JUNE 18, 2026

Dear Fourth District Constituent,

The House was not in session this week, and I was working in Minnesota where I had the opportunity to address an audience of Minnesota's workers, small business owners, and leaders from our colleges and universities about creating jobs, growing our economy, and developing our state's workforce. Throughout the week, I've been hearing about how Minnesota families are struggling to afford the cost of living because of President Trump's tariffs, his war in Iran, and Republicans' cuts to health care and nutrition assistance. 

At the same time, this week carried a weight that no amount of good news could have lifted. One year ago this week, Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark were assassinated in their home by a gunman masquerading as a police officer. State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette were also targeted, but miraculously survived. These shocking acts of targeted political violence were intended to instill fear in our communities and in the values we hold dear.

Congresswoman McCollum and Speaker Emerita Hortman. 

Melissa and Mark are survived by Sophie and Colin, their adult children who have been outspoken in advocating for nonviolence and civil discourse. They've encouraged us to honor their parents by finding ways to make this world a better place to live. I am grateful to Sophie and Colin for their reminder that hope and resilience are the enemy of fear.

If you appreciate this newsletter, please share it with your family and friends. Follow my social media accounts: Twitter, Facebook, Threads, BlueSky, Instagram, and YouTube for regular updates on my work. 

MINNESOTA UPDATE

Minnesota’s Academic and Business Leaders are Driving Innovative Solutions to Strengthen our National and Economic Security
On Tuesday, I joined a meeting of the Minnesota National Security Ecosystem – a growing network of public, private, and academic leaders who are supporting our national security while expanding our economy here in Minnesota. This collaboration is innovating, creating great jobs, and reducing our dependence on products sourced from authoritarian nations like China. As the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, my goals include strengthening opportunities for Minnesota’s innovators to provide solutions that support our men and women in uniform in their mission, and allow them to return home safely.

Congresswoman McCollum addresses attendees during a discussion with Rich Carroll of the Creative Defense Foundation.

Celebrating Juneteenth in the East Metro

Happy Juneteenth! Tomorrow marks the 161st anniversary of Juneteenth, a day commemorating June 19, 1865, when enslaved African Americans in Texas were informed of emancipation, two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth is a day of liberation for 250,000 enslaved people. This year, our nation faces the reality of the Supreme Court’s Louisiana v. Callais decision that eviscerated the Voting Rights Act. This decision turned back the clock by launching a full-blown attack on the voting rights and the voices of Black Americans and people of color. The fallout from this decision cannot be overstated — it will diminish the voting power of communities of color as Republican politicians pick and choose which Americans’ voices matter based on the color of their skin. It’s wrong and it’s unpatriotic. An attack on Black voters and voters of color is an attack on the very foundation of our democracy.

While heartbreaking, the Supreme Court’s decision will not break us. Just as generations of marchers, organizers, and activists before us, House Democrats will continue the fight for free and fair elections in the Courts, in Congress, and by your side in our communities. Together, we can ensure every voice is heard and the right to vote is fully protected for every American. As our communities come together on Juneteenth, we unite to face these challenges of the future. Here are some family-friendly Juneteenth events happening in the East Metro:

Rondo Center of Diverse Expressions 6th Annual Juneteenth Celebration

Friday, June 19th, 2026 from 12–5PM at the Rondo Center of Diverse Expression, 315 North Fisk Street, Saint Paul, MN 55104. Click here for more info.

The Anika Foundation's 5th Annual Juneteenth Celebration at the State Capitol

Friday, June 19th, 2026 from 12–6PM at the Minnesota State Capitol. Click here for more info.

Third Annual Vadnais Heights Freedom Day Festival

Saturday, June 20th, 2026 from 4–8PM at Kohler Meadows Park, 365 County Rd F E, Vadnais Heights, MN 55127. Click here for more info.

Congresswoman McCollum celebrates Juneteenth in Saint Paul's historic Rondo neighborhood in 2025. From left to right: Jonathan Palmer, Keith Baker, Congresswoman McCollum, and Debbie Montgomery.

WASHINGTON, D.C. UPDATE

President Trump Makes a “Lousy Deal” With Iran
President Trump’s reckless decision to take the United States to war with Iran without congressional authorization has been a disastrous failure. Not only has the president’s war of choice utterly failed to deliver on his own shifting military goals, but it has also cost the American people directly by increasing prices for necessities like groceries, housing, health care, utilities, gasoline, and more. Now, President Trump is attempting to negotiate with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which was not closed prior to the start of the war. The war has left the U.S. in a precarious geopolitical position, and it has made the world a more dangerous place. Even Trump’s fellow Republicans, including Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy, are calling his agreement a “lousy deal.” Click here to read my full statement on the latest ceasefire extension.

