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Democratic Women’s Caucus Celebrates Historic Milestone as More Than 100 Democratic Women Are Elected to Congress

Wed, 04 Nov 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) celebrated the more than 100 Democratic women elected to serve in the 120th Congress. Their positions in the House of Representatives will increase DWC membership next Congress to a historic high. The 120th Congress will mark the first time in history that the Democratic Women’s Caucus surpasses 100 members in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing an increase of more than 60% since 2016. DWC Chairwoman Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) released the following statement:

“Women made history because we showed up to vote, and then voted in more than 100 Democratic women to serve in the House. The millions of women who showed up at the polls voted for a better future for all women and girls. Their rights to healthcare, childcare, and even their right to vote was on the line. Women have borne the brunt of the Trump administration’s recklessness and Republicans’ extremist agenda, and on Tuesday they made it clear they have had enough.

Instead of extremism, America decided to send a historic 100+ Democratic women to fight for them in Congress. Sick and tired of Trump’s corrupt political machine, Americans entrusted Democratic women from every corner of the country to go to Washington and fight for them.

Over the past ten years, DWC members have worked tirelessly to counter Republican attacks and create a better future for all women and girls. Republicans tried to silence women across the country and take our rights, but now we have a coalition in Congress that is bigger and stronger than ever. This milestone was achieved because of dedicated work from organizations like Elect Democratic Women, EMILY's List, statewide groups dedicated to electing women, and so many more organizations, volunteers, community organizers, and partners who understand the importance of women’s leadership in elected office. Our better future agenda is our next priority as we begin the 120th Congressional session in January.” said DWC Chairwoman Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03).

Over the past ten years, DWC members have fought to make sure all women and girls are free from violence and have the healthcare access, reproductive freedom, and economic opportunities they deserve. In this Congress alone, DWC members introduced over 200 bills aimed at protecting the economic freedom, safety, and healthcare of women and submitted over half of the filed amendments to counter Trump and Republicans’ harmful policies in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

DWC has also successfully brought Epstein survivors to the State of the Union and uplifted their stories, restored the Women’s Health Initiative at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and taken on sexual misconduct in Congress and across America.

Democratic Women’s Caucus Chairwoman Releases Statement Bashing GOP Support for Abortion Bans

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) Chairwoman Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) released the following statement slamming Republican support for abortion bans and warning of the devastating harm these bans have on women’s health and safety.

“Tierra Walker, a 37-year-old Texan who was diagnosed with preeclampsia, died after doctors were too afraid to treat her, fearing they would face life in prison for providing abortion care. Taysha Wilkinson-Sobieski, a mother from Indiana, died after not being able to seek care for an ectopic pregnancy.

Both of these women should be alive today. Their families are left grieving, and they are far from alone: they are just two of the many whose lives have been lost to sweeping abortion bans. Tierra and Taysha were victims of Republicans’ relentless attack on health care that continues to endanger women nationwide.

As states rush to enact sweeping abortion bans, pregnancy is becoming more dangerous. Maternal mortality rates in states like Texas are rising by more than 50%, and women in states with abortion bans are twice as likely to die from pregnancy-related causes. Abortion bans also disproportionately impact women of color, who are significantly more likely to die during pregnancy compared to those who live in states where abortion care is legal and accessible.

The gut-wrenching stories of preventable loss and the data are clear: abortion bans kill women. Although Republicans in Congress see this as merely a policy difference, the DWC knows it is not. To the children who have lost their mothers, the husbands who have lost their wives, and the mothers who have lost their daughters, this is a matter of life and death.

Our members know personally what it is like to fear for your life during pregnancy and will always fight to protect and expand reproductive healthcare. A woman’s healthcare should be decided at the doctor’s office, not in the halls of Congress. The DWC is committed to enacting policies that protect every woman’s access to quality, affordable healthcare and the freedom to make her own reproductive choices.”

Democratic Women’s Caucus Releases Statement Memorializing Labor and Civil Rights Leader Dolores Huerta

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) Chairwoman Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) released the following statement in memory of labor activist and civil rights leader Dolores Huerta, who passed away today at the age of 96. Her lifelong activism and commitment inspired presidents, world leaders, and generations of women. DWC is with her and her family today as they navigate this tragic loss and work to continue her transformative legacy.

“At a time when women were often considered just support staff, Dolores Huerta led. She organized, strategized, and negotiated some of the biggest accomplishments of the United Farm Workers. She inspired many members of the DWC. She was not only a hero for her work, but also for her joy. She believed in the rights of workers, the dignity of immigrants, and the power of organizing to make change.

When she successfully advocated for the Agricultural Labor Relations Act and peacefully organized some of our country’s most prominent protests, she showed that ‘the people have the power.’ Even when she faced violence herself, Dolores Huerta never quit. Her enduring legacy will carry on in DWC members who looked up to her and were taught by her to lead.

Today, we are mourning the loss of one of America’s greatest organizers and activists. Her footsteps will echo in every march, her spirit will live in every movement, and her words will carry us forward.”

