JULY 10, 2026

Dear Fourth District Constituent,

This week marks one year since President Trump and Republicans passed their One Big Beautiful Bill. In just twelve months, it's become a Big Ugly Law.

The results speak for themselves. Over 8 million Americans have lost their health care coverage, and tens of millions more have watched their premiums skyrocket. I've heard from families across the Fourth District that their health care policies barely cover anything. Republicans in Washington have created a health care crisis, and it's going to get worse with each passing month as Minnesota families pay more money for less coverage — or lose their health care entirely. 

Cuts to nutrition assistance in the Big Ugly Law have also led to 4 million Americans losing SNAP, which is critical for children, families, seniors, and vulnerable adults. For families who are struggling, Trump is doing nothing to reduce the cost of living. The President has started a war in Iran, imposed tariffs that increase the costs of everyday goods, and cut taxes for millionaires and billionaires. At the same time, he’s been lining his pockets with billions of dollars from shady crypto schemes. The chaos, corruption, and cruelty must stop. I'm fighting for real solutions to bring down the cost of living and end the corruption that is making life more expensive for you and your family.

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

June Jobs Report Shows Steep Decline in American Job Growth
After a few months of steady rebounds, the June jobs report showed a sharp decline in new job creation. Following the destruction of thousands of jobs in the first months of Trump's second term — driven by his disastrous tariffs and economic policy — the American economy had finally begun to recover. This report is a major step backward. To make matters worse, the May and April jobs reports were revised downward, showing the economy added 74,000 fewer jobs than previously reported. Americans are struggling to find work and pay for groceries, gasoline, utilities, housing, childcare, and insurance. Meanwhile, President Trump keeps getting richer off of shady crypto schemes and stock market trades.

While the economy is headed in the wrong direction nationally, Minnesota is hanging in there with 0.2% private sector growth. The rest of the nation saw just 0.1% private sector job growth. Minnesota workers and employers have been resilient. 

President Trump Attacks Kindergarten Girls for Wearing Hijabs at Graduation

In Minnesota, we protect our children, educate them, and give them opportunities to succeed. President Trump doesn't share our values — he cruelly attacked a group of Saint Paul kindergarteners at their graduation. Why? Because they're Somali Americans. His actions are weak and pathetic. Somali Americans are valued members of our community and around our state. Minnesotans will not be divided by Trump's racist attacks.

Supporting EPA Biologists as They Defend Their First Amendment Rights

I stand with Alex Cole and Stephanie Eytcheson, two Duluth-based EPA biologists who were fired last year for signing onto a letter criticizing President Trump and Administrator Zeldin's policies that run contrary to the EPA's mission. Now, they are suing the Trump Administration for firing them in violation of their constitutional right to free speech. The First Amendment is stronger than this administration’s thin skin, and both employees should be reinstated to continue their work protecting our air, water, and environment from polluters and bad actors. 

WASHINGTON, D.C. UPDATE

Trump Attacks American Allies at NATO Summit in Turkey

This week, President Trump attended the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, where he once again disparaged our allies for not joining his unlawful war with Iran. President Trump also appeared to imply that his tenuous ceasefire with Iran was on the verge of collapse. Make no mistake, the President is solely responsible for the disastrous geopolitical and economic consequences of his war of choice. The American people do not want a resumption of conflict with Iran, and the administration must do everything possible to ensure that the negotiation process toward long-term peace remains on track. I was also very disappointed to see President Trump use the NATO summit as an opportunity to attack our ally Denmark, and once again bring up the specter of U.S. control of Greenland. As I have said many times, decisions on the future of Greenland are up to the people of Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark. President Trump must cease his outrageous comments and end his fixation on Greenland once and for all. One positive development from the summit was an agreement for Ukraine to license the U.S. Patriot air defense system. Ukrainian cities and civilians continue to be under constant attack from Russian ballistic missile strikes. This agreement would allow Ukraine to more quickly produce the air defense systems they need to defend their nation.

NATO heads of state and foreign ministers pose for a photo at the NATO Summit in Ankara, Turkey.

NEWS YOU CAN USE

Submission Deadline Days Away: 2026 Minnesota Comprehensive Aging Survey
If you're 60 years of age or older, you're now invited to participate in the Minnesota Department of Human Services' statewide Comprehensive Aging Survey. Completing this survey will help the department to better understand the needs, experiences, and important issues for adults age 60 and above. The deadline to fill out a survey is Wednesday, July 15th, 2026. Visit here to learn more.

