On her first return to the Bay after taking the oath of office, freshman Congresswoman Lateefah Simon is getting right into her work.
“We’re in trouble, everyone. Even when we are in danger, we remain upright. Rep. Simon stated, “We’re from Oakland, and we’re not going down without a serious fight.”
She spoke with local groups on Wednesday who are concerned about how President Trump’s announced proposal to block federal money would affect them.
“Thinking about what is at stake, SNAP benefits, housing, childcare,” stated Representative Simon.
Representative Simon stated that no one, not even members of Congress, truly understands what will happen next, despite the White House rescinding the memo on Wednesday that called for the freeze.
“You like I, we’re on the internet, we’re onhouse.gov, I’m looking at the executive office, the budget office every five minutes to try and determine what do we tell our people, and we have no answers,” Rep. Simon added.
Representative Simon claimed that the Trump administration is currently withholding $2 million that was scheduled to be given to the East Bay Asian Local Development Corporation.
“They have already been awarded the grant, already been awarded the grant, they have an award letter, and they received a message yesterday from the Trump administration saying that they cannot access those resources,” said Representative Simon.
According to Janelle Chan, CEO of the East Bay Asian Local Development Corporation, funds will be used to upgrade underpasses under Interstate 880 to facilitate travel to and from Oakland’s Chinatown.
“Good communities, neighborhoods, safe streets, that is bipartisan, and so we’re looking to continue and talk about how we can share in our goals and work together,” Chan stated.
Chan stated that she is currently uncertain about the future of the underpass project.
Regarding whether her organization would receive the grant funds, she has not received any official word from the federal government.
In order to ensure that the East Bay Asian Local Development Corporation receives the funding, Representative Simon stated that she intends to fight to the death.
“The prize was given out. A contract existed. The US president is free to say whatever he wants. Rep. Simon stated, “We will make sure of this by suing and by literally presenting the Constitution to the executive office and claiming it is our resource.”
Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.