Monterey Times

Representative Jimmy Panetta, serving California's 19th district, voiced concerns via social media regarding a range of policy issues impacting his constituents. On April 4, 2025, Panetta addressed topics including federal support for food banks, economic ramifications of tariffs, and the integrity of social programs during town hall meetings.

In a tweet on April 4, 2025, Panetta emphasized the importance of federal aid for food banks, stating,"California’s food banks rely on federal programs to keep shelves stocked and families fed. Abruptly cutting off that support hurts our communities. That’s why I led lawmakers in calling on USDA to restore these critical programs now." He underlined the negative impact that halting support could have on communities.

Later that day, Panetta criticized President Trump's tariff policies in a tweet posted on April 4, 2025, stating, "President Trump’s tariffs will hit Californians where it hurts, higher prices on cars, groceries, and prescription drugs while slamming our agriculture and small businesses. Instead of strengthening our economy, these reckless policies will make it harder for families to afford." He expressed concern over the adverse economic effects tariffs could impose on Californians.

In another engagement on April 4, 2025, Panetta referenced ongoing town halls and shared, "My packed town halls across CA-19 are a small example of how people are feeling about Social Security, Medicare & Medicaid. The admin’s attempts to dismantle these programs are real. My call to action is for unity, legislation, investigation, litigation, communication, and" underscoring the community's apprehensions regarding potential changes to key social programs. Panetta expressed a call to action aimed towards addressing these challenges.