SE Kansas City News

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, who represents Missouri’s 5th district in the U.S. Congress, posted a series of updates on August 15, 2025, addressing economic and healthcare challenges facing his constituents.

In a tweet at 15:04 UTC, Cleaver cited recent increases in consumer costs: “Wholesale food prices rose 1.4% from June, led by a 38.9% surge in vegetable prices. The price of home electronic equipment gained 5% from June.” This statement comes amid broader concerns about inflation and its impact on American households.

Later that day at 16:18 UTC, Cleaver discussed legislative efforts to improve housing access for vulnerable populations: “The bill aims to make it more accessible and affordable to secure a home for seniors, veterans and low-income families in rural areas.” He added, “Every American deserves safe, stable, and affordable housing. I’ll keep fighting to make that a reality.”

At 18:49 UTC the same day, Cleaver addressed healthcare issues in Missouri: “Missouri is one of the hardest-hit states in the country. Since 2014, 18 hospitals have closed statewide, including at least 12 in rural counties” and warned that “when Republicans’ historic cuts to Medicaid go into effect, this crisis will only worsen.”

Cleaver has served as Missouri’s representative since replacing Karen McCarthy in Congress in 2005. Born in Waxahachie, Texas in 1944 and currently residing in Kansas City, he graduated from Prairie View A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1972.

Hospital closures have posed significant challenges for rural communities across Missouri over the past decade—a trend some observers attribute to changes or reductions in federal health funding.