Congress is back in session, which means we are back with another Maryland Minute! This week, I took to the House Floor to recognize award-winning environmentalist and Chesapeake Bay champion, Dr. Walter Boynton.

You’ve probably seen in the headlines that Congress is heading into a “lame duck” period. But what the 🦆 does that actually mean? Learn more about the lame duck and what Congress is actually doing in today’s episode of Sarah Explains It All:

A Democratic agenda that relentlessly delivers on affordability and accountability must be pro-worker.

First, it was Signalgate and the disclosure of sensitive, private, operational information in an unapproved, unsecure network that put our servicemembers in harm's way. Then, it was the extrajudicial killings of 244 people across 72 boat strikes in the Caribbean and East Pacific.

This Veterans Day - and before heading to Washington for votes - I started my morning with neighbors at the inaugural Eastport Veterans Park Ceremony. It was a touching tribute that honored and recognized the brave men and women who selflessly answered the call to serve.

🇺🇲 Each year on Veterans Day, we recognize the countless sacrifices made by the brave men and women who defended the country we love and call home. As the daughter and granddaughter of Army, Navy, and Air Force Veterans, I’ve seen firsthand the sacrifice of our servicemembers and their families.

One belated celebration and truly awe-inspiring moment: the 90th birthday of my friend and mentor, Senator Barbara Mikulski. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the brave women – like Senator Mikulski – who paved the way at a time when women had to wear pants on the Senate floor.

The MD Transit Authority will be offering free rides to all veterans, servicemembers, and U.S. National Guard and Reservists tomorrow, Wednesday, November 11th, in honor of Veterans Day. Just show a valid military ID and enjoy a no-cost ride as a small token of appreciation – happy Veterans Day!

On US Marine Corps’ 251st birthday, we honor our Marines whose determination, bravery, and innovation have been crucial to defending and serving our country throughout our nation’s history. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I am proud to deliver for and honor all of our Marines.

To date, #TeamElfreth has closed over 3,450 constituent cases and returned over $4.8 million directly to our neighbors! One of those neighbors, Frederick from Carvel Beach, had an issue with his retirement application while on base, and our team was able to step in and swiftly resolve his issue!

Secretary Hegseth’s culture wars have no place in our military. The current draft of the annual defense bill would give the Secretary undue power to decide when, where, and if women in the armed forces are assigned.

🇺🇲 Today, I joined neighbors in Howard County for the 12th annual Veterans Day Parade to honor our veterans, active duty servicemembers, and military families.

🪔 Happy Diwali, #MD03! Diwali symbolizes renewal, prosperity, and a reminder that light overcomes even the darkest moments. For all those who celebrate, I hope your day is filled with sweets, love, and lots of light.

Increasing mental health support, addressing critical vacancies at the VA, passing the Major Richard Star Act: just a few of the issues discussed at yesterday's veterans roundtable.

Tearing apart families. Mass deportations. No due process. 
That is what the President rewards.    But this week, the American people denounced President Trump and Stephen Miller’s extreme and cruel agenda. We’ll continue to do the same in the next Congress - with gavels and subpoena power.

Stephen Miller will replace Susie Wiles as White House chief of staff

“I want to thank her for her service as Chief of Staff — She has done a great job!” Trump said.

politico.com

America’s veterans put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms – the least we can do is protect their freedom to access the care they have earned and deserve.

From food banks to health centers, our volunteer organizations are the backbone of our communities. Now, it’s easier than ever to get involved thanks to JustServe – a free website and app that connects these local organizations to volunteers.

As a proud member of the @equality.house.gov, I’ve fought to protect and expand the rights of the LGBTQ+ community since day one – restoring crucial 988 mental health services, defeating anti-trans amendments in this year’s defense bill, and more.

As we get a new wave of incoming members of Congress, I’ve been reflecting on one piece of advice I received when getting my start: stay curious. Stay curious about the institution. Stay curious about your colleagues. Stay curious on the issues.

Pretty cool moment: this week, I joined MARAD & Bridgedeck (MMP) in presenting the Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal to Captain Mecurio & the crew aboard the Alliance Fairfax, which was the first U.S.-flagged merchant vessels to safely clear the Strait of Hormuz after being stranded for months.

Happy HoCo Pride! This year’s theme of “Exist, Persist, Love” reminds us of the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community and the ongoing fight for equal rights. Especially with the culture wars and division coming out of Washington, I’m always proud to see Howard County come together and lead the way.

🇺🇸 It remains the honor of my life to represent you in the halls of Congress. From affordability to accountability, there is lots of work ahead of us. We cannot go back to a Congress of the past — we must relentlessly deliver for the American people.

☕🗳️☀️The Election Day tradition of voting first thing in the morning is going strong – and Eric joined in this year! If you haven’t already, make sure you cast your ballot before 8:00 PM today!

Everyone in our country should be able to practice their faith without fear – it’s what our Founders envisioned. The hateful threat of violence made against the Sri Venkateswara Swami Hindu temple is part of the rising culture of religious intolerance coming out of Washington, & it must be stopped.

After visiting every major military installation in Maryland during my first year on the Armed Services Committee, I learned something true of most things in our state: these investments don’t happen by accident. It’s thanks to #TeamMaryland & the hundreds of thousands of servicemembers & civilians.

During the Revolutionary War, over 150 Black Marylanders enlisted and served in the Continental Army – fighting for our nation’s independence, even while some still did not have their own freedom.

🚆 Tomorrow is Election Day, Marylanders, so make sure you have a plan to get to the polls! The Maryland Transit Authority is offering free transit rides to help our neighbors participate in our great democratic experiment. Take advantage of a no-cost trip tomorrow and make your voice heard!

Over the past 22 months, we’ve seen the Trump Administration threaten our state and local partners, attempt to disenfranchise millions of voters through the SAVE Act, and sow doubt and distrust in our free and fair elections.

Open enrollment is here, Marylanders! Make sure to review your coverage and choose a plan that works for you. In Congress, I promise to do my part to expand access to quality, affordable care and reverse the cuts in the President’s Big Ugly Law.

On November 1, 1864, Maryland became the first state south of the Mason-Dixon line to abolish slavery by a vote of the people. Today, we reflect on this pivotal day in our history and the bravery of those who fought to make freedom a reality.