ICYMI: DWC Chairwoman Leger Fernández and DWC Dean Kaptur Host Roundtable in Toledo with Epstein Survivors

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Watch full roundtable here.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) and DWC Dean Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) hosted Wendy Pesante, Marina Lacerda and Jena-Lisa Jones, survivors of Jeffrey Epstein, along with local survivors of sex trafficking Angela Navarro and Marie Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of the Human Trafficking and Social Justice Institute at the University of Toledo Dr. Celia Williamson, and former Ohio State Senator Teresa Fedor in Toledo for a discussion on holding Les Wexner accountable and elevating survivor voices.

Throughout the conversation, Chairwoman Leger Fernández and Kaptur shed light on the close ties and business dealings between Les Wexner, the richest man in Ohio, and Jeffrey Epstein. Together, the members reignited the call to hold Wexner accountable for his part in Epstein’s crimes. Rather than enabling the power of an Epstein co-conspirator, DWC Dean Kaptur and Chairwoman Leger Fernández were determined to reclaim Ohio for survivors by bringing together survivors, experts on human trafficking and Wexner’s culpability, and Ohio-based advocates to elevate survivor voices and demand justice.

DWC Chairwoman Leger Fernández on the outstanding courage of Epstein survivors and how their advocacy has changed the fight against corruption:

“I say it over again because it just struck me that you were told that he [Jeffery Epstein] had the banks, he had the government, and you basically had nothing. That you were powerless.

What you have shown America is that you are not powerless and that you refuse to be silenced. Your courage is indeed courageous because you’ve been willing to stand up against corruption even though it has meant you have had death threats, been attacked, and you fear for your lives, future, and children,” said DWC Chairwoman Leger Fernández.

DWC Chairwoman Leger Fernández and DWC Dean Kaptur on Wexner’s influence in Ohio and how he enabled Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes:

“Ohio is really important. It was the actual bank for Jeffrey Epstein. I thought, ‘Why aren’t there major stories, why haven’t major stories been done here, and what is going on in our state?’ It was nagging me about why there aren't any investigations about Ohio and New Albany, Ohio,” said DWC Dean Marcy Kaptur.

“Ohio had something different. You had the money. You had the financing. Without that money and that financing, we would not have had Jeffrey Epstein, and it is important to come back here and talk about that,” said DWC Chair Leger Fernández.

DWC Chairwoman Leger Fernández on the urgent need for Republicans to sign the discharge petition for the Epstein Files Transparency Act II and release the files:

“Now we’ve had to bring a second petition to bring that [the release of the Epstein files] vote. You [Rep. Kaptur] signed that petition. Have any Republican members of Congress from Ohio signed that petition? Not a single one, even though we’ve had other Republicans sign it,” said Chairwoman Leger Fernández.

“The second law [the Epstein Files Transparency Act II] that we’re talking about would enable the survivors to bring a civil case to demand that the Department of Justice release the files when you’ve been harmed… If the United States Department of Justice will not bring the criminal cases, will not investigate because the President’s name has already been mentioned 38,000 times in what’s been released, let the Attorney General in New Mexico bring the case. Let the Attorney General of Ohio bring the case of what happened in Ohio,” said DWC Chairwoman Leger Fernández.

Epstein survivor Wendy Pesante on how communities, like Toledo, Ohio, have been devastated by trafficking and sexual abuse and the impact funding for survivors can have:

“I’ve been responsible for thousands and thousands of Ohio residents going through treatment and that’s what’s important to me. They see me and they say ‘oh that’s an Epstein survivor’, they don’t know that I am very aware of the trauma that our community goes through because that was my job… I encourage people, if you don’t think these things are going on in our community, to really talk to people because it is.” said Wendy Pesante.

Epstein survivor Marina Lacerda on how the courage of survivors to come forward and share their stories has been monumental in bringing justice against powerful perpetrators:

“When we come here it is to empower women to break their silence. We would like, we want to know if there are any survivors of Jeffrey Epstein or Les Wexner in this state. We want to be connected… If we find one person that has this abuse by an enabler that is from here, we can take down a lot of powerful people. We need for this Jane Doe to be strong, to be fierce, and come out,” said Marina Lacerda.

Epstein survivor Jena-Lisa Jones on how Les Wexner used his wealth to bankroll Epstein’s criminal network:

“I want to bring a big light to this that Les Wexner is a billionaire here in Ohio. This is his state. We need to be looking into the fact that he had great ties with Jeffrey Epstein. He allowed Jeffrey Epstein to control his financials and gave him [Jeffrey Epstein] the financial power to do this abuse. I want to remind people that not only is Les Wexner this billionaire who is in your guy’s state right now and has so much powerful influence here, he gave Jeffrey Epstein his mansion in New York to be able to abuse girls,” said Jena-Lisa Jones.

DWC Chairwoman Leger Fernández and DWC Dean Kaptur on how the fight to release the Epstein files will continue to change a culture that has allowed violence against women to continue:

“We need America to know that this culture of violence against women, this culture of corruption where the rich and powerful control what gets looked at needs to be addressed and that we are going to shine a light on that darkness today. We’re going to hear directly from you all on what you’re doing, what that felt like, and why it’s important to be here today,” said DWC Chair Leger Fernández.

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99 Democratic Lawmakers Slam Department of Education for Failure to Enforce Title IX and Protect Student Survivors

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) member Maxine Dexter (OR-03), DWC member Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), DWC Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) and Rep. Mark Takano (CA-39) led a letter to the Office of the Inspector General at the Department of Education. The letter urges the Acting Inspector General to open an investigation into the Department’s gutting of the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and Title IX rollbacks and its impact on the Department’s ability to enforce Title IX protections for student survivors of sexual assault and harassment. 99 House Democrats joined the effort.

