Dear Friend,

After several chaotic weeks in Washington, D.C., I was grateful to return home and spend time traveling throughout our community, listening to the issues that matter most to Wake County residents. During my time back in North Carolina, I had the opportunity to meet with constituents and local leaders who are deeply committed to the strength and well-being of our community.

There’s no question that this is a challenging moment for our state and country. That’s why I want to share an update with you about how I'm fighting for our community.

Town Hall in Rolesville

Thank you to everyone who joined me, Wake County Board of Commissioners Chairman Don Mial, and North Carolina Senator Terence Everitt for an important conversation about the challenges we’re facing in North Carolina and how we can work together to protect our community from the Trump administration's dangerous policies.

We discussed a wide range of issues, including Trump's war of choice in the Middle East and how it has cost Americans over $1 billion per day, the so-called 'SAVE America Act,' and access to affordable housing.

I appreciated having a respectful and productive conversation, even with those who may not agree with me. Democracy depends on engaged citizens who show up and make their voices heard. Please be sure to subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on social media to receive an update when I host my next town hall.

State of Women

Last week, I hosted my office's third annual State of Women event. This yearly gathering brings together elected officials and women leaders across the Triangle to connect, network, and discuss solutions to the most pressing issues women are facing.

My favorite part of this event is seeing new connections form between women from across our community. At a time when women are facing unprecedented attacks—whether it's threats to their health care or access to the ballot box—it’s more important than ever to bring women together who are committed to fighting for common goals.

$850,000 To Second Street Homeless Shelter

I was thrilled to announce $850,000 in federal funding that I secured for the Second Street Homeless Shelter, operated by the Bryant Center. As our community faces a growing housing affordability crisis, this project could not come at a better time. I’m incredibly grateful to the state and local leaders for helping bring this project to life—and to the individuals who have experienced homelessness and courageously shared their stories.

Student Government Forum at NC State

I had the pleasure of speaking with NC State students about the most pressing issues affecting students today, from immigration policies targeting international students to the administration's cuts to Pell Grants. These talented young people are the future leaders, engineers, and changemakers of our community.

Please know that I have been using every tool at my disposal to protect North Carolina’s students, educators, and institutions of higher education from attacks by the Trump administration.

Q&A at the Cardinal at North Hills

I spoke with the wonderful ladies of the Cardinal at North Hills about the issues older Americans are facing, from cuts to health care to delays in accessing Social Security benefits.

I know how hard our seniors have worked to build the foundation that future generations stand on. That's why I will continue fighting to protect Medicare and Social Security from cuts. Older Americans have paid into these programs for most of their lives and deserve to retire with the dignity.

Discussing Medicaid Cuts at NeighborHealth

I visited NeighborHealth Center to discuss harmful federal health care cuts with local leaders, as well as 11-year-old Finley and her parents, who rely on Medicaid to provide care for their daughter. Finley uses a wheelchair, and her parents are deeply worried that the proposed Medicaid cuts will dramatically reduce her quality of life.

Finley and her family are just one example of the millions of lives that are affected by Republicans’ cruel health care cuts. They have gutted Medicaid and refuse to extend ACA tax credits. Now, North Carolinians and Americans across the country are struggling to afford life-saving care.

Please know that I continue to advocate for a solution in Congress. In January, I voted for a three-year extension of ACA tax credits. The Senate has failed to act, but I will continue making health care a priority.

The Poe Center's PlayWELL Park Opens

I had the opportunity to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the grand opening of the new PlayWELL park at the Poe Center. This new facility is an interactive playground designed to teach children about human body systems through physical activity and outside exploration.

The Poe Center has been an indispensable pillar of our community for 35 years by providing hands-on programming for young people. I am so excited for the children and families who will get to use this wonderful space.

If you have questions about my work in Congress or need help with a federal agency, please don't hesitate to reach out to my office. My team is here to assist. You can send me an email through my website or call my Raleigh office at (919) 334-0840. For updates on my work on behalf of our community, follow me on Facebook, BlueSky, and Instagram.

Very truly yours,

Deborah