SE Kansas City News

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, who has represented Missouri’s 5th district in the U.S. Congress since 2005, used social media to comment on federal housing policy, diplomacy efforts in his community, and recent statements regarding election oversight.

On August 20, 2025, Cleaver criticized proposed changes to the HUD-VASH program under the Trump administration, stating: "HUD-VASH cut veteran homelessness nearly in half. Now Trump wants to rip it apart – punishing veterans by making housing a ‘reward’ instead of a right.

Congress made it clear: we fund Housing First because it works. We won’t let this admin turn its back on those who served," he posted.

Later that day, Cleaver highlighted local diplomatic initiatives following a meeting with Global Ties KC. On August 20, 2025 he wrote: "Grateful to meet with @globaltieskc! Their work building connections with our international neighbors shows the power of diplomacy at the community level.

In a time of global challenges, people-to-people exchange is more important than ever and it was an honor to hear about the".

The following day, Cleaver referenced remarks attributed to former President Trump concerning states' roles in federal elections. On August 21, 2025 he posted: "Remember, the States are merely an ‘agent’ for the Federal Government in counting and tabulating the votes, the president wrote on Truth Social. “They must do what the Federal Government, as represented by the President of the United States, tells them, FOR THE GOOD OF OUR".

Cleaver’s comments reflect ongoing debates over federal policies affecting veterans and election procedures. As background, Rep. Emanuel Cleaver succeeded Karen McCarthy in Congress in 2005 and continues to serve Missouri’s 5th district (source: House.gov). Born in Waxahachie, Texas in 1944 and currently residing in Kansas City, Cleaver graduated from Prairie View A&M University with a BS degree in 1972.