Rep Dean Phillips: What did you think about Biden’s Speech?

Rep. Phillips banner


Hi Neighbors,

I’m checking in with an update after a beautiful spring weekend (and exciting State Fair news). From meeting with constituents to introducing legislation, we got a lot done last week, and I’m excited to share some of the highlights with you. But first, I want to know what you thought of President Biden’s first address to a joint session of Congress:


On Monday, I was named the 12th-most bipartisan Member of Congress by the nonpartisan Lugar Center, and I am so grateful that the President shares my goal of uniting our country around a common purpose. From introducing bipartisan legislation to securing much-needed relief for restaurants, we can do more united than divided:

Rooting out Corruption

Elected officials should serve the people, not their pocketbook – but under current law, local officials are allowed to lobby Washington on behalf of special interests. That’s a blatant betrayal of the public trust, and it must be prohibited immediately. Re-establishing faith in our government starts with good ethics, which is why I was pleased to join my friend and fellow Member of the Problem Solvers Caucus, Rep. Van Taylor (R-TX), in introducing the Elected Official Lobbying Prohibition Act. This bipartisan bill would prevent elected officials from lobbying Congress on behalf of private clients, and return power to the people, where it rightfully belongs.

Homes for Veterans

Our nation has always found the resources to go to war, and we must also find the resources to provide the support our veterans and their families deserve when they come home. As a Gold Star Son, I am adamant that no veteran should be without a home, but more than 40,000 veterans are homeless on any given night – a fact that is simply unacceptable.

Rep. Phillips with MACV


Last week, I had the opportunity to join the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV) for a tour hotel that serves as a transitional housing facility where veterans can access support and services until they find more permanent housing. This partnership is a model I would love to see replicated throughout the nation to end veterans homelessness entirely. I am so grateful for the work MACV is doing in our community, and will continue to advocate for our veterans in Congress.

Relief for Restaurants 

It has been a tremendously tough year for small businesses that rely on community gathering, which is why I’m happy to announce that Minnesota bars, restaurants, bakeries, and food trucks are now able to apply for direct relief through the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF). This $28.6 billion fund was created by the American Rescue Plan that I helped pass last month after months of advocating to Congressional leaders for direct support for restaurants. SBA Administrator Isabel Guzman and local restaurateur Andrew Zimmern went live on Instagram last week to discuss the RRF application process. Click here to watch their conversation.

Representation Begins with Listening

Whether it’s in person or virtual, the best part of my job is connecting with and learning from Minnesotans. 

Rep. Phillips Meets with Jewish Community Relations Council
I met with the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota (JCRC) to discuss financial relief for nonprofits and strengthening the U.S.-Israel relationship
Rep. Phillips visits with African Development Center
A wonderful visit to the African Development Center to talk about their work in financial literacy, business development, and homeownership counseling for Minnesota’s African community.

Empowering Young People

Every year I invite high schoolers from across Minnesota’s Third Congressional District to join my Youth Advisory Council, and now is the time to apply! This nonpartisan program is designed to give young people the opportunity to learn about policy making, civic engagement, and public service. Council participants will learn about our district, Congress, and the world at large. Students also get professional development opportunities, including seminars on resumes, cover letters, and informational interviews. This year’s Council will begin in June and meet through August. All young people living in or attending school in Minnesota’s Third Congressional District who will be in grades 9 through 12 as of September of 2021 are invited to apply. Applications are due by Sunday, May 30. You can find the form and submission instructions here.

Resources For You

My team and I are here to serve every person and every corner of our community. I want to make sure you have the resources you need to succeed:

Keep the faith and keep in touch, 

Rep. Phillips Signautre

Dean Phillips 
Member of Congress