Mike Quigley has proudly represented Illinois 5th District for more than 13 years. Since being elected to Congress, Mike has been devoted to fighting for our environment, small businesses, the LGBTQ community, healthcare access, and ending gun violence.
His passion for public service can be traced back more than four decades. From 1998 to 2009, he served as a Cook County Commissioner where he worked to increase transparency within the Cook County Board of Commissioners.
He currently serves as the Chair of the Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government on the House Committee on Appropriations. Mike has utilized his position on the Committee to bring investment back to his district. Most recently, he secured over $10 million for projects within the community that will do everything from enhancing public health opportunities, to improving our city’s infrastructure.
The First Amendment to our Constitution protects five fundamental values of our society – religion, speech, press, and the right to petition and assemble. Our unwavering commitment to these principles has withstood tough battles throughout our history and has remained a cornerstone of our democracy.
Our nation is strongest when we come together to understand, support, and celebrate one another’s differences – this includes differences of religion. Hate-filled speech or actions that pit people of various faiths against one another is not only unacceptable, it is inconsistent with our founding ideals. Unfortunately, despite all of the progress we’ve made, it is clear that more work remains to ensure all Americans feel safe to worship how they so choose.
In 1860, Frederick Douglass said, “to suppress free speech is a double wrong. It violates the rights of the hearer as well as those of the speaker." During a time when the media is under attack from the Administration, simply for doing its job and holding those in government accountable for their actions, it is important to acknowledge what an important role free press and speech play in our democracy each and every day.
In order to support an open and transparent government that works on behalf of the American people, we must continue to protect the First Amendment from efforts to restrict or suppress information. We must ensure that the public has the resources and opportunities needed to understand governmental action and respond accordingly by voting, assembling, protesting, and sharing ideas with others.
It is no secret that Moscow has a longstanding desire to undermine the liberal democratic order led by the United States. Vladimir Putin’s goal to erode public trust in the democratic process is evident by his intrusion in our election, but also by his willingness to disrupt the electoral process across Europe. We must continue our efforts to ensure Russia never meddles in our democracy again. Their actions not only threaten our democratic process and our founding ideals but also our economy and security.
As the only Illinois member on the House Intelligence Committee, I am fully committed to doing whatever it takes to keep our country safe. This includes my commitment to our investigation into Russia, in terms of both their election hacking and their ties with President Trump’s campaign. Congress’ response to these incidents will have major foreign policy implications in the weeks, months, and years to come. The world is watching, and we must do all we can to deter future intrusions into our institutions, from Russia or any other actors who wish us harm.
In an effort to combat attempted attacks on our democratic process, I co-sponsored the bipartisan PAPER Act to assist states as they strengthen the cybersecurity defenses of their election systems. The intelligence community has confirmed that Russian intelligence breached 39 states’ boards of elections, including in Illinois. I have been working with Illinois election officials at every level of government to discuss the vulnerabilities that still exist and the work that remains to strengthen and modernize our election infrastructure.
Considered one of the most influential committees in Congress, the House Appropriations Committee is responsible for setting and approving the federal government’s annual spending levels for nearly all federal programs. As such, I take my role as a senior member of the committee and one of its twelve subcommittee chairmen with the utmost seriousness, fighting to ensure that funds are allocated effectively and responsibly. As an appropriator, I work to make sure Illinois and the Chicagoland area receive the funding they need to bolster the local economy and spur job creation.
Currently, I serve as the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) and Vice-Chair of the Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD). In my capacity as Chairman of the FSGG Subcommittee, I lead my colleagues in the development of the budget controlling the spending levels for many critical federal agencies, offices ,and departments, including the Department of the Treasury, the Office of Management and Budget, the Federal Trade Commission, the Federal Communications Commission, and the Federal Election Commission, among many others. In total, funding for these agencies comprises more than $20 billion of the federal budget, and ensures that our financial, communications, and election security systems are secure.
As Vice-Chair of the THUD Subcommittee, I’ve been proud to secure billions in federal funding for Chicago transportation and urban housing priorities. This includes funding through Core Capacity grants utilized by the Chicago Transit Authority, funds for commuter railroads to complete the installment of Positive Train Control safety technology, and crucial housing and community development projects through the SHOP, HOME, and Community Development Block Grant programs.
Recent appropriations bills have also included numerous measures that Senator Dick Durbin and I have called for to help protect children in affordable housing from lead poisoning. I have also fought for Urban Area Security Initiative program, which help local law enforcement harden vulnerable public places against potential attack.
