Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski

09/19/2026

No student should have to worry about affording lunch.

Free meals are gone for high schoolers at Central and Centennial are now being charged for meals — and for families that are stretched thin, those costs add up. That’s why I’m an original cosponsor of the Universal School Meals Program Act of 2026 because no child should go hungry at school regardless of their parents income.

Superintendent Geovanny Ponce said families should email him if they are above the income cut-off and can't afford school meals.

09/19/2026

If this is true, it is one of the most serious betrayals of trust I've seen in my time in Congress.

The Pentagon's public database says 18 Americans have died in the Iran war. Six U.S. officials are now confirming the real number is at least 22 — possibly 23. That is shocking. It is unacceptable. And there must be full accountability for everyone involved.

Officials who spoke with The Post expressed frustration that the additional loss of life in the Middle East is not reflected in the Defense Department’s casualty database.

09/18/2026

I’m heartbroken to learn of the passing of Staunton Police Officer Ethan Hoese — a Marine Corps veteran, a dedicated officer, and a young father — who was killed in a motorcycle crash on Saturday. My deepest condolences to his family, his fiancée, their infant daughter, and the entire Staunton Police Department.

Police honor Officer Ethan Hoese after deadly motorcycle crash in Jersey County

09/18/2026

Illinois has lost 400 farms in the last year. Tariffs are driving up fuel and fertilizer costs, export markets are closing, and the President is focused on ballrooms. How does any of that make life more affordable for working families?

09/18/2026

A highlight from yesterday’s traveling office hours — sitting down with Staunton Mayor Craig Neuhaus. These conversations with local elected officials are how we make sure the work we do in Washington actually reflects what's happening on the ground in our communities.

09/18/2026

79 years ago today, the United States Air Force was established as its own branch of the military. Since then, American airmen and women have defended our skies and projected strength around the world.

09/17/2026

I’m deeply honored to receive the 2026 Congressional Champion Award from the National Oilseed Processors Association. The oilseed processing industry is a critical part of our agricultural economy — supporting Illinois soybean farmers, processors like ADM in Decatur, and helping keep America's food and fuel supply strong. I’m proud to be your champion in Washington — and committed to keeping up the fight.

09/17/2026

It was great to meet with representatives from U of I Community Credit Union, 1st MidAmerica Credit Union, and the Illinois Credit Union League. Credit unions are the kind of financial institutions that keep communities strong — member-owned, and making sure they have the tools to serve families across Central Illinois is exactly the kind of work that matters to me.

09/17/2026

Yesterday, I delivered the keynote at National Clean Energy Week's Policymaker's Symposium. My message is clear: the path to lower energy costs and a cleaner future runs through grid modernization, expanded LIHEAP, year-round E15, and smarter permitting. A comprehensive energy strategy isn't just good policy. It's what working families need right now.