The call for the investigation comes after Jane Doe’s story from Cornell University and Kendall Francis’ story from Louisiana State University (LSU) sparked a national outcry about the high rate of sexual violence on college campuses. Additionally the survivors’ stories have renewed scrutiny of how colleges and universities respond, and how the Department of Education enforces Title IX protections for survivors.

One in four undergraduate women experience sexual assault or rape while in college. Sexual violence against women on college campuses is a public health crisis, yet significant barriers remain that block accountability and protections for students. Changes in staffing, resources, case-processing, and enforcement priorities under the Trump administration have only made that worse and have undermined the Department’s ability to properly investigate complaints and enforce Title IX protections.

As of January 2025, OCR reportedly faced a backlog of nearly 12,000 civil rights cases, while the administration reduced OCR’s workforce by nearly half. The Department has closed zero college sexual harassment or sexual violence cases. The Department also formalized weaker protections and processes for student survivors: narrowing the definition of sexual harassment, reducing school liability, and implementing intimidating investigative and hearing procedures that are retraumatizing to survivors.

Without proper federal enforcement and institutional accountability, Title IX protections become just words on a page. The Department of Education is failing student survivors. Protections for survivors are not partisan and should always be a priority, however the Department’s rollback of vital protections creates additional barriers for survivors and is leaving them to fend for themselves in their most vulnerable moments.

In their letter, the members explained how the Department’s changes will leave student survivors vulnerable and why an investigation is necessary:

“We urge the Office of Inspector General to immediately open an investigation into the Department’s failure to adequately enforce Title IX protections for survivors of sexual harassment and assault, including whether changes in staffing, resources, case-processing, and enforcement priorities have undermined the Department’s ability to protect students, investigate complaints in a timely manner, and hold institutions accountable.”

The members outlined the Department’s policies that have weakened protections for student survivors:

“At the same time that OCR’s staff and regional capacity were substantially reduced, the Department announced and pursued Title IX enforcement priorities concerning transgender students’ participation in athletics and access to sex-separated facilities, and also dismantling Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. These reprioritizations do nothing to address the backlog of sexual violence cases.”

The letter also explains how reprioritizations and restructuring by the Department have decreased OCR’s capacity to investigate cases of sexual violence on campus:

“This restructuring threatens to further delay investigations, erode OCR’s institutional expertise, and create additional barriers for survivors seeking accountability. These reprioritizations, staff reductions, and the interagency agreement raise significant questions about whether OCR has sufficient capacity to investigate Title IX complaints, communicate with complainants, and fulfill its civil rights enforcement responsibilities in a timely and effective manner.”

The members also outlined what they are urging the Inspector General to investigate:

Examining whether the Department has fulfilled its legal and administrative responsibilities to investigate and resolve Title IX complaints in a timely and effective manner.
The causes and consequences of the absence of resolution agreements involving college sexual harassment and assault complaints since January 2025.
Whether reductions in OCR staffing, the closure of regional offices, or changes in enforcement priorities have contributed to delays, backlogs, or failures to resolve these complaints.
Examining whether OCR has sufficient staffing, resources, policies, and procedures to effectively enforce Title IX and protect students from sex discrimination, including sexual harassment and violence.
Identifying how survivors have been harmed by these changes.

Lastly, the members asked the Inspector General to answer the following questions:

How many Title IX sexual harassment and sexual violence complaints are currently pending before OCR, and how long have they been pending?
How have processing times, case closures, investigations, and resolution agreements changed since January 2025?
Have staffing reductions or office closures affected OCR’s ability to investigate complaints or communicate with survivors?
Have Department officials directed, formally or informally, OCR personnel to deprioritize certain categories of Title IX complaints?
What safeguards are currently in place to ensure Title IX complaints involving sexual violence receive timely and appropriate review?
What corrective actions are necessary to ensure the Department is meeting its obligations to protect students under Title IX?

Read the full letter here.