Securing robust federal funding through the appropriations process is critical for safety and economic growth of the 5th District, Chicago, and Illinois. As your representative, I will continue to be a strong advocate for critical investments that continue to position Chicago as a 21st-century city.
In February of 2021, House Appropriations Committee Chair Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) announced that the House of Representatives will accept Member requests for Community Project Funding in appropriations bills for the upcoming fiscal year. Community Projects Funding are congressional provisions that direct funds toward a specific project within a community. Learn more about Community Project Funding here.
I believe that growing the economy will require getting our unsustainable debt and deficit problem under control. However, deficit reduction has to be done in a sustainable and responsible way, which is why I oppose severe, across-the-board cuts through sequestration. Instead, we must reform our outdated tax code to make it fairer and more competitive; implement smart reforms to entitlement programs, without unjustly harming beneficiaries; take a long-term look at our defense spending; and target government waste, fraud and abuse.
The only thing the President’s supposed “America First” budget will do is put hardworking American families last. Devastating cuts to infrastructure spending, jobs training programs, investments in research and development, and much more, will undo all the undeniable progress made over the last eight years and threaten the economic security of the most vulnerable people in our society. Instead of wasting time on a reckless and short-sighted budget, Congress must work on a new proposal that makes the smart investments necessary to strengthen our competitiveness and keep our communities secure.
During my time in Congress, I’ve introduced legislation to close egregious tax loopholes; reduce tens of millions in wasteful defense spending; provide taxpayers with new tools to track how their money is being spent by the federal government; and improve the federal budget process.
Congress also needs to end the irresponsible practice of crisis-to-crisis governing and begin passing long-term budgets so that federal agencies and businesses have reliable and predictable funding. This allows them to operate as effectively and efficiently as possible, and plan out years in advance as opposed to only a few months on a temporary budget. If agencies are unsure that funding will be available in the future, they will freeze hiring and training, shorten terms for grants and contracts, and delay the start of new projects. We must find a way to put partisan politics aside, so we can get back to passing long-term budgets under regular order.
At the end of 2017, Republicans in Congress forced through a wildly unpopular, deficit-increasing tax bill that will harm the hardworking people of Illinois. While I am in support of comprehensive tax reform that is simple, equitable, and supportive of middle-class families, this bill is none of those things. I will never back legislation that gives massive benefits to the wealthy and corporations at the expense of seniors, small businesses, and homeowners.
Put simply, women must have the right to make their own private health decisions. The recent overturning of the landmark decision, Roe v. Wade, is a shocking reversal of a half-century of settled law on women’s rights. While abortion remains legal in Illinios, states across the country are now enacting bans on abortion following the SCOTUS decision. We must do everything in our power now to protect equal marriage, access to birth control, and more of the rights we thought were settled law. Simply put, it is imperative that the Senate finally pass legislation to codify a woman's right to choose.
As a member of the Pro-Choice Caucus, I was proud to stand alongside advocates for choice as the Supreme Court heard arguments in 2016’s Whole Woman’s Health v. Hellerstedt, arguably the most important abortion case in decades. In recent years, we have seen a sharp increase in attacks on abortion and reproductive services, which is why I have been proud to help pass the Women’s Health Protection Act, to push for passage of the EACH Woman Act, and to join my colleagues in calling for an end to the Hyde Amendment that prevents federal funding for abortion. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have also pushed for increased funding for the Title X program and Planned Parenthood, and defended the United Nations Population Fund from harmful and misguided funding cuts.
It is imperative that a woman’s healthcare decisions remain between her and her doctor. Women must be free from government interference to make the choices about what is best for their health and their families. Choice is not solely a “women’s issue”. It’s a civil rights issue and an American issue. And as your representative in Washington, I will always stand up for women’s reproductive rights. I have been encouraging men to step up in protecting access to affordable birth control and to support women in the fight for reproductive rights.
As a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, I am briefed daily about the threats facing our country and what we are doing to stop them. In these trying times, Americans are understandably concerned for their safety, but we must not allow fear to lead to overreaction, bad policy, or unintended consequences.
