Dear Neighbor–

It was a difficult and troubling week in Washington as we voted to remove Kevin McCarthy from the Speaker chair. It’s the most difficult vote I’ve had to take in Congress to date. Ultimately, the extremism he enabled and the chaos he created in Congress were too big a threat to the American people to let him remain in charge, without more significant accountability measures in place. I follow a line of Republican predecessors who pushed back against the scourge of extremism in one way or another overtaking the Republican party. I owe it to the voters of West Michigan to continue–and expand–on that work.

You can read my full statement on the vote below, and, as always, may contact my office with any questions or concerns.


Following the vote, Republicans recessed to conference together and decide who they will next put up for Speaker. With the clock ticking on the budget, they sent us home. 

I wasted no time getting out in the district and learning about ways I can better improve the lives of West Michiganders in Congress.

On Thursday, I joined Supermercado Mexico's co-owner, Javier Olvera, for a tour of one of their locations. As a member of the House Small Business Committee, I'm committed to making sure small businesses have the resources they need to thrive—including businesses just like this one— that provide healthy and nutritious food to our communities.

Safe Haven Grand Rapids’ survivor-centered, faith-led service is an incredible resource for victims of relationship abuse and human trafficking in West Michigan. They are truly changing lives. It was an honor to speak at their luncheon this week and I look forward to being a partner in their work in Congress.

We’ll be reauthorizing the Farm Bill this year, and it’s essential to me to understand the needs of those who maintain our food supply here in the U.S. I had the opportunity to visit two essential agricultural sites in West Michigan.

Revolution Farms is changing the game by making healthy food available every season – even in harsh Michigan winters. This type of farming innovation is so important to West Michigan’s long-term economic growth. It was so fun to visit their facilities and learn more about their work!

Food practices matter, especially as we consider how to ensure that our planet is livable for generations to come. I had a great time checking out Grand Valley State University’s Sustainable Agricultural Project, which is educating the next generation—showing them that sustainable food practices are both important and a viable career path!

Finally, as we experience costly division right now, I visited one of the great centers of community cohesion and togetherness–the public library. The Kent District Library’s Grandville location is a ray of sunshine–welcoming families for early morning crafts and story hour on a beautiful fall Friday. A special thanks to Mayor Maas for the warm welcome, and all the KDL leadership and staff for all you do to keep our community learning and growing. 

The week in preview

We have no idea what to expect this next week in Washington, but I know that it has never been more important for us to come together as a country and find a way forward. As I write this, Israel has declared that it is going to war following an attack by Hamas. This is no time for the U.S. House to be in disarray. I stand ready–as I have been–to work with my Republican colleagues on a way forward. I covet your engagement, and if I may be so bold as to ask–for your prayers as well. I’m here to serve you, West Michigan.

Warmly, 

Hillary Scholten
Member of Congress