The letter was signed by: Amo, Gabe; Ansari, Yassamin; Balint, Becca; Barragán, Nanette; Beatty, Joyce; Beyer, Donald; Bonamici, Suzanne; Brownley, Julia; Brown, Shontel; Bynum, Janelle; Carter, Troy; Castor, Kathy; Chu, Judy; Clarke, Yvette; Craig, Angie; Crockett, Jasmine; Davids, Sharice; Dean, Madeleine; DeGette, Diana; DeSaulnier, Mark; Dexter, Maxine; Dingell, Debbie; Elfreth, Sarah; Escobar, Veronica; Espaillat, Adriano; Evans, Dwight; Fletcher, Lizzie; Foster, Bill; Foushee, Valerie; Frankel, Lois; Frost, Maxwell; Garamendi, John; Garcia, Sylvia; Goldman, Daniel; Goodlander, Maggie; Grijalva, Adelita; Houlahan, Chrissy; Hoyle, Val; Ivey, Glenn; Jackson, Jonathan; Jayapal, Pramila; Johnson, Julie; Kamlager-Dove, Sydney; Kelly, Robin; Kennedy, Timothy; Khanna, Ro; Landsman, Greg; Latimer, George; Lee, Summer; Leger Fernandez, Teresa; Lynch, Stephen; Magaziner, Seth; Matsui, Doris; McBride, Sarah; McClain Delaney, April; McClellan, Jennifer; McIver, LaMonica; Mejia, Analilia; Menefee, Christian; Meng, Grace; Mfume, Kweisi; Morelle, Joseph; Mullin, Kevin; Nadler, Jerrold; Norton, Eleanor; Omar, Ilhan; Pelosi, Nancy; Pettersen, Brittany; Pingree, Chellie; Quigley, Mike; Ramirez, Delia; Randall, Emily; Raskin, Jamie; Ross, Deborah; Salinas, Andrea; Scanlon, Mary Gay; Schakowsky, Janice; Scholten, Hillary; Sewell, Terri; Simon, Lateefah; Stansbury, Melanie; Stanton, Greg; Stevens, Haley; Strickland, Marilyn; Subramanyam, Suhas; Sykes, Emilia; Takano, Mark; Thompson, Bennie; Thompson, Mike; Titus, Dina; Tlaib, Rashida; Tokuda, Jill; Tonko, Paul; Trahan, Lori; Velázquez, Nydia; Walkinshaw, James; Watson Coleman, Bonnie; Williams, Nikema; Wilson, Frederica.

DWC Member Debbie Dingell Slams United Airlines CEO for Gross Mishandling of Sexual Harassment on Flight

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Tuesday, October 6, 2026, the Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) Senate Liaison and Caregiving Task Force Co-Chair Debbie Dingell (MI-06) led a letter to United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby demanding answers following reports that a 25-year-old woman was forced to return to her seat next to a man who allegedly performed a lewd sexual act while staring at her, despite her repeatedly alerting the flight crew. Twenty-eight members of the Democratic Caucus joined the letter.

Following the flight, United Airlines failed to call law enforcement on the passenger who allegedly sexually harassed the woman, saying it was her responsibility to request a police response. The woman was later offered a $100 credit for a $400 flight as compensation. This is not justice and it is not accountability. The man who was accused of performing lewd sexual acts was never investigated or charged by police as the airline continues to look into the incident.

United Airline’s egregious mishandling of this incident not only brings into question the airline’s protocols for handling sexual misconduct, but raises concerns over if the safety and dignity of future women passengers is protected. The letter demands information on United Airline’s definition of sexual misconduct, how flight crews are required to respond to reports, and what steps the airline will take to strengthen its protocols and training to ensure women feel safe on flights.

In the letter, DWC Senate Liaison and Caregiving Task Force Co-Chair Debbie Dingell explained how the airline failed this woman during and after her flight:

“Afterward, United Airlines merely awarded her an apology and a $100 credit– for a $400 trip. She has since filed a complaint against the airline and with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In follow-up emails, United employees described the lewd sexual act as behavior that caused her concern, rather than an act of sexual misconduct that is unacceptable regardless of who the man’s seatmate is.”

The Members highlighted the injustice in how United Airlines handled this incident and how it threatens the safety and dignity of all women flying:

“This disgusting behavior is not a matter of personal disagreement between him and the woman who reported his behavior. Addressing this kind of behavior is essential to ensuring that women can live with safety and dignity. We call on United Airlines to do better, and to stand with survivors.”

Lastly, the Member concluded by demanding United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby send written responses by October 9, 2026 to the following questions:

“1. How does United Airlines define sexual misconduct? Did this incident meet United’s definition of misconduct? If not, is United willing to review and improve its current definition in coordination with experts in the field of sexual misconduct prevention and response?

2. Is it correct that the flight crew did not report this incident to law enforcement, make accommodations for the woman who reported the behavior, or address the offender directly? If so, why not? Does United have protocols in place to support individuals who report misconduct to the flight crew but do not wish to escalate the issue to law enforcement?

3. What is the protocol for the flight crew on United Airlines and affiliate flights to respond to reports of in-flight sexual misconduct? How can United Airlines improve these protocols in order to enhance passenger safety?

4. How does United Airlines plan to improve training for flight crews to ensure that they respond to future in-flight sexual misconduct reports in a timely, attentive manner that prioritizes the safety and dignity of passengers?

5. How do you plan to make women feel safe on a United Airlines flight going forward?”

Read the full letter here.

The letter was signed by: Barragán, Nanette Diaz; Beatty, Joyce; Brown, Shontel M.; Chu, Judy; Crockett, Jasmine; Fernández, Teresa Leger; Fletcher, Lizzie; Friedman, Laura; Garcia, Sylvia R.; Grijalva, Adelita S.; Johnson, Henry C. "Hank", Jr.; Kaptur, Marcy; Khanna, Ro; Lynch, Stephen F.; McBride, Sarah; Meng, Grace; Norton, Eleanor Holmes; Pocan, Mark; Ramirez, Delia C.; Ross, Deborah K.; Salinas, Andrea; Simon, Lateefah; Stansbury, Melanie; Stevens, Haley M.; Tlaib, Rashida; Trahan, Lori; Williams, Nikema; Wilson, Frederica S.