Instead, I’m working hard to ensure that Congress provides leadership and answers the question: What really keeps Americans safe? Every dollar we waste funding outdated strategies designed for the Cold War is another dollar that is not going towards law enforcement, intelligence gathering, cybersecurity, and many other programs that actually secure the U.S. against the evolving threats we face today. That’s why I’ve been pushing for a continued bipartisan, bi-cameral independent investigation into the Trump administration’s ties to Russia, pushing for increases in U.S. Homeland Security grant funding for states and localities and helping introduce legislation that prioritizes nuclear non-proliferation & deficit reduction in Defense Appropriations Bills to strengthen Chicago’s ability to prevent and respond to terrorist attacks and major natural disasters. I have also been pushing back against President Trump’s “America First” foreign policy, which sends the wrong signal to the global community that the United States is relinquishing its leadership role in protecting shared values and strengthening diplomacy world-wide.
It is important to remember that every national security challenge is unique. There is no cookie-cutter strategy for deterring and defeating our enemies. But the U.S. has the capabilities and the know-how to defend against these threats. That’s why Congress must stop exploiting public’s fears and work together to keep Americans safe.
From the Lakeview neighborhood on Chicago’s north side to Bensenville in DuPage County, Illinois’s Fifth District is home to some of the region’s finest communities, businesses, and attractions – including the historic home of the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. I am honored to call it my home and proud to represent the people who make it so unique.
Since my election to Congress in 2009, I have worked hard to make myself available to my constituents so I can better address their needs. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, one of my most important jobs in Congress is to drive federal funding back home to improve things like our region’s transportation infrastructure. I have worked hard to not only provide additional resources to support the region’s economic development, but also to make my office a critical resource for my constituents. I believe in making the office available and accessible to everybody by hosting Visiting Office Hours and Congress on Your Corner events in neighborhoods across the district. Additionally, through my “Undercover Congressman” series, I have had the opportunity to join constituents where they work in an effort to better understand the various industries and jobs that contribute to the district’s economy. Serving as an Undercover Congressman, I’ve been privileged to try my hand at a wide variety of vocations including zookeeper, firefighter, pinball machine mechanic, baker, farmer and many more.
I am honored that the people of Illinois’ Fifth District have chosen me to represent them in Congress. I promise to work hard every day to make our district, city and state a better place for you and your family.
Our country has come a long way since 2008 when our nation experienced the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression. Since that time, I’m proud to say our economy has significantly recovered. Thanks in large part to the policies implemented under the Obama Administration, unemployment has been cut in half, household wealth exceeds pre-crisis levels, and we’ve had the longest streak of private-sector job growth in our history. However, it’s indisputable that too many Americans still aren’t experiencing the benefits of our growing economy. In fact, between 2009 and 2012, 91 percent of income gains went to those in the top one percent. This means it’s harder for middle-class Americans to climb the ladder of success, and even harder for poor Americans to grab hold of the lowest rung. I believe that expanding our middle class requires us to adopt a combination of policies that tackle income inequality so all Americans have a fair shot in today’s economy and polices that accelerate economic growth so American workers and businesses can thrive in tomorrow’s economy.
In Congress, I’m an active member of the New Democrat Coalition, which is a pro-growth, fiscally-responsible, solutions-oriented coalition of members that seeks to bridge the partisan divide and enact new and innovative policies that will help build a 21st century American economy. I’ve been proud to introduce legislation, which is now law, that will give small businesses a greater voice in the regulatory process. I’ve also supported legislation to expand small business exports overseas; raise the minimum wage; combat wage discrimination; and reward businesses that hire veterans. Furthermore, I have opposed efforts to undermine worker's rights and have addressed the importance of strengthening our unions.
While the Trump Administration has proposed devastating budget cuts to a number of federal agencies and programs that American families depend on, I have worked hard as a member of the House Appropriations Committee to promote policies that would provide Illinois families with new economic opportunities.
An investment in our children's education is an investment in our country's future. The importance of providing our children the best possible education cannot be overstated, especially as so many Americans battle economic hardship. That’s why I have made modernizing and improving our school system a top priority during my time in Congress.
I was proud to support the bipartisan reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, which fixes the broken “No Child Left Behind” law and provides vital federal funding to states and local school districts to help improve K-12 education around the country. Included in the final bill was my bipartisan amendment to prevent the removal of important standards for classroom paraprofessionals and ensure that our students are being taught by qualified individuals, was included in the final bill. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have worked to increase funding for Preschool Development Grants, Head Start, and other education programs. I have supported policies that would make it easier for students to attend college by fighting for an extension of the Perkins Loan Program, which offers low-interest federal loans for undergraduate and graduate students with exceptional financial need. Finally, as founder and co-chair of the bipartisan International Basic Education Caucus, I have worked to increase international basic education programs and boost understanding of global education challenges.
