February 12, 2025 – Washington, D.C.
During this morning’s House floor session, Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-OH) delivered a powerful speech addressing two critical issues: the war in Ukraine and the ongoing economic struggles facing American families. She urged Congress and the administration to take decisive action to support Ukraine against Russia while also tackling rising inflation, unaffordable housing, and the skyrocketing costs of basic necessities.
Defending Ukraine: “The Scrimmage Line for Liberty”
Kaptur reaffirmed her unwavering support for Ukraine, calling it “the scrimmage line for liberty on the continent of Europe”. She condemned Russia’s 11-year war of aggression, emphasizing that Ukraine has been fighting for its survival since 2014 following Putin’s illegal invasion of Crimea.
- She noted that hundreds of thousands of innocent people have died in the conflict.
- The U.S. must continue working with NATO and allied nations to push Russia back within its borders.
- Kaptur welcomed today’s international meeting, where U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and U.S. allies discussed a potential path to ending the war.
“The international community must safeguard Ukraine’s borders, and those negotiations are yet to come.”
She expressed hope that a negotiated peace deal could be reached, but made clear that the U.S. must stand firm in supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty.
The Economic Reality: Rising Costs Are Squeezing Working Americans
Kaptur then shifted her focus to the economic challenges facing her constituents in Ohio and across the country, highlighting the financial hardships that have made everyday life increasingly unaffordable.
1. Inflation and Rising Costs
- The Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased unexpectedly by 3% last month, worsening the financial pressure on American families.
- Grocery prices continue to surge, with eggs in Ohio now costing between $6.66 and $8 per dozen.
- Gas prices have surpassed $3 per gallon, straining household budgets.
- Property taxes are skyrocketing, making homeownership more difficult for middle-class families and seniors.
“People aren’t just feeling economic pressure, they’re being crushed by it.”
2. Healthcare and Pharmacy Closures
- While some prescription drug prices were lowered under previous Democratic legislation, millions still struggle to afford essential medications.
- Major pharmacy chains are shutting down, leaving entire communities without access to life-saving prescriptions.
- Kaptur criticized Congress for failing to hold hearings on this crisis, demanding action to ensure people can fill their prescriptions without traveling miles away.
“Where are people supposed to go to fill their prescriptions? Why are there no hearings on that here in Congress?”
3. Housing Costs and Financial Struggles
- Rents keep rising, forcing families and seniors to downsize or leave communities they’ve lived in for decades.
- Consumer fraud, credit card scams, and financial exploitation are on the rise, targeting Americans who are already struggling.
- More people are resorting to gambling, taking financial risks they can’t afford just to try and get ahead.
“My district is no stranger to lottery tickets, scratch-offs, casinos. The wheels just turn faster. People taking chances. And in the last election, that’s exactly what they did.”
4. Higher Education Costs Are Driving Young Americans Away
- College tuition is becoming unaffordable for most American families, limiting opportunities for the next generation.
- Kaptur warned that if young people cannot afford to learn, the country’s economic future is in jeopardy.
“If our young people can’t afford to go to school and learn, what does that imply for the future of this country?”
A Call for Congressional Action
Rep. Kaptur urged Congress and the new administration to prioritize relief for working Americans, not just corporate interests. She called on lawmakers to:
✅ Continue supporting Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty
✅ Address inflation and the rising cost of basic goods
✅ Investigate pharmacy closures and ensure access to prescription drugs
✅ Reduce housing and property tax burdens for families and seniors
✅ Expand access to affordable higher education
“Too many families are overwhelmed with the cost of living. Congress needs to wake up and start fighting for them.”
What’s Next?
As budget negotiations continue in Congress, expect increased debate over economic policies that could help—or further burden—working Americans.
- Will Congress act to address inflation and the housing crisis?
- How will lawmakers respond to Ukraine’s calls for continued U.S. support?
- Will there be bipartisan efforts to tackle pharmacy closures and prescription drug costs?
Kaptur’s remarks underscore the urgency of these challenges and set the stage for further policy debates in the weeks ahead.
Bills at the Hill 
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