Representative John Garamendi, who serves California’s 8th district in the U.S. Congress, used his social media platform to address ongoing issues regarding congressional procedures and healthcare costs.
On October 16, 2025, Garamendi commented on the ability of the Speaker of the House to swear in members outside of session, stating: “This is a lie. The Speaker can swear her in today just like he did with Reps. Fine, Patronis and Walkinshaw when Congress was out of session. @SpeakerJohnson stop running from the Epstein files, do your job, and swear her in.”
The following day, amid a government shutdown, Garamendi addressed efforts to resolve the impasse: “I’m back in DC this week even during the government shut down. It only takes one paragraph in a bill to end this: extend the ACA subsidies. Democrats are ready to work across the aisle to reopen the government and lower health care costs for the American people.” This statement highlighted legislative proposals focused on extending Affordable Care Act subsidies as a solution.
Later that same day, Garamendi turned attention to rising health insurance premiums by sharing a constituent’s experience: “The reality is that people’s health insurance premiums are skyrocketing. Today, a constituent of mine checked their health insurance bill. It shot up to $2,210.97 per month. @SpeakerJohnson can stop this.”
John Garamendi has served in Congress since 2009 after succeeding Ellen Tauscher and previously held roles in both chambers of California’s state legislature (source: biographical background). Born in Camp Blanding, Florida in 1945 and currently residing in Walnut Grove at age 78, Garamendi holds degrees from UC Berkeley and Harvard University.