Affordable and accessible education is one of the most important issues facing our country. I will continue fighting in Congress to develop innovative and pragmatic policies that support our teachers and ensure all children have fair and equal access to a high quality education.
We live in a time of unprecedented threat to our environment. From pollution to habitat degradation to the global crisis of man-made climate change, the evidence all around us is clear that we must act to protect our planet and everything living on it.
I have been a proud member of the Sierra Club since I was 16 years old and my passion for the environment is one of the primary reasons I first got into public service. Today, I serve as Vice-Chair of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition, a group of more than 70 members of the House of Representatives committed combating climate change and ensuring a robust, resilient, low-carbon economy for generations to come.
I believe that climate change represents an existential threat to the lives and livelihoods of millions of Americans and billions around the world and that Congress must act with the urgency and ambition that climate science demands. For these reasons, I was an original cosponsor of the Green New Deal, a bold and aspirational proposal to transition our economy away from reliance on fossil fuels.
I have consistently supported legislation that aims to protect our planet, a fact that is reflected by my 98% lifetime score from the League of Conservation Voters. In particular, I have been proud to champion measures that prevent mining and fossil fuel exploration and drilling on our nation’s public lands and to author the Botanical Sciences and Native Plant Materials Research, Restoration, and Promotion Act, which will help increase the botanical capacity of the federal government and ensure that America’s unique and incredible ecosystems remain intact. I have also organized visits to more than five National Parks with my Congressional colleagues to witness firsthand the impacts of climate change on America’s most pristine landscapes and meet with the incredible National Park Service staff on the front lines of this challenge. We must do everything in our power to address the climate crisis so that generations to come can enjoy the majesty of America’s public lands just as we have.
I understand that we cannot solve the climate crisis without realizing how interconnected its impacts truly are. Today, the results of climate change can already be seen across the world’s plant and animal populations. During my time in Congress, I’ve also been proud to support wildlife through my support for the Endangered Species Act, which for over forty years has helped prevent the extinction of our nation’s unique wildlife.
I also understand that we can’t do it alone. Marching alongside climate activists, I have been inspired by the millions of young people around our country fighting for a better future. I will continue working with my colleagues to address the realities of climate change and dedicating my time in Congress to supporting legislation that protects our communities and develops strategies to combat the many threats facing our environment.
Throughout my career, I have firmly believed in President Abraham Lincoln's vision that our country is on an evolutionary path to full equality for all Americans and that the fight for human rights remains ongoing. I’ve always believed that it is our moral obligation to ensure justice for all, and not allow race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation to divide us.
As Vice-Chair of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, I’ve been an outspoken advocate in the fight for marriage equality. To highlight the disproportionate impact poverty and income inequality has on the LGBT community, I’ve used my role on the Equality Caucus to bring together experts to talk about potential solutions through regular series of briefings on the “Economics of Equality”. I’m also proud to be a leader in Congress of the bipartisan, bicameral fight for a much needed change to the FDA’s outdated and discriminatory blood donation policy for gay men. I’ve also worked to protect the rights of LGBT individuals in immigration detention. And while full marriage equality was a momentous victory, it is hardly the end of the fight for full equality for all Americans. That is why I helped introduce the Equality Act, which is the first comprehensive bill designed to ban discrimination against LGBT individuals in the core areas of daily life including in public accommodations, housing, and employment.
As a founding member of the Transgender Equality Task Force, I was proud to re-launch this important effort in March 2017.
Whether it’s fighting for marriage equality, opposing senseless discrimination, or standing up for those who cannot defend themselves, I believe that we must be guided by doing what’s right, what’s fair, and what’s just. Our country is at its best when all voices are heard and represented equally and we must always strive towards that goal.
American leadership abroad is more necessary than ever due to a complex global landscape, evolving national security threats, and political instability around the globe. Whether in Syria, Ukraine, Western Europe or Israel, the evolving nature of our international relations requires us to continuously reevaluate what measures are necessary to really keep America safe.
