SHERMAN OAKS, CA — On April 21, residents from across the San Fernando Valley and parts of the Westside of Los Angeles joined Congressman Brad Sherman’s (CA-32) fifth Telephone Town Hall of the year to discuss pressing national and local issues, including the ongoing U.S. war with Iran, rising economic uncertainty, and growing alarm over President Donald Trump’s conduct and fitness for office.
“I appreciate everyone who continues to join our Town Halls, ask thoughtful questions, and stay engaged during one of the most consequential periods our country has faced in years,” said Congressman Sherman. “At a moment when the United States is engaged in a dangerously escalating military conflict abroad, families are worried about rising costs at home, and serious questions are being raised about the stability and future of our democracy, these Town Hall events become even more critical, as they provide an important opportunity to hear directly from constituents, answer their concerns, provide them with accurate updates and ensure their voices are represented in Washington.”
During the event, Congressman Sherman — a senior Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa — provided updates on the rapidly developing war involving Iran and ongoing U.S. military operations in the region. He emphasized Congress’s constitutional responsibility over matters of war and peace and renewed his call for greater transparency and oversight regarding decisions that could further escalate the conflict.
Sherman also addressed mounting concerns regarding President Trump’s erratic behavior, inflammatory rhetoric, and policy decisions that many believe have endangered both national security and democratic institutions. He discussed his support for efforts to clarify and strengthen procedures under the 25th Amendment to ensure that the nation has workable constitutional safeguards when a President is unable to faithfully discharge the duties of the office.
In addition, Sherman spoke about the economic strain facing working families, including higher gas prices, market instability, and broader cost-of-living pressures affecting communities throughout the San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles. He reiterated his call for policies that put American consumers first and shield households from the economic fallout of international conflict.
Constituents raised a wide range of concerns, including the risk of a broader Middle East war, threats to democratic norms, immigration policy, rising household expenses, Social Security and Medicare protections, and the need for accountability in Washington. Sherman addressed questions directly, underscoring his commitment to transparency, constitutional checks and balances, and keeping residents informed during a fast-moving and uncertain time.
Participants also had the opportunity to respond to interactive survey prompts about the issues most important to them.
The results of the survey questions are as follows:
Should Congress pass a law requiring nationwide independent nonpartisan redistricting commissions in all 50 states?
– Yes: 78%
– No: 5%
– Unsure: 17%
In the long run, do you believe the current U.S. military action against Iran will make Iran’s development of a nuclear weapon:
– More likely: 45%
– About as likely as before: 33%
– Less likely: 10%
What impact do you believe Donald Trump’s economic policies have had on the U.S. economy?
– A mostly positive impact: 21%
– No real impact: 11%
– A mostly negative impact: 61%
– Not sure/unsure: 7%