Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman

Today, we honor the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of all who have honorably served our country.

On Veterans Day and every day, we must ensure our veterans and their families receive the care, benefits, and opportunities they have earned.

Over the last two years, Pete Hegseth has exemplified the embarrassment the Trump administration has inflicted on the United States and the damage to our standing on the world stage.

His fragile ego, warped worldview, and arrogance led us into a war without a strategy and an ever-changing objective. As the war dragged on, he lied about the needless deaths of civilians and attempted to cover up casualties among our own service members.

Now, we are nine months into a conflict that the Trump administration claimed would last weeks; our military resources have been drained, our readiness to defend ourselves in future conflicts is in jeopardy, and Americans are paying astronomical prices everywhere from the gas station to grocery stores.

Meanwhile, Hegseth has grossly disregarded the health and safety of service members with unreasonably long deployments. He has purged decorated and experienced officers because of their race and gender. His actions demonstrate his unwillingness to place our military’s best interests above a political agenda. It has been devastating to service members and their families.

The American people have made it clear that they do not have confidence in Hegseth’s ability to provide competent leadership. They do not want this war and are sick and tired of the economic consequences. Yet Republicans, who were reprimanded by their constituents only a week ago today, continue to shield him from accountability on the eve of Veterans Day.

Pete Hegseth was always unfit to serve as Secretary of Defense, and he can’t change that with a few pull-ups. He is a disgrace to our nation and should have never been confirmed for the position.

This saga will not end with today’s vote. I may be retiring, but House Democrats will continue to hold him and the Trump administration accountable for what has been a disastrous, costly, and illegal war of choice.

Diwali is a celebration of good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. That’s on full display here.
The First Amendment applies to everyone. These bigots won’t change that.

Behind every servicemember is a family that makes sacrifices, navigates challenges, and provides unwavering support.

This November, we honor military families and recognize the importance of supporting them at every stage of their journey.

I for one think it’s refreshing to have a Congressman from the 2nd District who cares more about serving his constituents than about the paycheck.