While in Congress, I’ve supported a focused foreign policy that curbs runaway defense spending and instead invests in intelligence, international development, humanitarian aid, global health and direct diplomacy. I am proud to be the co-chair of the International Basic Education Caucus and belong to a number of Diaspora focused caucuses representative of the rich multi-ethnic heritage of Chicago and the Fifth District. While not perfect, I voted in favor of the Iran Nuclear deal and have fought for the continuation of the U.S. Syrian refugee resettlement effort. I have been a vocal champion for the Visa Waiver Program and have introduced the Visa Waiver Program Enhanced Security and Reform Act and the JOLT Act to make the program more secure and viable for future generations . In May 2017, I was proud to introduce the Poland Visa Waiver Act to finally allow Poland to participate in the Visa Waiver Program. And, as a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have fought to fund critical programs that combat HIV/AIDS and promote international development like PEPFAR, USAID, and the Strategic Climate Fund.
Under President Trump’s Administration, I have repeatedly spoken out against his “America First” foreign policy. I believe that for the United States to be safe, secure, and prosperous in a globalized world we must engage and work with our allies. This also means that we cannot turn our back on the importance of diplomacy. I have encouraged political and business leaders alike to invest in diplomacy and development programs so that we can increase security and grow the economy here at home.
American values and culture represent our most important global exports. We must invest in a foreign policy designed at its core to build people up and tear walls down. That’s true American leadership.
Our nation is in the midst of a gun violence epidemic and, sadly, nowhere is this more evident than in Chicago. The tragedy of gun violence in America is compounded by another tragedy in Washington, DC: congressional inaction. That is why I have refused to standby idly while thousands of Americans die each year due because of these deadly weapons.
Since coming to Congress, I have been proud to cosponsor legislation requiring mandatory background checks on 100 percent of gun sales; limiting the sale of assault weapons and high-capacity magazines; improving the National Instant Background Check System to keep weapons out of the hands of criminals, and the mentally ill; implementing buyback programs; and requiring tougher penalties for criminals caught trafficking guns across state lines. I have also used my position as a member of the House Appropriations Committee to secure additional funding to help local police departments to implement new strategies to curb violence and fought to remove the incomprehensible ban placed on the Center for Disease Control so they can begin the critical work of researching gun violence.
I have also supported important legislation in the House, like the Bipartisan Background Checks Act, H.R. 8, which would require unlicensed gun sellers to use the same verification system by requiring them to sell their guns through licensed dealers only. This bill defines exceptions for individuals to loan a gun for hunting, to use a gun in self-defense, and to give a gun as a gift to family members. Additionally, I voted in favor of the Enhanced Background Checks Act, H.R. 1112, which addresses the so-called “Charleston Loophole,” that currently allows the sale of a firearm to proceed if a background check is not completed within three business days. This bill gives the FBI additional time to complete these background check investigations before the firearm can be transferred.
No perfect solution exists to end all gun violence, but we know from looking at other countries that a combination of small but practical policy solutions can severely reduce it. By enacting commonsense, reasonable gun legislation, Congress can make a difference. But unless the status quo in Congress changes, we will continue to lose countless American lives to gun violence.
In his effort to enact health care reform in 1912, President Theodore Roosevelt described the importance of health care best when he said, “No country can be strong if its people are sick and poor.” These sentiments ring as true today as they did then. Health care is an essential right, and a healthy America is a more productive, safer and better place to call home.
I was proud that one of my earliest votes in Congress was for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) because it ensures that millions of Americans have access to affordable, quality health care. In light of the House vote in favor of the American Health Care Act, I will continue to fight—through the appropriations process and otherwise—to protect Americans with preexisting conditions and ensuring quality, affordable care for all. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have fought to fund some of the Fifth District’s most important health programs like Planned Parenthood, community health centers and HIV prevention. I’ve worked to advance critical research and development and fully fund the National Institutes for Health (NIH), which supports groundbreaking developments in cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and countless other conditions.
Unfortunately, Republicans in the White House and in Congress put politics over people by pursuing a bill that will cause tens of millions of Americans to lose coverage. Quality, affordable care is a right for all, including for our seniors and those with pre-existing conditions who will now be forced to pay considerably higher out-of-pocket costs under this bill. The American people have made their voices clear in strong opposition to this dangerous legislation. They want us to improve and strengthen Affordable Care Act, not destroy it.
My election to Congress in 2009 provided me with the opportunity to fight for my constituents on some of the most pressing issues facing our nation. While I take those responsibilities seriously, my role in Congress has also given me a platform to take my enthusiasm for the world’s greatest sport, hockey, to Capitol Hill.