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Democratic Women’s Caucus & Congressional Equality Caucus Denounce Trump’s Cruel Title IX Rule

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC — Following the Department of Education’s announcement of a final rule that both formally rescinds the Biden-era Title IX rule—which strengthened protections for survivors of sexual violence and harassment, as well as clarified protections for pregnant, parenting, and LGBTQI+ students—and recodifies the Trump-era 2020 rule which significantly weakened protections against sexual harassment, the Chairs of the Democratic Women’s Caucus and Congressional Equality Caucus released the following statements:

“Education Secretary Linda McMahon’s reinstatement of Trump’s reckless 2020 Title IX policy will severely weaken protections against the sexual assault and harassment, and discrimination of all students. The Trump administration’s claim that this will address the pervasive culture of sexual assault in schools is a dangerous lie. Make no mistake, it will leave our most vulnerable students who face harassment and bullying further at risk,” said Chair of the Democratic Women’s Caucus Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03). “This policy will create additional barriers and delays for survivors navigating the Title IX process. We have already called out the administration for resolving ZERO sexual misconduct cases. The administration is choosing to use the safety of girls as a ploy to perpetuate hate against LGBTQI+ students. The Democratic Women’s Caucus will continue the fight to strengthen and expand Title IX protections until all girls are able to attend school free from the fear of violence and discrimination. If Republicans truly want to prioritize the safety of women and girls in school, they would protect survivors. This Administration has done everything it can to minimize the voices and needs of survivors of sexual assault."

“Trump’s Department of Education has obsessively weaponized Title IX to attack trans people under the false pretense of protecting girls and women, but this rule is further proof that that pretense has always been a lie,” said Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus and Senior Member of the Committee on Education and the Workforce Mark Takano (CA-39). “A Senate report found that, under Trump and Secretary McMahon, the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights didn’t reach a resolution agreement for a single sexual harassment or violence case in 2025, proving how this Administration has failed to protect students. Now, they’ve recodified a rule that weakens protections for students, especially protections against sexual harassment and violence. All students, including LGBTQI+ students, deserve to go to school free of discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment and violence, but this rule is just the latest example of how Trump and McMahon don’t care about keeping students safe.”

Democratic Women’s Caucus Leaders Stand with Jane Doe in Cornell Case; Slam Trump & Republicans for Gutting Title IX Protections

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) and Vice Chairs Emilia Sykes (OH-13) and Hillary Scholten (MI-03) released the following statement standing in solidarity with Jane Doe, who was allegedly gang-raped while enrolled at Cornell University and whose case has garnered significant media attention due to the failure of law enforcement and the university to protect her. The Members also call on the Trump administration to strengthen and expand Title IX protections:

“What happened on the Cornell University campus is disgusting and vile: seven men are accused of pressuring a 20-year-old woman to snort ketamine before raping her for seven hours and inviting their fraternity brothers to join. There was no formal criminal investigation and only two of the men were expelled. The reporting shows that the police did not believe the young woman and failed to conduct an adequate investigation following her reporting of the alleged rape. Although we are glad to see the Tompkins County District Attorney has reopened the case after failing to investigate in 2024, we recognize that more must be done to fix the system that failed this college student.

The details of this case are hard to digest, but cannot be ignored. We have been sounding the alarm on the threat to women’s safety in every aspect of life, from the workplace to college campuses. There is a pervasive culture that condones sexual misconduct, violence and assault on college campuses, on the Hill, in the military and across our country. Her story should be a wake-up call Republicans cannot ignore: we need stronger protections and systems for survivors, and we need to act now. We have an obligation to not only hold perpetrators accountable, but to make sure women and girls always have the resources they need to seek justice.

The first step is to strengthen and expand Title IX protections. However, Trump and Congressional Republicans have done the opposite. Just yesterday, Trump and Republicans eroded the processes in place for sexual misconduct investigations. Since the start of the second Trump administration, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), which handles sexual abuse claims, has not entered into a single resolution agreement, despite hundreds of pending cases involving student survivors.

If Republicans cared about the safety of women they would not only restore Title IX, but expand and strengthen protections. The DWC has repeatedly blasted Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and Republicans in Congress for their attacks on Title IX and has fought for the expansion of protections for student survivors.

Our hearts break for Jane Doe at Cornell University as she navigates this case and tries to heal. We stand with you. This widespread culture of sexual violence must end. We are calling on the Trump administration and Republicans to condemn what took place at Cornell, stand in solidarity with Jane Doe, and work with us to better protect survivors and ensure they can seek justice. It is the least you can do.”

DWC Members Demand HHS & FDA Take Immediate Action to Address Shortage of Critical Estradiol Patches

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Tuesday, September 29, 2026, the Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) Senate Liaison and Caregiving Task Force Co-Chair Debbie Dingell (MI-06), DWC Member Val Hoyle (OR-04), DWC Reproductive Task Force Co-Chair and Liaison Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), and DWC Member Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) led a letter with 44 DWC Members calling on the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Acting Commissioner Kyle Diamantas and Health & Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.) to immediately address the ongoing shortage of estradiol transdermal patches (estrogen patches), which help manage menopause symptoms.

Over the past two years, partly due to the removal of the black box warning label, prescriptions for estrogen patches have risen by 162%. Now, millions of women use these patches daily to mitigate painful menopause symptoms like hot flashes, urinary tract infections, and mood swings. Unfortunately, due to a lack of manufacturing capacity, a surge in demand, and continued inaction from the FDA, women nationwide are struggling to fill their prescriptions. Without access to estrogen patches, not only will women have to mitigate ongoing menopause symptoms, the risk to their long-term bone and cardiovascular health will increase.

