SE Kansas City News

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, who has represented Missouri’s 5th district in the U.S. Congress since 2005, recently used his social media platform to address key legislative and community issues.

On July 21, 2025, Cleaver wrote about funding for public broadcasters: "Public broadcasters like PBS and NPR play a pivotal role in communities across #MO05. While Republicans recently voted to slash funding for these local stations, I’ll keep fighting to ensure they can continue serving the Missourians who depend on them!"

Later that day, Cleaver turned his attention to health policy and announced new legislation: "When making policy decisions that impact the health of Americans, it's essential we utilize independent experts who are following the most rigorous scientific protocols to obtain their data. That’s why I’m introducing the Protect Our TEETH Act." In a follow-up post he added: "The Protect Our TEETH Act will ensure the federal government is using the best evidence available when updating public health guidance regarding fluoridation, upholding the integrity of our public health system and protecting the dental health of families across the country."

Cleaver’s advocacy comes amid ongoing debates over funding for public broadcasting and standards for public health guidance. Born in Waxahachie, Texas in 1944 and now residing in Kansas City, Cleaver graduated from Prairie View A&M University in 1972 with a Bachelor of Science degree. He succeeded Karen McCarthy as representative of Missouri's 5th district in 2005.