Rep. Pramila Jayapal, a U.S. Congresswoman representing Washington’s 7th district since 2017, posted a series of statements on May 1, 2026, addressing immigration enforcement deaths, labor and immigrant rights, and healthcare coverage.
In her first post at 14:22 UTC, Jayapal wrote: “This morning I was notified of another death in ICE custody — the 48th death since Trump returned to office. There must be urgent accountability and oversight, and Congress must take action to dismantle ICE and CBP.”
Later that day at 15:03 UTC, she promoted a new podcast episode focused on labor and immigrant issues: “NEW POD: I sat down with General President of LIUNA Brent Booker to talk about the intersection of labor and immigrant rights, and how Trump’s attacks on TPS have impacted their union members. Watch here or listen wherever you get your podcasts!”
At 16:56 UTC, Jayapal addressed healthcare access following policy changes by Congressional Republicans: “Since Republicans refused to extend the ACA tax credits, millions of Americans have been forced to go without coverage as their premiums have skyrocketed. Health care is a human right. Republicans are failing the American people.”
Jayapal has represented Washington’s 7th District in Congress since replacing Jim McDermott in 2017. She previously served in the Washington State Senate from 2014 to 2016. Born in Chennai in 1965, she resides in Seattle and holds degrees from Georgetown University (BA) and Northwestern University.