Members of Congress, led by Senate Liaison and Caregiving Task Force Co-Chair Debbie Dingell (D-MI), first notified HHS and the FDA of the shortage in July, but have seen no significant assistance by the FDA to aid manufacturers and help women facing continued and unnecessary suffering.

The Members begin by outlining the impact estrogen patches have on women’s health and the dangers a shortage poses:

“Estradiol patches are used by millions of individuals to manage menopause symptoms and protect long-term health, including bone density. Patients nationwide are reporting significant, ongoing difficulty filling estradiol patch prescriptions their doctors have written for them. Interrupting treatment can mean the return of debilitating symptoms for women and real risk to their long-term bone and cardiovascular health.”

The Members highlight the concerns of their constituents who are unable to fill their prescriptions:

“However, the resulting surge in demand has outpaced the supply chain’s ability to keep pace. We have heard directly from constituents who have been unable to fill their prescriptions and are given no clear timeline on when their medication will be back in stock.”

In their letter, the Members also highlight the FDA’s failure to address this crisis and help manufacturers increase production:

“While the FDA has reported they are offering assistance to manufacturers seeking to increase production, we are many months into this disruption and patients continue to report significant, ongoing difficulty accessing this medication with no clear end in sight.”

Lastly, the Members ask the FDA to outline its plan to address the shortage and make sure the millions of women who rely on this medication can fill their prescriptions:

“1. A detailed explanation of the specific factors contributing to the ongoing delay in resolving this disruption, including any regulatory, manufacturing, or supply chain bottlenecks that continue to prevent supply from meeting patient demand.

2. A current, specific timeline for when supply is expected to stabilize.

3. What interim guidance, if any, the FDA is providing to prescribers and pharmacists to help ensure patients have access to alternative formulations during the disruption.

4. Data on which specific brands and dosages remain most affected.

5. Information on how the FDA is considering whether additional manufacturers could be utilized to help close the supply gap and whether the agency is providing technical assistance to enable that.

6. Whether or not the FDA is considering adding estradiol transdermal patches to its Drug Shortage Database.”

Read the full letter here.

The letter was signed by: Ansari, Yassamin; Barragán, Nanette; Bonamici, Suzanne; Clarke, Yvette; Dexter, Maxine; Dingell, Debbie; Escobar, Veronica; Fletcher, Lizzie; Frankel, Lois; Friedman, Laura; Garcia, Sylvia; Gillen, Laura; Grijalva, Adelita; Hayes, Jahana; Houlahan, Chrissy; Hoyle, Val; Jayapal, Pramila; Johnson, Julie; Kamlager-Dove, Sydney; Leger Fernandez, Teresa; McClain Delaney, April; McIver, LaMonica; Morrison, Kelly; Pettersen, Brittany; Pingree, Chellie; Pou, Nellie; Pressley, Ayanna; Ramirez, Delia; Randall, Emily; Rivas, Luz; Ross, Deborah; Salinas, Andrea; Scholten, Hillary; Simon, Lateefah; Stansbury, Melanie; Stevens, Haley; Tlaib, Rashida; Tokuda, Jill; Trahan, Lori; Velázquez, Nydia; Waters, Maxine; Watson Coleman, Bonnie; Williams, Nikema; Wilson, Frederica

DWC Members Unveil Economic Legislative Slate: An Economy for Women

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Tuesday, September 29, 2026, the Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC), led by Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) and Policy Task Force Co-Chairs Deborah Ross (NC-02) and Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), released its Women’s Economic Legislative Slate; the third pillar of DWC’s Better Future Agenda and a policy slate designed to deliver financial stability, lower costs, economic justice, and opportunity for women and families.

This agenda comes at a critial moment for women and families, as Trump and Congressional Republicans continue to launch attacks on working families and send costs through the roof. Affordability for American families is at a historic low, with 49% of Americans unable to afford the true cost of living. Across the country, women are forced to choose between paying for groceries, healthcare, childcare, or gas as they struggle to afford to make ends meet—they deserve more.

While Republicans pour billions into wars overseas and funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), we are focused on building a future that puts affordability and economic security for women first. We are demanding a future with lower costs that closes the gender pay gap and combats wage theft; expands access to affordable childcare and paid family leave; strengthens retirement security; supports small business owners and entrepreneurs; protects workers' rights and unions; and ensures economic opportunity for all working families.

Read here a slate of bills led by DWC members that we are pushing forward to fulfill our commitment to building an affordable and more equitable future for all.

Read quotes from Democratic Women’s Caucus members with legislation included in the slate:

“Republicans and the Trump administration have made it harder for families and women to put food on the table, afford gas to drive to work, or receive lifesaving healthcare,” said DWC Chairwoman Teresa Leger Fernández. “The affordability crisis is setting women back and making it nearly impossible for women to establish the economic security needed to build a hopeful and prosperous future. That is why I introduced the Home of Your Own Act, Latina Equal Pay Act, Every Child Deserves a Head Start Act, and Women in Agriculture Act as part of DWC’s Economic Legislative Slate. My bills seek to lower costs, expand childcare access, close the gender pay gap, and create economic opportunities for women.”

