Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Teresa Leger Fernández Joined Steering & Policy Town Hall with House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, House Democratic Steering & Policy Co-Chair Nanette Barragán, and Congressman Raul Ruiz

Coachella Valley, CA — On Saturday May 3, Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) joined a community town hall hosted by the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee and Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz. The town hall brought together local leaders, constituents, storytellers and committee members for a robust discussion on the most pressing issues facing women and families in California and across the country. 

Chair Leger Fernández joined House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, House Democratic Steering & Policy Co-Chair Nanette Barragán, and Coachella Valley representative Dr. Raul Ruiz for the town hall.

The event served as an opportunity for residents to share their stories and priorities directly with Democratic leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives. Community members shared stories about the challenges they’re experiencing under the Trump administration, including struggles accessing reproductive health care, their fears about Trump and Republican cuts to Medicaid, and Trump’s attacks on the Department of Education. The Members shared how Democrats are fighting back in Congress, the courts, and their communities.

“There are 96 Democratic women in the House of Representatives and it’s our job to stand up for the issues women face. We listen to and speak for women in our own districts, and for women everywhere, including the Coachella Valley, whether you’re represented by Raul Ruiz or Ken Calvert. It was moving to hear some of your stories today,” said Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03). “Women have lots of power, and when we raise our voices and our stories to protect our families and children, world, watch out. Because we will win those battles.”

“This town hall gave our community a powerful seat at the table in Washington,” said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25).“By connecting constituents with House leadership, we’re ensuring the voices of our region are heard and reflected in national policy. I’m proud to bring the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee to our district to listen, learn, and take action.”

“The House Republican budget is an attack on every single American, particularly children, families, seniors and those with disabilities. It is unacceptable, unconscionable and un-American,” said House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08). “House Democrats will continue to lift up the stories of everyday people in every corner of the country and do everything that we can to stop this budget in its tracks, bury it in the ground and make sure it never rises again.”

“This Town Hall was just the beginning of a nationwide effort by the Steering and Policy Committee to meet people where they are and hear firsthand how Donald Trump and House Republicans’ reckless policies are hurting working- and middle-class families,” said Steering and Policy Committee Co-Chair Nanette Barragán. “From threats to affordable health care to cuts targeting veterans and basic rights, the stories we heard in Rancho Mirage reflect the stakes across the country. I’m deeply grateful to the residents who shared their experiences and trusted us with their voices. We’ll carry their stories to Washington as we continue to fight back against these dangerous, out-of-touch policies.”

For the live stream of the event, click here.