As a co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Hockey Caucus, I am dedicated to introducing the game to newcomers while promoting hockey as a way to combat childhood obesity and encourage exercise, teamwork, discipline, and commitment. As part of the National Hockey League’s Hockey Is for Everyone initiative, I’ve been proud to work with Chicago Blackhawks Charities and others to spread the game of hockey among youth throughout Chicago. Together, we have expanded access for at-risk youth at the Neighborhood Boys and Girls Club in Chicago and to the LGBT community through the Center on Halsted. Additionally, I’ve been proud to team up on numerous occasions with the USA Warriors, a team comprised of injured and disabled Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans, who play hockey as part of their physical recovery efforts.
From programs that bring children together to play in a safe environment, to adult programs that encourage a healthy lifestyle and an outlet for recovery, I truly believe hockey is one of the ways we can make our country stronger.
We have a responsibility to work together to bring the American dream within reach for as many as possible and that begins with ensuring that every American has access to safe, affordable housing.
As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I’m fighting to bring valuable federal housing and urban development funding back to the Chicago region. I’ve been proud to secure funding for the Fair Housing Initiative Program, which is leading the fight against housing discrimination. I’ve worked to combat homelessness by pushing for increased funding for VA homeless assistance programs like the HUD-VA Supportive Housing Program and the Supportive Services for Low Income Veterans and Families Program. And, I’ve been a champion for increased funding for the Housing Opportunities for People with AIDS (HOPWA) program, which provides housing assistance and supportive services to people living with HIV/AIDS. Moreover, I’ve lead the fight to modernize the outdated HOPWA formula so Chicago will have access to increased funding.
Housing is a basic, human need, which is why we must do all we can to provide equal access and reduce homelessness across the country. I will continue to support robust funding for a broad range of programs designed to promote affordable housing, homeownership, and community development.
The United States has always been a nation of immigrants. It’s essential that our immigration policies reflect this country’s rich history of diversity and the countless contributions that immigrants have and continue to make. History tells us that comprehensive immigration reform raises wages, creates jobs, and generates additional tax revenue. That’s why I will continue to work towards pragmatic solutions that reform our broken immigration system, keep our borders secure, and provide a pathway to citizenship for the millions of undocumented immigrants currently living in the shadows.
I believe we can and should create a twenty-first century immigration system that will stimulate jobs, enhance global competitiveness, and help to grow a highly skilled U.S. workforce. I have strongly spoken out against President Trump’s executive orders on immigration, which only further separates families and continues unnecessary deportation of millions of members of our community. I proudly introduced the Safeguarding Sanctuary Cities Act to stand in solidarity with any immigrant seeking security and safety within our cities. I also continue to fight tirelessly to enact more humane deportation and detention policies, to improve standards and conditions at immigration detention centers, and to protect the legal rights of undocumented immigrants. I also support refugee resettlement, policies and efforts to end the costly and arbitrary immigration detention bed quotas and the unnecessary detention of children and families. I have introduced legislation that will increase high skilled visas so that America can continue to attract the world’s best and brightest. And I continue to push for an expansion of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) through the JOLT Act, which will increase tourism and bolster our economy by allowing citizens of selected countries, including Poland, that meet strict U.S. security standards to travel to the U.S. for 90 days without a U.S. visa.
America’s strength as a nation is being jeopardized by a broken immigration system that is tearing families apart, disrupting our workforce and draining our resources. Our nation was built by immigrants, and that proud tradition is more important now than ever before. I’ve met with Chicagoland DREAMers who would face deportation if Congress fails to protect DACA recipients. Our actions must reflect our values and our history, and I believe that embracing those who come to America seeking a better life for themselves and their family make us a stronger and better nation.
Since O’Hare became part of the 5th Congressional District in January 2013, my staff and I have become immersed in the issues surrounding the O’Hare Modernization Program (OMP) and O’Hare 21 capital investment project. We have met repeatedly with residents and neighborhood groups to hear their concerns regarding the impact of airplane noise on the communities surrounding the airport and convey those concerns to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the airlines. But there’s more left to do.
The unprecedented noise pollution facing our local communities is a serious problem that warrants urgent action. The FAA’s failure to quickly and responsively address resident’s concerns and the agency’s lack of candor is completely unacceptable.
We need to pursue both long- and short-term solutions to the problems facing residents near the airport, which is why I’ve urged the FAA to reevaluate the 65 DNL metric used to determine whether or not residents qualify for FAA assistance for noise mitigation insulation in their homes. In 2015, I was successful in getting FAA to undertake a study of the DNL level, but that study is now more than a year overdue and FAA refuses to adequately explain the reasons for the delay or when the study might be released.
