U.S. Congressman Joe Morelle, who represents New York’s 25th district, posted a series of tweets on July 23, 2025, addressing two key legislative issues: the threat posed by the Spotted Lanternfly to Finger Lakes agriculture and the proposed removal of the Space Shuttle Discovery from the Smithsonian Institution’s Air and Space Museum.
In his first post, Morelle wrote, “It’s hard to visit the Finger Lakes without enjoying our amazing vineyards and orchards, but sadly, they’re under serious threat from the Spotted Lanternfly. I’ve introduced legislation to provide support for organizations committed to fighting back against this invasive pest.” (July 23, 2025).
He continued in a follow-up tweet: “I’m grateful to @MikeKellyPA, @RepHoulahan, @RepLangworthy, and all of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for joining together to support this critical bill, and I hope to see it passed and signed into law soon. Read more: https://t.co/pRQ37xRWcL” (July 23, 2025).
Later that day, Morelle addressed another topic related to national heritage preservation. He stated: “The forced removal and relocation of the Space Shuttle Discovery from the Smithsonian Institution’s Air and Space Museum is inappropriate, wasteful, and wrong. Grateful for the bipartisan support of my colleagues on this amendment. https://t.co/dlltwhLjA6” (July 23, 2025).
Joseph Morelle has represented New York’s 25th District in Congress since replacing Louise Slaughter in 2018. Prior to his congressional service, he was a member of the New York State Assembly from 1991 until his election to Congress in 2018. Born in Utica in 1957 and currently residing in Irondequoit at age 65, Morelle graduated with a BA from SUNY Geneseo in 1986.
