, as well as the former Benson Manufacturing Company Site, located at the intersection of East 18th Street and Agnes Avenue. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invested more than $1.5 billion through EPA’s highly successful Brownfields Program, which included a major increase in EPA Brownfield Grant funding, enabling local communities to clean up, redevelop, and reinvent areas previously contaminated by toxic substances,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I’m pleased to see this highly successful program continue to support the public health and economic development of neighborhoods like Washington-Wheatley in Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, and I’ll continue pushing for bipartisan solutions that benefit Missouri families like this one moving forward.” EPA’s Brownfields program began in 1995 and has provided nearly $2.9 billion in Brownfield Grants to assess and clean up contaminated properties and return blighted properties to productive reuse. To date, brownfields investments leveraged over $42 billion in cleanup and redevelopment. Over the years, the relatively small investment of federal funding was able to leverage over 220,500 jobs from both public and private sources. The Washington Wheatley Vacant Lots were used primarily as residential properties since 1936 and are contaminated with PCBs, semi-volatile organic contaminants (SVOCs), and heavy metals. Operations at the former Benson Manufacturing Company site included the production of fabricated brass, aluminum, and other metal alloys used in aircraft parts, light fixtures, architectural ornamentation, appliances, and aluminum barrels for breweries. Over time, the si… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-against-gop-budget-rips-healthcare-and-food Rep. Cleaver Votes Against GOP Budget That Rips Healthcare and Food Assistance from Working Class Families to Fund Tax Cuts for the Wealthy 2025-05-22 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted against the Republican budget proposal that would rip healthcare away from nearly 14 million Americans, take food assistance away from millions more through cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and explode the national deficit by approximately $3.8 trillion to expand tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans. According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, the legislation takes from the poorest Americans to give another tax break that overwhelmingly benefits the wealthiest in the nation. “Today, my Republican colleagues in the House of Representatives passed one of the most reckless and fiscally irresponsible bills that I have ever seen in my time in Congress, guaranteeing a massive redistribution of wealth from the poorest families to the wealthiest one percent, while exploding our national deficit by more than $3 trillion,” said Congressman Cleaver. “At a time when income inequality is at historic levels and working class families are pleading for relief, congressional Republicans are making the largest cuts to Medicaid and SNAP in American history, ripping healthcare and food assistance away from vulnerable families, to give another tax break that lines the pockets of billionaires like Elon Musk and Donald Trump. It is a moral monstrosity that will have devastating repercussions in the years to come if the Senate does not take action to stop it.” According to estimates, the resolution would increase inflation, with the average American household’s purchasing power falling by $300-$1,250 over the next five years. That does not include the average loss of $2,800 for the average American due to the president’s previously announced costly tariff plans. The Treasury Department found that the extension of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act would give an average annual tax cut of $32,118 for those in the top 1 percent and an average annual tax cut of $314,266 for those in the top 0.1 percent. When adding add… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-bell-demands-answers-cuts-national-weather-service-following-deadly Rep. Bell Demands Answers on Cuts to National Weather Service Following Deadly Midwest Storms 2025-05-21 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) led a letter, signed by U.S. Representatives Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.), Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.), Morgan McGarvey (D-Ky.), and Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.), to Secretary Howard Lutnick of the Department of Commerce and Acting Administrator Laura Grimm of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), expressing deep concern over recent staffing and funding reductions to the National Weather Service (NWS) and their impact on public safety following this weekend’s deadly tornado outbreak. The letter comes in the wake of severe storms that tore through the Midwest, leaving at least 28 people dead—including five in St. Louis—and damaging or destroying over 5,000 structures across the region. Preliminary estimates place the cost of damage in excess of $1 billion. “We cannot afford to further weaken our national weather response infrastructure. As the frequency and severity of storms increase, the capacity to issue accurate and timely warnings becomes even more critical to saving lives.” said Rep. Bell. The letter raises alarm over decisions made by the Trump Administration and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) that have led to staffing shortages and operational gaps at NWS field offices nationwide. These reductions have been linked to delays in issuing warnings and forecasts, jeopardizing emergency preparedness and response efforts. In the letter, Congressman Bell and his colleagues request a response by June 20, 2025, to the following questions: Did the Trump Administration’s funding and staffing cuts to NOAA and the NWS directly impact the reporting and tracking of the recent storms? In response to these storms, what immediate steps is NOAA taking to ensure that NWS field offices are properly resourced and staffed? Following the March 20, 2025 ruling requiring the reinstatement of tens of thousands of federal employees, how many NWS employees have been rehired? While the Department of Commerce initially announced the rehiring … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-rep-bell-releases-statement-following-devastating-st-louis-storms STATEMENT: Rep. Bell Releases Statement Following Devastating St. Louis