WINONA, Minn. – Members of Congress elected to represent citizens along the Upper Mississippi, almost all Republicans, are silent aboutTrump budget cuts on river agencies. In preparing an exhaustive examination of the cuts, the Winona-based magazine Big River sought comments from:
> Brad Finstad, MN-1, a Republican from New Ulm.
> Ashley Hinson, IA-2, a Republican from Marion.
> Darin LaHood, IL-16a, a Republican from Peoria.
> Marianette Miller-Meeks, IA-1, a Republican from Marion.
> Eric Sorensen, IL-17, a Democrat from Moine.
> Derrick Van Orden, WI-3, a Republican from Prairie du Chien.
The Big River queries went unanswered. The Republicans all have records of avoiding criticism of Trump for fear he will retaliate and undermine their 2026 re-election campaigns. Theit silence is cowardly, say Democrats. The criticism is that the Republicans have given priority to Trump allegiance rather than risk their political careers and to hell with constituent interests.
Why silence from Washingtin? Millions of dollrs in federal fuding disappearing from Upper Mississippi wildlife, conservairon and public projects. Thank you, Donald Trump.
Pages 16-19, 47.