I have also worked with the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) to expand the Fly Quiet runway rotation program. Fly Quiet is an effective short-term solution but as the construction of parallel runways at O’Hare continues, it can no longer be a viable option. Instead, FAA, the airport, the airlines, and the government at both the city and federal levels must work to incorporate noise considerations into every step of the airport and airspace planning and operation processes.
Additionally, I am a founding member and Vice-Chair of the Quiet Skies Caucus, which is composed of legislators from around the country who aim to raise awareness of aircraft noise and work to find meaningful solutions to the problem. Since coming to Congress, I have pressed successive FAA Commissioners on the lack of FAA’s responsiveness to these urgent concerns. Put simply, the FAA needs to do better. My constituents’ quality of life near O’Hare has suffered, and the FAA’s tepid response is troubling. There is more work to be done at all levels, and we will continue to encourage the FAA, Chicago Department of Aviation, and airlines to search for solutions that can provide relief to residents, who are losing both sleep and patience.
A robust O’Hare and a vibrant 5th District need not be mutually exclusive. We will continue to pursue every avenue that reduces noise without compromising safety.
Congressman Quigley has long believed government must be consolidated, streamlined, and made more applicable for the 21st century. The mission of government matters, and in order to create the most efficient system possible, we must ask ourselves how we would design government if we were to start over from scratch today: what services would government provide? How would they be provided? Who would provide them?
“Reinventing Government: The Federal Budget” is a two-part report outlining steps to reform the federal budget. Part I focuses on improved budgeting and long-term sustainability. It includes 15 recommendations for a more complete and accurate budget to create a clear picture of our fiscal situation. Part II makes 60 recommendations to save $2 trillion over the next 10 years.
“Reinventing Government: The Federal Budget” is available here:
During his 10 years as a Cook County Commissioner, Rep. Quigley wrote a series of groundbreaking reports laying out detailed plans for the "reinventing" of Cook County government, most famously arguing for more transparency and accountability in Tax Increment Financing (TIFs). Quigley continued his mission to reinvent government in Washington, publishing "Reinventing Government: The Federal Budget" Parts I and II.
Full PDFs of Rep. Quigley’s Cook County reports (2001-2008) are available here:
There was a time not too long ago when American seniors were too often forced to go without food, medicine, and quality healthcare. But thanks to transformative programs like Social Security and Medicare, most seniors in this country are provided the opportunity to live with the stability and peace of mind they have earned and deserve. Still, we must continue to fight against efforts to undermine the federal programs that provide this critical safety net.
In 2016, I was proud to support the reauthorization of the bipartisan Older Americans Act, which for decades has been vital to America’s seniors, helping to fund critical services that keep older Americans healthy and independent like meal assistance, job training, senior centers, caregiver support, transportation, health promotion, and benefits enrollment programs. Each year, I host the Fifth District Senior Fair that brings together government and community organizations that offer resources and programs to seniors in my district. I have made the fight to improve Medicare and Social Security a top priority so we can ensure their financial viability for generations to come. As a cosponsor of both the Social Security Fairness Act and the Medicare Access to Rehabilitation Services Act, I am always working to better the lives of our seniors. I was proud to author the Transit Accessibility Innovation Act, which provides increased funding to make public transit more accessible and user-friendly to seniors. I’ve also used my position as a Vice-Chair of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus to create the LGBT Aging Issues Task Force that advocates for legislative and administrative action to protect the dignity and security of elderly LGBT people. And as a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I’ve been proud to support funding to improve seniors’ housing, nutrition, employment and elder abuse prevention.
We owe it to America’s seniors, and future generations, to ensure the solvency of our entitlement programs. We all must work to allow seniors the opportunity to live out their retirement with dignity and I’m committed to continuing that fight in Congress.
The mission of government matters; however, we can’t lead effectively if we don’t have the people’s trust. That’s why I believe Justice Brandeis said it best when he said, “Sunlight is the best of disinfectants.” To rebuild the people’s trust in our democracy, we need a government that does all it can to be transparent and provide the public with the tools they need to hold our government accountable.
As founder and chair of the Congressional Transparency Caucus, I have worked hard to make the federal government more accessible and open to the public. My comprehensive transparency legislation, the Transparency in Government Act (TGA), includes reforms that will shine a light on every branch of the federal government, strengthening our democracy, and promoting an efficient, effective, and open government. I have also prioritized legislation that would make congressionally mandated reports easily accessible to the public, increase oversight in the judiciary by allowing cameras in courtrooms, and require federal agencies to publish congressional budget justifications on a centralized website.
