Congressman Cleo Fields

Our TSA officers, Coast Guard service members, and FEMA responders show up every single day to keep Americans safe — the least we can do is make sure they get paid. That's why yesterday I signed a discharge petition to force a vote on funding for these critical DHS agencies. These aren't abstract budget numbers. These are real people doing critical, life-saving work for our communities — and they shouldn't have to wonder whether their next paycheck is coming. Restoring their funding is exactly what I was sent here to do, and I'm not letting up until we get it done. #LA06

The President just told Americans to accept higher gas prices "for a little while... until the war ends." A war he started with no exit strategy, no congressional authorization, and no plan.   Working families don't have a "little while”,  they're paying bills today. This is unacceptable.

This morning, the United States, in coordination with Israel, launched strikes against Iran — a significant military action with serious consequences for our national security. While I understand the gravity of the threat, the process here cannot be ignored. The War Powers Act exists for a reason: to ensure that no single person can commit this nation to war without accountability to the American people. When a president bypasses our constitutional process, he isn't just cutting corners — he is undermining the framework that governs this country. This choice has consequences, and Congress must respond accordingly. For my full press release, visit fields.house.gov/media.

Today's ruling by the Supreme Court confirms what many of us have maintained from the very beginning: the President of the United States cannot unilaterally impose taxes on the American people without congressional authorization. We said it then, and the highest court in the land is saying it now.   I call on the administration to comply fully with this ruling, to stop looking for workarounds that would simply recreate what the Court has struck down, and to work with Congress on a legitimate path forward. For my full statement, visit my website: fields.house.gov

Today, I join the nation in mourning the passing of Dr. Norman C. Francis. For generations of Louisianans, and for people across this country, he represented what steady, faithful leadership in education truly looks like.   During his nearly five decades leading Xavier University of Louisiana, Dr. Francis helped transform the institution into a national model of academic excellence and opportunity, especially for students pursuing careers in medicine, science, and public service. His leadership opened doors for countless young people and strengthened the legacy of historically black colleges and universities across our nation.   What made Dr. Francis so remarkable was not only his accomplishments, but his quiet strength, humility, and his belief in the power of education to change lives. Louisiana has lost a historic force for education and opportunity, but the impact of Dr. Francis’ life and work will continue to be felt for generations to come.   Dr. Francis’ lifetime of leadership will continue to shape Xavier University, our state, and the future of higher education. My thoughts and prayers are with the Francis family and everyone whose lives were touched by Dr. Francis.

This morning, we lost a giant in the fight for civil rights, justice, and equality. More than that, we lost a man of deep faith and conviction whose life helped bend the arc of this nation toward justice. Reverend Jesse Jackson stood with the forgotten, spoke for those pushed to the margins, and challenged America, time and time again, to live up to its highest ideals. As a young person, I had the honor of supporting Reverend Jackson’s historic presidential campaign and witnessed firsthand the faith, courage, and moral clarity that defined his leadership. Over the years, I came to know not only the power of his public voice, but the strength of his personal example. His influence helped shape my own commitment to service and the ongoing work of a more just nation. I am deeply grateful for his legacy that is not only written in history books, but living on in the people he shaped and the work that we are all blessed to continue because he chose to serve. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Jackson family, and all those who are grieving this profound loss today. The greatest way we can honor Reverend Jackson is by carrying forward his historic impact through the continued work for justice and equality for all.

This morning, Border Czar Tom Homan announced the withdrawal of 700 ICE agents from Minnesota. This decision is a direct consequence of the Department of Homeland Security’s unconstitutional overreach against American citizens and affirms my vote against yesterday’s proposed DHS budget. While this is a clear step in the right direction, the work is far from over. My stance remains steadfast: Kristi Noem needs to go. Her lack of qualification has done nothing but incite chaos and put communities across our nation at risk, and a full withdrawal of all ICE agents is necessary to begin restoring accountability and public trust.

Yesterday morning, ICE agents in Minneapolis used excessive force against an American citizen, Mr. Alex Pretti, resulting in his death. Afterwards, Secretary Kristi Noem publicly defended the actions of the agents, characterizing the shooting as justified. I strongly disagree with Secretary Noem’s statements. Federal agents are not hired to violate the constitutional rights of American citizens, and no public official should attempt to normalize or excuse such actions before a full and transparent investigation is complete. For these reasons, I will be calling for the following: 1. A full joint federal and state investigation, 2. President Trump to put an immediate pause on ICE operations in Minnesota, 3. Secretary Kristi Noem’s immediate resignation.

Congressmen @RepFields and I are joined by Barbara Arnwine (@barbs73) of @TJC_DC to break down the impact of recent #SCOTUS decisions on voting rights, civil rights & our democracy. youtu.be/dOkHPwofYJg

Do students in La need a better understanding of how the federal government works? @RepFields think so, he's visiting schools as part of his Congress to the Classroom program. #TWILP I also ask about his congressional seat being challenged @ SCOTUS. @LAFirstNews

And even today, the dream still matters. We’re grateful for the path Dr. King paved and the example he set for generations to come. ✨#MLKDay

Inflation is up, job creation is down and the Republican economy is a complete disaster.

Today, I voted without hesitation in support of extending Affordable Care Act subsidies.   As I’ve said before, the people of Louisiana should not have to choose between putting food on the table, keeping the lights on, and being able to go to the doctor.   When Americans are forced to ration and stockpile life-saving medicine, Congress has a moral obligation to act—and to act now!   I want to make it clear that my vote reflects a broader principle: put people ahead of politics and ensure that government works for those it serves.

I am deeply disturbed by reports that an American citizen was shot during an operation involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Minneapolis today. Any use of deadly force by federal law enforcement demands immediate, transparent, and independent review. Federal officers are entrusted with immense authority, and that authority comes with an equally immense responsibility to protect life and uphold the Constitution. My thoughts and prayers are with the woman who was killed, her loved ones, and the community affected by this tragic incident. I will continue to monitor this situation closely as more information becomes available.