New House members on their top priorities: "Cannot be afraid to do big things"

Freshly elected House members have arrived in Washington D.C. for orientation, with both Democrats and Republicans expressing their top priorities: lowering the cost of living for Americans. Democratic freshman lawmakers Scott Wiener of California's 11th Congressional District, and Adrian Boafo of Maryland's 5th Congressional District, both emphasized the importance of addressing affordability issues, particularly for federal workers and those affected by the housing market.

Meanwhile, Republican new member Chris Stigall of Missouri's 6th Congressional District acknowledged the need to reconnect with constituents and craft a message that resonates with the American people's needs.

Both parties acknowledged the need to hold the outgoing administration accountable, with Democratic Rep. Luke Bronin of Connecticut's 1st Congressional District advocating for bold decisions to tackle deeply broken issues like healthcare, housing, and electricity prices. Meanwhile, GOP Rep.-elect Charlie Hatcher of Tennessee's 5th Congressional District highlighted diesel fuel prices as a critical concern, as they affect farmers, transportation, logistics, and grocery prices.

In response to the significant shift in power to Democrats, the Congressional Progressive Caucus welcomed at least 25 new progressive members-elect, with Chair Greg Casar announcing the caucus' priorities to take on corruption, affordability, and ending endless wars. Rep.-elect Jon Bonck of Texas' 38th Congressional District also expressed willingness to engage in bipartisan efforts to address shared interests such as housing affordability, deregulation, and reducing government intervention in healthcare.