“As the cost of gas, groceries, housing, and healthcare continue to rise, women and families are feeling the impact,” said DWC Vice Chair Emilia Sykes (OH-13). “I’ve introduced legislation to expand the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit and end tax on overtime for all workers to keep more money in family’s pockets, extend access to nutritious food, and ensure domestic violence survivors retain access to their Social Security benefits when they leave an abusive spouse. Women and families deserve a break and I’ll never stop fighting to make sure their voices are heard.”

"As the first woman and mother to represent my part of the country in Congress, I’m proud to stand with the Democratic Women’s Caucus in demanding a future with lower costs, fair pay, and real economic security,” said DWC Vice Chair Hillary Scholten (MI-03). “My bill in this package, the Tri-Share Child Care Pilot Act, splits the cost of child care three ways — between employers, employees, and government — so working parents aren’t shouldering that burden alone. It’s a stable, bipartisan solution that’s workable and can withstand changing political hands in Washington. Child care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for working parents. Women deserve an economy that works for them, and where they can fully participate in the work.”

“Our nation is facing an unprecedented cost of living crisis, and too many women are working harder than ever to stay afloat,” said DWC Policy Task Force Co-Chair Deborah Ross (NC-02). “Under this administration, women in North Carolina and across the country are being squeezed by the rising costs of healthcare, groceries, childcare, and so much more. Women deserve a future where economic security doesn’t feel like an impossibility. That is the future the Democratic Women’s Caucus is fighting to build. Our Economic Legislative Slate outlines solutions that support all women by lowering costs, expanding childcare access, closing the gender pay gap, and creating opportunities for women to succeed financially.”

“I’ve met with women in Georgia’s Fighting Fifth who are business owners working to keep their doors open, care workers who make all other work possible, and mothers and grandmothers struggling to put food on the table. The DWC Economic Legislative slate is a commitment to advancing the economic freedom of not just women back home but across the country. We’re fighting for equal pay for equal work, equal opportunity, affordable childcare, equal access to capital, and an end to wage theft. We’re fighting for a better future. Women deserve better, and I stand with the DWC as we continue fighting for the equity, opportunity, and economic freedom they all deserve,” said DWC Chief Whip Nikema Willians (GA-05).

“Many of my neighbors rely on our ferries every day to commute to their jobs, get to doctors appointments, and connect with their loved ones. When boats are taken off service routes, this creates significant challenges for the 20 million+ annual ferry riders in Washington state. Ferry commuters across the country deserve reliable transportation -- the bipartisan FERRIES Act significantly boosts funding for federal ferry programs to help keep routes running, and make sure that ferry riders get to where they need to go,” said DWC Whip Emily Randall (WA-06).

“The Democratic Women’s Caucus is focused on giving women more opportunities to earn, save, and build lasting financial security. My Fast Track Healthcare Apprentices Act creates faster pathways into good-paying health care careers, while my Expanded Student Saver’s Tax Credit Act helps working students start saving for retirement earlier. From a first paycheck to a secure retirement, the Democratic Women’s Caucus is working to give women more opportunities to get ahead and build a more secure financial future,” DWC Equality Caucus Liaison Julie Johnson (TX-32).

“The Democratic Women's Caucus is fighting for women who are being stretched thin by President Trump's rising costs and shrinking opportunities. Our legislative agenda would deliver real relief and promote women's economic freedom. As a leader in the Caucus, I am proud to have introduced legislation that drives this work forward — including bills to strengthen our mental health workforce and help families keep healthy food on the table. With this agenda, we're sending a clear message: women should have the power to build their lives without being held back by costs, crises, or politicians determined to limit their potential,” DWC Congressional Hispanic Caucus Liaison Andrea Salinas (OR-06).

"Under Donald Trump, it has become harder for women and families to make ends meet,” said DWC New Dem Coalition Liaison Norma Torres (CA-35). “At a time when families are already feeling squeezed by the cost of everyday necessities, the pink tax is an unfair burden that women should not be forced to carry. Women shouldn’t have to pay more simply because a product or service is marketed to them. I’m glad my legislation, the Pink Tax Repeal Act, is included in the Democratic Women’s Caucus Economic Legislative Slate, because we must put an end to gender-based price discrimination and help women keep more of their hard earned money. I’m proud to join the Democratic Women’s Caucus in advancing an agenda that lowers costs, expands economic opportunity, and helps ensure every woman has the financial security she deserves.”

"At a time in which Trump and his Republican co-conspirators are putting their own pockets and priorities before workers' and families', the DWC’s Economic Legislative Slate presents a future that promotes financial stability and wealth-building for all women," said DWC Reproductive Healthcare Task Force Co-Chair & Liaison Ayanna Pressley (MA-07). "Rather than leave families out to dry in Republicans' affordability crisis, our legislative slate would deliver support for accessible and affordable housing, food security, childcare, small businesses, workers, and more. We refuse to accept the harm of this economic crisis as an inevitability, and we're fighting for a legislative agenda that ensures women, children, and families can afford the lives they deserve."

"Women's issues are economic issues; when women thrive, our economy thrives," said DWC member Rashida Tlaib (MI-12). "I introduced the Economic Dignity for All Agenda and the Stop Price Gouging in Grocery Stores Act to help ensure that every woman, child and family has the resources to flourish. People deserve the right to economic security; our livelihoods should not be sacrificed to corporate greed."