Storms 2025-05-17 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) released the following statement in response to deadly storms that devastated the St. Louis region: “Yesterday’s storms hit St. Louis hard—at least five lives have been lost, homes torn apart, roads blocked, and thousands still without power. I’m heartbroken for the families who lost loved ones. For the folks waking up to damage they can’t afford to fix. For the people still waiting on the lights to come back on. This is a heavy moment for our region, and we’re feeling it together. I want to thank our first responders, utility workers, and neighbors who jumped into action to help. My team has been in touch with local officials, state and federal partners, and we’re ready to do everything we can to support the response and the recovery. This can’t just be about picking up the pieces—we’ve got to make our infrastructure stronger, invest in resilience, and make sure our communities are better prepared for the next time. To everyone hurting right now: you’re not alone. We're in this together, we’ll clean up together, and we’ll fight together to make sure St. Louis comes back stronger than ever.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-wesley-bell-statement-passing-former-senator-christopher-kit-bond Congressman Wesley Bell Statement on the Passing of Former Senator Christopher “Kit” Bond 2025-05-13 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) released the following statement in response to the passing of former Missouri Governor and U.S. Senator Christopher “Kit” Bond: “Kit Bond served Missouri with dedication—as Governor, Senator, and public servant for decades. His commitment to our state was unwavering. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleavers-statement-passing-former-missouri-governor-and Congressman Cleaver’s Statement on the Passing of Former Missouri Governor and Senator Christopher S. “Kit” Bond 2025-05-13 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after the passing of former Missouri Governor and Senator Christopher S. “Kit” Bond. “Kit Bond was a superb statesman, an exemplary public servant, and a dear friend to myself and Missourians across the Show Me State. From his time as State Auditor to his stewardship of Missouri as Governor, and eventually as Missouri’s Senator in Washington, Kit was the kind of elected official that every Missourian could be proud to call their representative; I know I was. “Having come from the small town of Mexico, Missouri, Kit would go on to graduate top of his class in law school and use his brilliant legal mind to clerk for the Chief Judge on the Fifth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. He was the epitome of the American Dream and what is possible through hard work and perseverance. While he could have stayed in Washington, D.C. to pursue a lucrative career in law, his love for Missouri and passion for public service were a magnetic force that brought him back home. “As a City Councilman and then Mayor, I had the privilege of working with Governor-turned-Senator Bond on numerous projects to the benefit of Kansas City and those who reside in our community. From the Charles E. Whittaker Federal Courthouse to the National World War I Museum and Memorial, as well as the redevelopment of 18th & Vine and the construction of the Christopher S. Bond Bridge, one cannot walk around our community without experiencing the important work of Kit Bond – and every Kansas Citian should be grateful for his willingness to seek common ground and work across the aisle to make each of them possible.” “With time, our professional relationship grew into a profound friendship that I will cherish forever. It is with deep sadness that I say farewell to a true friend, and I extend my deepest condolences to the entire Bond family as they grieve this colossal loss. May every Missourian take a moment to give thanks to this Missouri hero, and may h… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kansas-city-lawmakers-support-national-historic-landmark-designation Kansas City Lawmakers Support National Historic Landmark Designation of Quindaro Townsite 2025-05-13 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Derek Schmidt (R-KS), and Sharice Davids (D-KS) have called on the National Park Service to designate the Quindaro Townsite in Wyandotte County as a National Historic Landmark. The Kansas City, Kansas site served as a critical entry point for anti-slavery settlers and a sanctuary for those escaping bondage via the Underground Railroad prior to and during the U.S. Civil War. “The Quindaro Townsite is a vital piece of U.S. history that demonstrates our national commitment to liberty and self-determination, which ought to be celebrated and shared with future generations,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Just as I was proud to introduce the bipartisan Quindaro Townsite National Historic Landmark Act with Reps. Schmidt and Davids, I’m once again honored to advocate for the designation of Quindaro as a National Historic Landmark, preserving this important chapter in America’s story until the end of time.” “Quindaro is a meaningful part of our region, state, and country’s history,” Congressman Schmidt said. “Recognizing the site as a National Historic Landmark will provide the designation necessary to properly preserve the legacy of this important historical site. I’m proud to lead my fellow Kansas City area lawmakers in this effort.” “Quindaro is a powerful part of Kansas’ history in the fight for freedom and equality, but for too long, local preservation efforts of this important site have lacked much-needed resources,” Representative Davids said. “I’m proud to work with Representatives Schmidt and Cleaver to ensure this site receives the recognition and protection it deserves through a National Historic Landmark designation.” Founded in 1857, Quindaro emerged as a beacon for Free-State advocates during the turbulent “Bleeding Kansas” era. Strategically located along the Missouri River, it served as a critical entry point for anti-slavery settlers and a sanctuary for those escaping bondage via the Underground Railroad. The town’s establishment was a … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-local-federal-employees-hold-press-conference Congressman Cleaver, Local Federal Employees Hold Press Conference Condemning Cuts to Federal Workforce 2025-05-10 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) held a press conference with local employees from