by Rep. Debbie Dingell

Between meetings in D.C. and the district, committee and caucus meetings, and events at home these last couple of weeks have been busy. Importantly many people across the district, are concerned about federal funding cuts – what that will look like, how it will impact the community, and what there is to do to combat it.

NIH Funding

The NIH announced plans to cut funding by imposing a 15% cap on NIH support for indirect costs. Medical research saves lives, creates jobs, and enhances the quality of life for millions of Americans. We are benefiting from the groundbreaking discoveries of the past, and future generations deserve the same opportunities for progress. 

Many research groups in Michigan, including the University of Michigan have many critical studies underway including cancer, Alzheimer’s, cardiac, diabetic, among many others. Funding cuts put those advancements at risk, potentially leaving many without critical treatment options and slowing the life-saving innovations we rely on. We cannot afford to let this vital research stall.

Ford Motor Company

I met Ford to discuss how EVs are critical to keeping our auto industry competitive globally. We must ensure these investments are tied to good jobs, strengthening our supply chains, and securing our economic and national security. Investing in EVs and electrification supports not just auto workers but also suppliers and entire communities, creating a foundation for the future. Michigan must be at the forefront of this innovation, and if we aren’t, we will put our supply chains, economic growth, and security at risk.

Trade Association Leadership Council

The Trade Association Leadership Council met to discuss key trade and manufacturing challenges, including the importance of maintaining our domestic auto and health care industries. We also covered how potential policy changes under a second Trump administration could impact the broadband rollout and environmental regulations.

Tariffs

Tariffs are a tool that, when applied strategically, can strengthen our economy, protect American workers, and support domestic manufacturing. We cannot allow China to exploit our trade agreements. We need trade policies that prioritize American jobs, union labor, and economic security, and keep America competitive globally. We cannot have tariffs grounded in politics. American workers and businesses need certainty.

See my statement on Canada, Mexico, and China tariffs here, my statement on steel and aluminum tariffs here, and my interview on steel and aluminum tariffs here.

Supporting Survivors of Sexual and Domestic Violence

Spoke at a meeting of the National Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Organizations who are very concerned about their funding, which is crucial for providing essential resources and support to survivors. Without crucial funding from programs established in the Violence Against Women Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act, staff will face burnout and layoffs, services will be halted and shelters could be forced to close their doors. I will continue to work closely with these groups to ensure that these programs can continue without interruption, doing the work that survivors and their families rely on.

American Medical Association

Doctors from Michigan and members of the American Medical Association came to D.C. to discuss strengthening patients’ access to care.

Proposed Medicare cuts are raising serious concerns among doctors about their ability to continue providing essential care to our communities and Medicare recipients. This threatens children and seniors in particular access to healthcare. We must work together to ensure if you are sick, you have access to health care.