St. Paul Reporter

Rep. Betty McCollum, a long-serving member of the U.S. Congress representing Minnesota's 4th district, has recently shared her views on significant global and national issues through social media posts. Her comments reflect her engagement with international religious events, geopolitical concerns, and domestic consumer safety matters.

On May 8, 2025, McCollum remarked on the election of Pope Leo XIV, highlighting its significance as he is "the first American pope." She noted that Catholics and people of faith globally are inspired by his message of peace to foster love and build bridges among neighbors. "Catholics and people of faith all around the world welcome the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, whose message of peace inspires us to build bridges and show love to our neighbors."

Later that day, McCollum addressed President Trump's proposed strategy for Ukraine in a post dated May 8, 2025. She expressed concerns about what she described as a "pressure plan" that would lead to a "false peace." McCollum warned against forcing Ukraine into a peace agreement under terms favorable to Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggesting it could have detrimental effects on the security interests of Ukraine, Europe, and the United States. "President Trump's pressure plan for Ukraine would bring false peace. This week in @StribOpinion, I explain why forcing Ukraine into a peace deal on Putin’s terms would have serious consequences for the national security of Ukraine, Europe, and the U.S."

On May 9, 2025, McCollum turned her attention to domestic issues related to consumer protection. She criticized efforts to reduce resources for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), arguing that such actions would limit tools necessary to prevent toxic health threats to consumers. Highlighting her collaboration with Saint Paul’s Beautywell Project, she underscored her commitment to raising awareness about harmful substances used in skin lightening products. "Gutting the FDA will mean fewer tools to prevent toxic health threats to consumers. Consumers deserve protections, which is why I’ve worked with Saint Paul’s Beautywell Project to highlight harmful poisons used in skin lighteners and other products."

Rep. Betty McCollum has been serving in Congress since replacing Bruce Vento in 2001 after previously serving in the Minnesota House of Representatives from 1993 until her congressional tenure began.