Women Lawmakers Rally Against GOP Policies in Congress

LEESBURG, Va. — In a show of solidarity amidst increasing political tension, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) hosted a press conference today to highlight the contributions of freshman women in the 119th Congress during the House Democratic Issues Conference, coinciding with Women’s History Month.

The press conference featured a lineup of new Congresswomen, including Reps. Nellie Pou (NJ-9), Maxine Dexter (OR-3), Sarah McBride (DE-AL), Laura Friedman (CA-30), Sarah Elfreth (MD-3), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Julie Johnson (TX-32), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-3), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), and April McClain Delaney (MD-6). They united in their commitment to combat what they termed a detrimental Republican agenda.

“This Women’s History Month comes amid some of the harshest attacks on women and girls that we’ve ever seen in Congress,” Clark stated, noting the Republicans’ prioritization of tax breaks for billionaires over essential social programs. “The GOP continues their crusade against reproductive freedom, evicting survivors of domestic violence, cutting food assistance, and defunding critical maternal research.”

Clark emphasized the significant rise in the number of women in the House, stating, “When I first came to Congress, there were 63 Democratic women; now, we are a record-breaking 96.” She expressed pride in her colleagues, who she described as “hard-fighting, unrelenting leaders.”

Focusing on the impact of Republican policies on families, Clark introduced her term for young parents navigating economic challenges, dubbing them the “panini generation.” She reflected on her own experiences balancing work and caregiving, highlighting the adverse effects of Medicaid cuts on families. “We are looking at an administration and a House GOP that has put their sights on child care, dismantling Head Start when people can’t find or afford it,” she asserted.

Clark further criticized the Republicans for their resistance to protecting vital social programs, stating, “Their plan is to eliminate benefits so they can provide tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans.” She called on her colleagues to collaborate on a budget that defends Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.

One of the Congresswomen, who spoke on conditions of anonymity, described the approach of the current administration as disorganized and harmful. “They are systematically dismantling support systems for people in need,” she said, referencing cuts made within vital housing programs. “How can you take away those who administer essential services?”

Regarding the conduct of House Republicans, Clark expressed frustration at the focus on decorum rather than real issues affecting citizens. “It makes me livid. Let’s get to work for the people of this country. They are dismantling the American Dream, and that should be our central focus.”

As the press conference drew to a close, Clark reinforced the importance of prioritizing health care and public education over partisan politics. “We are not going to let you label veterans’ benefits or women’s health care as government waste,” she asserted. “All people want is a fair shot. They deserve the opportunity to succeed.”

To watch the full press conference, click here.