Additionally, under the Trump administration, I have become increasingly alarmed at how the President encourages violations of one of the bedrock legal guardrails of our democracy, the Hatch Act; carelessly obstructs government watchdogs when they try to discipline lawbreakers; flagrantly ignores disclosure requirements; provides limited access to White House visitor logs; and disregards ethics regulations pertaining to conflicts of interest in which his business deals and personal interests conflict with his public duties as President. In response, I have introduced bills like the RNC ACT, or the Reducing Nefarious Crimes Act, to increase penalties for violating the Hatch Act, and the MAR-A-LAGO Act, to require disclosure of visitor logs at the White House and other Trump properties where official business is conducted. As a member of Congress, I believe it is my duty and that of my colleagues to hold the Executive Branch accountable and carry out our constitutional responsibility to provide thorough oversight of the federal government.
By taking action now, we can restore Americans’ faith in government and prove to the public that we are worthy of the responsibility they have entrusted us with. Increasing transparency and accountability in government is not only the key to increasing public trust; it is the key to improving the government.
Our transportation infrastructure has been the backbone of our economic success for generations. But today, our crumbling infrastructure is slowing economic growth, hurting our ability to create jobs, and endangering our very well-being. Now more than ever, it is important to invest in long-term projects that aim to modernize our national infrastructure, provide efficient and safe transportation of goods and people, and reduce congestion and pollution, including harmful climate-warming greenhouse gasses.
As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have prioritized Chicago-area infrastructure investment from my position as Vice-Chair of the Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD). I have championed robust funding for our nation’s transportation infrastructure and brought over $1 billion in federal funding back to my city and state for vital infrastructure projects.
Since coming to Congress, I have helped lead the charge to reauthorize transportation infrastructure investments for highways, rail, and mass transit, and I will continue to fight to bring funding certainty to states, localities, and businesses as they complete critical infrastructure projects. Additionally, I believe that our infrastructure investments must extend beyond roads and bridges and address funding challenges relating to airports, waterways, drinking water infrastructure, the power grid, railways, and public transit. I’ve fought for increased funding to make public transit more accessible and user-friendly to seniors and Americans with disabilities.
Transparency and accountability are critical for responsible infrastructure spending and that’s why I launched my “Mike on the Move” initiative in 2014 to highlight the Chicago region’s transportation needs.
Reliable, safe, and affordable transportation options are indispensable to ensuring the continued prosperity of our nation. Renewing and reinvigorating America’s transportation infrastructure will require forward-thinking investments in our nation’s roads, trails, and rails. As a country, we should be doing everything we can to ensure that we have the necessary infrastructure to support a 21st century economy. I will continue to emphasize how the federal government can support these essential investments.
As they do every five years, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee is advancing surface transportation legislation. As part of this process, Members of Congress have the ability to submit requests before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for projects within their district. To ensure oversight, transparency, and accountability throughout the process, Members who submit a Member Designated Project request must also post the request online to their official House.gov website. Click here to learn more about the five projects Quigley has presented before the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
As Americans, we owe a special debt of gratitude to our nation’s veterans. More importantly, we have a responsibility to protect and support them when they return from defending our freedoms abroad. Every veteran deserves quality healthcare, access to education, housing, and employment.
If you are a veteran seeking help with your VA benefits, please contact my office to open a case.
From reliable services at VA medical centers to easily accessible mental health care, we owe our veterans access to quality, affordable healthcare. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I’ve fought to increase funding for veteran mental health services, suicide prevention, and medical and prosthetic research.
I have also supported increased funding for VA homeless assistance programs like the HUD-VA Supportive Housing Program, which provides rental assistance to help homeless veterans secure safe and reliable housing while providing clinical services to help these veterans get back on their feet.
As a stalwart champion for our LGBTQ servicemembers, I continue to engage with the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs to create a more inclusive military for women, gay and lesbian, and trans service members and veterans. As President Trump has targeted transgender service members, I have spoken out against his harmful rhetoric and attempts to block these heroes from serving the country that they love. We must also always ensure that transgender veterans are getting the care and respect they’ve earned through their service.
President Kennedy said, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” As your representative in Congress, I take these words to heart and strive to better serve all those who have served America.
The Veterans Crisis Line is a free, confidential resource available to any Veteran, even if they are not enrolled in VA health care or registered with VA. Care does not end when the conversation is over. If you’re a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one, the Veterans Crisis Line is standing by to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in crisis, call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1.