"Black women deserve to lead happy and healthy lives. We are still more likely to be denied a mortgage. Still more likely to die in childbirth. Still paid less for the same work,” said DWC member Robin Kelly (IL-02). " The path to real economic freedom lies in solutions that address the problems at a systems level. My Protect Black Women and Girls Act, part of the Democratic Women's Caucus's Better Future Legislative Slate, does that.”

"Working families deserve financial security, a path to the middle class and economic opportunity," said DWC member Val Hoyle (OR-04). “This Administration is stripping these opportunities and turning back the clock on progress. We’re fighting back with a forward-thinking economic agenda that will close the gender pay gap, protect worker's rights and lower costs, helping Americans thrive for generations to come.”

"President Trump's tariffs and his reckless war in Iran are driving up costs across the board and hardworking Americans are paying the price. I'm proud to stand with my fellow members of the DWC in introducing common-sense legislation like the Farm and Family Relief Act, which will put an end to these catastrophic policies, drive down costs for farmers and help working families put food on the table,” said DWC member Angie Craig (MN-02).

"The Trump Administration's record on issues important to working-class women goes beyond restrictions on healthcare; it goes after their very right to support themselves and their families. Predatory corporate practices like discrimination in auto insurance rates target working-class women and women of color who are most economically vulnerable. I'm grateful for the Democratic Women's Caucus for standing up to these corporate vultures and their allies in the Trump Administration by supporting my Prohibit Auto Insurance Discrimination Act to finally put an end to car insurance company practices that see working moms with clean driving records paying higher rates than a corporate executive with DUIs,” said DWC member Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).

“Women entrepreneurs have helped power our economy for generations, but they still face too many barriers when competing for federal contracts,” said DWC member Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07). “I’m proud that my WOSB Accountability Act is part of this slate because when the federal government sets a goal to contract with women-owned businesses, those opportunities should actually reach certified women entrepreneurs. This agenda is about giving women the tools and opportunities to build businesses, support their families, and succeed.”

“Women keep our families and communities going, and so often do it with their voices silenced, needs overlooked, and rights undermined. As the Trump administration wages a war on women and Republican leaders attack our rights, I am proud to stand on the front lines with the DWC in fighting back,” DWC member LaMonica Rep. McIver (NJ-10). “The DWC’s legislative slate is an ambitious roadmap for actually delivering the results women deserve: economic freedom, real opportunities to get ahead, and the autonomy to make decisions about her own body, family, and life. That future is possible, and I will stand with my fellow DWC members as we fight for it.”

"Grocery bills, childcare, and rent keep going up, while Trump and Congressional Republicans do nothing to bring costs down," said DWC member Laura Friedman (CA-30). "The Democratic Women's Caucus has a real plan to change that, and I'm proud my Stop Disaster Price Gouging Act is part of it. After the LA wildfires, too many people who had just lost everything were hit with outrageous price hikes on housing and basic necessities. My bill cracks down on disaster price gouging with a $25,000 penalty that goes directly to supporting victims, while also giving survivors and state attorneys general the power to hold exploitative businesses accountable. I'll keep fighting alongside my DWC colleagues for an economy that makes life more affordable."

“Women’s economic freedom means having the tools and support to build stable, healthy lives for themselves and their families,” said DWC member Grace Meng (NY-06). "At a time when the Trump Administration and Republicans are threatening women’s economic security, the Democratic Women’s Caucus is putting forward a clear agenda to lower costs, protect workers, expand access to childcare and paid leave, and ensure every family has the opportunity to thrive. I’m proud that my Hot Foods Act is included in this agenda. By allowing SNAP recipients to purchase hot and prepared foods, this bill would help seniors, people with disabilities, working parents, and families access the food they need with dignity. We must continue supporting bold solutions that make everyday life more affordable and build a stronger, more equitable economy for all.”

"Grocery bills, childcare, and rent keep going up, while Trump and Congressional Republicans do nothing to bring costs down," said DWC member Laura Friedman (CA-30). "The Democratic Women's Caucus has a real plan to change that, and I'm proud my Stop Disaster Price Gouging Act is part of it. After the LA wildfires, too many people who had just lost everything were hit with outrageous price hikes on housing and basic necessities. My bill cracks down on disaster price gouging with a $25,000 penalty that goes directly to supporting victims, while also giving survivors and state attorneys general the power to hold exploitative businesses accountable. I'll keep fighting alongside my DWC colleagues for an economy that makes life more affordable."

“Women’s economic freedom means having the tools and support to build stable, healthy lives for themselves and their families,” said DWC member Grace Meng (NY-06). "At a time when the Trump Administration and Republicans are threatening women’s economic security, the Democratic Women’s Caucus is putting forward a clear agenda to lower costs, protect workers, expand access to childcare and paid leave, and ensure every family has the opportunity to thrive. I’m proud that my Hot Foods Act is included in this agenda. By allowing SNAP recipients to purchase hot and prepared foods, this bill would help seniors, people with disabilities, working parents, and families access the food they need with dignity. We must continue supporting bold solutions that make everyday life more affordable and build a stronger, more equitable economy for all.”