the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Missouri National Education Association (MNEA), National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC), and the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) to highlight the impact of the Trump administration and Elon Musk’s cuts to the federal workforce. More than 30,000 federal workers are employed in Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, with one economist estimating the region could lose 6,000 good-paying federal jobs, which could wipe out thousands of other jobs in the process. “The Trump administration and Elon Musk have treated our federal workforce like a disposable expense, rather than the backbone of a functioning democracy,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Slashing jobs, hollowing out agencies, and undermining public service isn’t reform – it’s sabotage. I’m proud to stand with the unions representing the men and women who keep this country running. Today’s gathering is a line in the sand. We’re standing with the workers who’ve been silenced, sidelined, and scapegoated – and we won’t let billionaires hollow out public service under the guise of efficiency without a fight.” The basics: Where do federal employees work? Federal employees work in every congressional district in the country. In fact, 80 percent of the 2.3 million federal civilian employees work outside the D.C. region. As a result, mass firings have the potential to not only affect government services, but also to disrupt local economies. What departments employ the most federal employees? Eight departments each employ over 100,000 civilian employees. They are the Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Homeland Security, Department of the Army, Department of the Navy, Department of the Air Force, Department of Justice, Department of Treasur… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-wesley-bell-announces-nearly-5-million-federal-funding-st-louis-lambert Rep. Wesley Bell Announces Nearly $5 Million in Federal Funding for St. Louis Lambert International Airport 2025-05-08 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) announced that the City of St. Louis has been awarded $4,902,750 through the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG) program. This funding will support the design phase of a new public-use deicing pad and containment facility at St. Louis Lambert International Airport. This investment marks a major step forward in modernizing critical infrastructure at Lambert, boosting the airport’s operational efficiency during winter months and strengthening environmental protections around deicing procedures. “This is a smart investment in St. Louis—one that makes our airport safer, more resilient, and more efficient,” said Congressman Bell. “It’s about keeping flights on schedule, protecting our environment, and making sure Lambert remains a competitive hub for travelers and businesses alike. I’m proud to help bring these federal dollars home.” “This project will help us keep planes moving during winter weather, allowing St. Louisans to stay connected to the world, whether they’re traveling for business or leisure,” said St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer. “I am grateful to Congressman Bell for his leadership in making this happen. This is the kind of federal collaboration necessary for St. Louis and the region to move forward.” The new deicing pad will span more than 1.4 million square feet and help reduce delays caused by winter weather, while ensuring that runoff from deicing chemicals is properly contained and treated. This award covers the initial design phase of the project, laying the foundation for future construction. The funding is part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Airport Infrastructure Grants program. Signed into law by President Biden in 2021, it supports critical upgrades to airport terminals, runways, and other aviation facilities across the country. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-kaptur-quigley-johnson-send-letter-opposing-ed-martin-nomination-over Bell, Kaptur, Quigley, Johnson Send Letter Opposing Ed Martin Nomination Over Russian Media Ties 2025-05-06 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.), Mike Quigley (D-Ill.), Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio), along with Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), led a letter to President Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi raising serious concerns over the potential nomination of Ed Martin to serve as U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia. The letter cites Martin’s extensive history of appearances on Russian state-funded media outlets RT and Sputnik—over 150 times in recent years—as cause for alarm given the sensitive nature of the role. The lawmakers argue that Martin’s public statements on these platforms, many of which were not disclosed, have often echoed Kremlin propaganda and undermined U.S. national security interests, particularly regarding Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. “Mr. Martin’s public contributions to Russian-backed platforms are deeply troubling to consider when considering how these views may reflect his stance toward critical issues related to Ukraine and national security. The downplaying of Russian aggression and interference in Ukraine he has espoused on Russian media raises concerns about his ability to uphold U.S. interests, particularly at a time when Russia's invasion of Ukraine has escalated tensions globally. Additionally, his denying evidence of a Russian military buildup near Ukraine’s borders and suggesting that it was the U.S., not the Assad Regime, who “engineered” the deadly 2017 Syrian chemical weapons attack. His appearances have included promoting narratives that align with Russian propaganda over U.S. policy positions and our national interests,” said the lawmakers. “Crucially, Mr. Martin did not fully disclose his extensive involvement with RT and Sputnik as required on his Senate Judiciary Committee questionnaire. This failure in transparency regarding his associations with Russian-backed media outlets calls into question his judgment and commitment to serving the interests of the United States. The U.S. government has consistently recognized RT and Sputnik as propaganda and intellige… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cleaver-graves-introduce-resolution-honoring-americas-teachers Cleaver, Graves Introduce Resolution Honoring America’s