Staff report
Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) took the stage in the Coachella Valley this weekend to join a community town hall hosted by the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee and Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz.
The town hall brought together local leaders, including House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Steering and Policy Committee Co-Chair Nanette Barragán, constituents, storytellers and committee members for a discussion on the most pressing issues facing women and families in California and across the country.
The town hall provided a platform for residents to share their personal experiences and concerns directly with House Democratic leadership. Key issues raised by community members included access to reproductive healthcare, fears about potential cuts to Medicaid under the Trump administration and concerns regarding the Department of Education. Democratic leaders responded by outlining their efforts to counteract these policies in Congress, the courts and local communities.
“There are 96 Democratic women in the House of Representatives and it’s our job to stand up for the issues women face. We listen to and speak for women in our own districts, and for women everywhere, including the Coachella Valley, whether you’re represented by Raul Ruiz or Ken Calvert. It was moving to hear some of your stories today,” Leger Fernández said. “Women have lots of power, and when we raise our voices and our stories to protect our families and children, world, watch out. Because we will win those battles.”
Ruiz highlighted the event’s importance in connecting constituents with national policy decision-makers, ensuring local concerns are heard.
“This town hall gave our community a powerful seat at the table in Washington,” Ruiz said.“By connecting constituents with House leadership, we’re ensuring the voices of our region are heard and reflected in national policy. I’m proud to bring the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee to our district to listen, learn, and take action.”
Jeffries criticized the House Republican budget as an attack on vulnerable populations.
“The House Republican budget is an attack on every single American, particularly children, families, seniors and those with disabilities. It is unacceptable, unconscionable and un-American,” Jeffries said. “House Democrats will continue to lift up the stories of everyday people in every corner of the country and do everything that we can to stop this budget in its tracks, bury it in the ground and make sure it never rises again.”
Leger Fernandez will be in Roswell on Friday to hold a Veterans Town Hall. You can sign up online to register and get the time and location.
Ah, This explains why she voted against keeping men out womens sports. Don’t worry, we already know that she does not really represent her citizens. Pay attention, flip NM Red .