Congressional Delegation Visits Iceland & Greenland to Discuss how to Strengthen Transatlantic NATO Security Partnership 
Last weekend, I joined my colleagues on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense on a Congressional delegation to Iceland and Greenland. This was an opportunity to review U.S. and NATO defense posture in the Arctic. We also discussed with senior Icelandic parliamentarians how the U.S. can be a more reliable security partner with our Nordic allies as Vladimir Putin continues to threaten the security of Europe. It is important that our friends in NATO understand that support in Congress for the transatlantic relationship remains strong, and that we believe in a partnership between the U.S. and Greenland that respects the right of the people of Greenland to choose their own future.

From left to right: Rep. Shreve (R-IN), Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-TX), Rep. Ed Case (D-HI), Rep. Calvert (R-CA), Rep. Steve Womack (R-AR), Rep. McCollum, and base commander Col. Lee.

NEWS YOU CAN USE

Twin Cities to Host 2026 Special Olympics USA Games This Week
Starting on Saturday, June 20, the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games will take place at the University of Minnesota and Huntington Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. The Games will bring together approximately 3,000 athletes from across the United States to compete, inspire, and showcase the power of inclusion through sport. This week-long event will feature 16 sports, including both traditional and unified competitions, where athletes with and without intellectual disabilities compete side by side.

You can support the Games by joining the official volunteer program, with opportunities ranging from athlete support and event operations to guest services, logistics, medical services, and venue management. Volunteers play a vital role in creating an inclusive and memorable experience for athletes, families, and fans. To learn more, volunteer, or follow the action, visit the official 2026 Special Olympics USA Games website.

Celebrate Pride in Saint Paul this Weekend

Looking for a fun way to celebrate Pride with the whole family? Take a look at the events below, happening this weekend:

Twin Cities Pride for Family Fun Day

Sunday, June 21 from 11AM–2PM at Como Park East Pavilions Picnic Area in Saint Paul. This free, family-friendly event celebrates LGBTQ+ families and welcomes friends, allies, and community members of all ages. Enjoy a free community meal, hands-on crafts, games and activities for kids, and more. Bring the family and enjoy an afternoon of community celebration! More info here.

Aliveness Project Happy Hour Bingo at the Black Hart of Saint Paul

Friday, June 19 from 6–8 PM at the Black Hart of Saint Paul. Pick up your game packet by 6PM and enjoy a fun, Pride‑filled start to the weekend, with all proceeds benefiting this vital local nonprofit. More information here.

GLOW: A Pride Dance Party at the Urban Growler

Friday, June 19, from 7–11PM, an evening dedicated to celebrating Pride through music, community, and inclusivity. This free event will feature DJs, dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere for all attendees. More information here.

Spotlight Science: SciPride at the Bell Museum

Saturday, June 20, from 10 AM–2 PM at the Bell Museum in Saint Paul. Explore hands‑on activities focused on the work of LGBTQ+ scientists and learn about current LGBTQ+ healthcare research. This public program is open to all. Admission is included with regular museum ticket. More information here.

Twin Cities Jazz Festival This Weekend in Mears Park
The Twin Cities Jazz Festival will take place on Friday & Saturday, June 19th–20th in Saint Paul’s Lowertown. This free event transforms Mears Park and nearby venues into an open-air stage filled with live jazz performances, from local favorites to nationally-recognized artists. Bring your friends, grab a spot in the park, and enjoy two days of incredible music, free and open to the public. More info here.

Stay Safe on Minnesota Waters this Summer

With Minnesota’s warm summer days ahead, stay safe on the water by checking the weather, wearing a life jacket, and following all boating and water safety guidelines! Click here for more information or visit the Minnesota DNR website.

I-94 Closure and Continuing Long-term Highway Closure on Hwy 280

Westbound I-94 will be closed between I-694/I-494 and I-35E as a part of the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s bridge rebuild project. The closure will begin on Friday, June 26 at 10PM and end on Monday June 29 at 5AM. For detours and more info on the project visit here. Make sure to plan ahead and give yourself extra time to reach your destination and find parking — even if you're not getting on the highway! 

Highway 280 from I-94 to Hwy 36/I-35W is closed through late August for construction and maintenance work. Drivers should plan for detours and allow extra travel time, especially during peak hours, as traffic will be rerouted to nearby roads. For more information, visit MNDOT. 

Be a “Smart Traveler” if You Are Going Abroad

The State Department strongly recommends that people sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive updates from the U.S. embassy on security threats, natural disasters, or civil unrest. Also, check your destination’s entry requirements, including passport validation date and visa requirements. Many countries require your passport to be valid for 6 months beyond your travel dates. Remember: Domestic travelers need a REAL ID-compliant document to enter screening checkpoints. More info here.

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

If you are impacted by the actions of the Trump Administration or Republicans’ policies, including cuts to health care and food assistance, I want to hear about it. Please contact my office directly at (651) 224-9191.

Your voice matters and empowers my vote in Congress.
I encourage you to share your stories with me.

Thank You
As always, please stay in touch: voice your policy opinion, ask for help with a federal agency, or find all of my recent statements at mccollum.house.gov.

Sincerely,

Betty McCollum
Member of Congress