July is Disability Pride Month
The Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law on July 26, 1990. Although Disability Pride has long been celebrated each July within the disability community, I'm leading a bipartisan resolution to formally recognize this month at the federal level. Establishing Disability Pride Month will help raise awareness of the ongoing work needed to advance disability rights, improve visibility, and expand accessibility. This resolution also honors a vibrant community that contributes profoundly to our nation’s diversity. On Thursday, July 16, you are invited to join the disability community at the Minnesota State Capitol to celebrate Disability Pride, culture, and community. More information here.

Summer Meal Programs Available for Children and Families

During the summer break, students and families facing food insecurity can utilize the Summer Food Service Program to help fill nutrition gaps. Sites are available to all children and teens age 18 and under, and no registration is required, making it easy for families to access nutritious meals and snacks throughout the summer. 

• Download the Free Meals for Kids app provided by Hunger Impact Partners to your phone or device. 
• Call the 211 Hotline. From a cell phone – Twin Cities Metro Area: 651-291-0211; Greater Minnesota: 1-800-543-7709; TTY: 651-291-8440.
• Call the Minnesota Food HelpLine at 1-888-711-1151, available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Central Time.
• Text the USDA texting service: Text Summer Meals to 914-342-7744. Spanish speakers can text Verano to 914-342-7744.

Cooling Centers Available Across East Metro Amid Summer Heat Surge

Hot, humid weather is expected across the Twin Cities this weekend and into early next week, with temperatures in the 90s and heat indexes that may approach or exceed 100°F in some areas. Stay safe by drinking plenty of water, limiting outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, wearing lightweight clothing, and spending time in air-conditioned spaces when possible. Check on older adults, young children, neighbors, and pets, who are especially vulnerable to heat-related illness. Click here for a list of cooling centers in Ramsey County and click here for a list of cooling centers in Washington County. Visit the CDC website and enter your zip code to get the HeatRisk for this week and actions you can take to keep you and your family safe.

Due on Wednesday, July 15: Fall Internship Applications
An internship in my office provides young people with valuable experience as they prepare for their professional careers. Interns have the opportunity to work with and assist all members of the staff, including legislative, administrative, outreach, and communications duties. Internships are available in both the Washington D.C. and Saint Paul offices.

Applicants should be highly motivated and enthusiastic, as there are far more applicants than available positions. Minnesota ties are strongly preferred and should be noted in the first paragraph of your cover letter. Interns are paid a stipend. In addition, my office is happy to work with your college or university to arrange for course credit. Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Applicants should send a cover letter, resume, and available hours. Additionally, please indicate any Minnesota ties. Students interested in a Washington, D.C. internship should email MN04admin@mail.house.gov. For Saint Paul internships, please email MN04DOScheduler@mail.house.gov. The deadline to apply for the Fall 2026 Internship is July 15, 2026.

Planning to Visit Washington, D.C.? Stop by my Office.

If you're planning a trip out to our Nation's Capital, remember you can request tours through my office. My staff can lead you on a tour of the U.S. Capitol, you can sign up for a self-guided tour of the Library of Congress, and you can request a lecture in the Supreme Court Chamber. Read more about tours here. Unfortunately, Congressional offices have been informed that public White House tours are again unavailable. At this time there is no further information available about when the White House will reopen to the public. 

Continuing Long-Term Highway Closure on Hwy 280

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.

AMERICA 250: AN INDEPENDENCE DAY TO REMEMBER 

Celebrations for America 250 Still Continue All Summer Long
Hit the road with MN250 Road Trips now through October 17 and explore Minnesota through themed scavenger‑hunt‑style routes that connect historic sites, scenic landscapes, and hidden stories. Whether traveling by car, bike, transit, or from home, participants can complete stops to earn points and a limited‑edition MN250 pin. It’s a fun and flexible way to celebrate American history all summer long. Click here for more information.

Our nation is the only republic in the world that was founded on the idea that all of us are created equal and all people are capable of self-governing. But with self-governance comes a responsibility for all of us to keep our democracy strong. As I reflect on the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding, I'm humbled to be elected by my fellow citizens to uphold the values of freedom, justice, and equality we hold dear.

Congresswoman McCollum greets parade-goers at the 79th annual Saint Anthony Park Fourth of July Parade. 

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