Teachers 2025-05-06 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) - In honor of National Teacher Appreciation Week, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Sam Graves (R-MO) introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives to recognize the dedication and lasting impact of America’s teachers. This bipartisan resolution highlights the important role that teachers play in shaping the next generation to become productive, responsible, and successful citizens, and encourages every American to show appreciation for the teachers in their life. “America’s teachers play an invaluable role in shaping our children, and the future of the country, into the resilient, intelligent, and morally virtuous individuals we expect them to become,” said Congressman Cleaver. “During Teacher Appreciation Week, I’m proud to join my friend Sam Graves in introducing this bipartisan resolution to formally recognize the important work educators do in Missouri and all across this great nation. On behalf of the communities we represent and from the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for your service.” “Our dedicated teachers go above and beyond to ensure that our children have the best possible education,” said Congressman Graves. “They show up every day to help students succeed, learn, and grow. I’ve been lucky to learn from great teachers throughout my life, and I’ve seen the same impact on my kids and grandkids. Thank you to all of America’s teachers. During Teacher Appreciation Week and every week, we thank the educators who shape our communities and help prepare our children for a successful future.” Congressman Cleaver has been a strong supporter of public education and American teachers. In 2023, Congressman Cleaver co-introduced the American Teacher Act to incentivize states to establish a K-12 teacher salary requirement of at least $60,000. Additionally, Rep. Cleaver previously called on Governor Parson to strengthen Missouri’s education system by boosting teacher pay. In March, following President Trump’s illegal executive order to dismantle the Department of… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cleaver-waters-lead-call-protect-rural-housing-funding-congress Cleaver, Waters, Lead Call to Protect Rural Housing Funding in Congress 2025-05-05 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – As Congress begins the appropriations process to determine funding levels for federal programs, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, and Maxine Waters (D-CA), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Financial Services, are leading dozens of lawmakers in a call to protect federal funding for rural housing programs under the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In a letter to House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK), Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Subcommittee Chairman Andy Harris (R-MD), and Subcommittee Ranking Member Sanford Bishop (D-GA), the lawmakers are calling on Congress to provide robust funding to the Rural Development Voucher Program, Housing Rehabilitation and Preservation, and the Section 521 Rental Assistance Program. “Rural America is home to nearly 70 million people, or 20% of the U.S. population, who like the rest of the country are struggling with an aging housing stock, undersupply challenges, rising rents, and worsening homelessness,” the lawmakers wrote. “Federally funded housing programs through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are often some of the only sources of affordable housing solutions in rural areas. Unfortunately, it has been reported that USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and the Trump Administration have plans to significantly cut staffing within the agency by at least 30%.” “However, as Democrats and Republicans alike have pointed out over the years, USDA’s role in addressing the unique housing needs of rural America cannot be overstated,” the lawmakers continued. “To address the growing housing needs in rural America, we urge you to consider the funding and programmatic requests for USDA’s Rural Housing Service (RHS), as outlined in this letter.” Specific funding and policy requests … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T00:49:36Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-casten-lead-call-transparency-climate-risks-federal Reps. Cleaver, Casten Lead Call for Transparency on Climate Risks to Federal Mortgage Programs 2025-05-02 2025 2025-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, and Sean Casten (D-IL) led 14 House Democrats to call on Congress to direct the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to conduct a study of climate-related risks to its loan guarantee programs. In a letter to Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Chairman Steve Womack (R-AR) and Ranking Member Jim Clyburn (D-SC), the lawmakers argued a study was necessary to understand the full impact of climate disasters on the federal housing finance ecosystem and loan performance. “The Federal Housing Administration’s (FHA) mortgage financing programs enable billions of dollars of capital to support the purchase, refinance, construction, and rehabilitation of single- and multi-family housing and assisted housing across the United States,” the lawmakers wrote. “However, due to the increasing frequency and severity of weather disasters caused by climate change, homeowners may find it challenging to make mortgage payments, which could lead to defaulting on FHA-insured loans.” “Given the FHA’s prominent role in the mortgage market, we respectfully request that the Subcommittee include the following report language,” the lawmakers continued. “This effort is crucial to understanding the impact of climate disaster broadly on the housing finance ecosystem and loan performance, specifically delinquency and default.” In 2024, 27 climate disaster events in the U.S. resulted in nearly $185 billion in total damages. If homeowners cannot bear the costs of climate disasters and are unable to make payments on mortgages or other loans, these resulting defaults could push losses into different parts of the financial system, which could shift the risk to lenders – or, in the case of FHA-insured mortgages, to the federal government and American taxpayers – triggering shocks to the broader financial system. Given these risks, the lawm… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:20:29Z

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