Skip to Content

Newsletters

This is how we’re fighting back

Rep. Brittany Pettersen

Over the last few months, my office has received thousands of calls, letters, and emails from Coloradans who are incredibly concerned by the actions of the Trump administration. This will be the first of what will be regular updates focused on the work we’re doing to fight back against the Trump Administration.

In under just six months, the Trump administration has exceeded its war powers authority, dismantled our federal government, and thrown our economy into chaos. Not only that, he’s passed a budget that will strip health care from millions of Americans and take food off the plates of seniors, veterans, moms, and those who need our help most.

We are fighting back – in Congress, in the courts, and in our community.

I want you to know that I am fighting back against these horrific abuses of power. I’ll never stop showing up and standing up for Colorado families. Below is a little bit more on what I’m doing here in Congress.

Recently, President Trump completely circumvented Congress, endangered American servicemembers and diplomats in the region, and put our national security at risk when he ordered military strikes on Iran.

That’s why I joined two War Powers resolutions reaffirming that only Congress – as outlined in the Constitution – has the authority to declare war, while ensuring the U.S. retains the ability to defend itself from an imminent threat. Only Congress has the power to authorize war, not a single person.

🗳In Congress

Democrats hold a minority in Congress. While we are not in power, we’re not powerless.

Here’s what we can do as the party not in the majority:

  • Introduce and vote on legislation: I’ve helped introduce nearly 30 bills to stop Trump and hold this administration accountable for dismantling our federal workforce and pushing reckless tariffs. During the budget negotiations in the House, I offered 11 amendments to protect access to Medicaid for single moms, people with disabilities, and those struggling with addiction.Not a single Republican supported these or the more than 500 amendments Democrats introduced.
  • Sign discharge petitions:A discharge petition is a procedural tool that the party in the minority can use to force a vote on legislation that Leadership refuses to consider. We need 218 signatures in order to force a vote which means only a few Republicans need to join us. I signed a petition to force a vote on legislation that would stop Republicans from advancing cuts to health care and food assistance.
  • Call on the Trump administration:In Congress, we have the ability to send requests to the administration, urging them to take action. I’ve joined 100+ letters, calling on Trump and his administration to protect access to health care and food assistance and reinstate federal workers who oversee critical wildfire prevention efforts.

🏛In the Courts

We’re taking to the courts to put checks in place on this administration – and we’re winning. As members of Congress, we have the ability to join “amicus briefs.” These are legal moves that we have the power to shape cases by helping courts consider the broader implications of decisions. I’ve joined 9 amicus briefs to stop Trump from dismantling federal agencies like USAID, the Department of Education, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).

Trump keeps facing legal defeats as Americans nationwide push back against his unlawful actions. 264 lawsuits have been filed challenging his agenda, and we’re going to keep filing more.

📣In Our Community

One of the most important parts of my job is hearing directly from you – especially right now. That’s why I’ve hosted 8 town halls across our district this year alone. I plan to keep showing up and listening to your concerns. Your priorities guide my work in Congress.

In the weeks ahead, here’s what you can expect to hear directly from me:

🏛️ Legislative Highlights: Key votes, committee work, and what’s happening in DC and at home in Colorado.

📍District Updates: Where and how I’m showing up to listen to you, the impact of federal policy on our community, and highlights from our casework team.

🧭 Accountability Moves: Discharge petitions, amicus briefs, and oversight tools in action.

Here’s what you can do:

  • Share your story with me by sending an email or calling my office at (303) 274-7944.
  • Reach out to us if you have questions.
  • Stay engaged with your city, county, and state government to get updates on what they are doing to protect you from Trump’s harmful policies.

Until next time, keep speaking out and standing up. I will do the same. And be sure you’re following me on Instagram,Facebook,Bluesky, and X.

Thanks for reading,

 
Brittany Pettersen Signature
Brittany Pettersen