Brad's Newsletter

As Congress prepared to recess until after Labor Day, things were busy last week in Washington. We had hearings in all three of my committees (Small Business, Judiciary and Foreign Affairs), meetings with constituents, a telephone town hall, and put the finishing touches on our August calendar.

It was another busy week at home, in Washington and around the world. First and foremost, I extend my thoughts to all those affected by the devastating apartment fire in Prospect Heights. I have been impressed, but certainly not surprised, by the incredible outpouring of support from throughout our community.

Like many of you, I closely followed President Trump's travel to Europe and meeting today with Russian President Vladimir Putin. I continue to be alarmed and astonished that President Trump is willing to forgive Russia's transgressions, while threatening our close NATO allies.

First, I want to reflect on the remarkable rescue of eight young soccer players from a flooded cave in Thailand. I continue to pray for those remaining trapped and for their rescuers. I also extend my sympathies to the family of the rescue diver who died in the process.

I was honored and inspired to join so many people in our community, and around the country, speaking out this weekend to say that Families Belong Together, and standing up in opposition to the Administration's policy that separated parents and children at the border.

I am continuing to closely monitor the situation on our southern border and the fallout from the Trump Administration's decision to separate children from their parents when apprehended by border security.

First, I hope all the Dads in the community had a wonderful Father's Day. Thank you for all you do to love, support, and encourage our daughters and sons of every generation.

This week I want to focus on the outrageous decision by the Department of Justice to separate children from their parents at the border, even in cases of families seeking asylum in our country. Last month, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced a new "zero tolerance" border policy to criminally prosecute all individuals who illegally enter the United States.