1. United States
2. Ill.
3. Letter

I am writing as a deeply concerned constituent regarding the direction of federal priorities under President Trump’s administration and the role Congress has played in allowing those priorities to drift away from the stated promise of “America First.” Recent actions and rhetoric—including aggressive foreign interventions, discussions surrounding Venezuela and President Nicolás Maduro, and the continued use of American taxpayer dollars to influence or destabilize foreign governments—stand in direct contradiction to the idea that American interests, communities, and working families come first. At the same time that billions of dollars and diplomatic focus are directed overseas, Americans at home are facing rising costs of living, weakened labor protections, reduced social services, underfunded infrastructure, and shrinking access to healthcare and education. Middle- and lower-income Americans are being asked to absorb these losses while being told that sacrifice is necessary—yet that sacrifice is not shared equally. What is especially troubling is the appearance of personal and financial entanglements with foreign countries that raise serious questions about conflicts of interest. When policy decisions appear to benefit foreign governments, foreign investors, or private business interests while harming American workers and taxpayers, public trust is eroded. Congress has a constitutional obligation to provide oversight and accountability, regardless of party affiliation. “America First” cannot simply be a slogan used during campaigns while American tax dollars are redirected abroad and domestic needs are ignored. True patriotism demands investment in American workers, American veterans, American infrastructure, and American families—not endless foreign leverage plays that do little to improve life here at home. I urge you to take a clear and public stand in demanding transparency, accountability, and a re-centering of federal priorities on the American people. History will remember whether Congress acted as a coequal branch of government or merely stood aside while executive power and private interests overshadowed public good. I expect my elected representatives to put this country—and its people—first.