1. United States
2. Mass.
3. Letter

Once again, Republicans are demanding that the American people trust their word — and once again, that word is worthless. After forty days of chaos and hardship, the so-called “deal” to reopen the government offers nothing but empty promises. The GOP has agreed only to allow a future vote on extending Affordable Care Act premium subsidies — with no guarantee of passage, no commitment from the House, and no enforcement mechanism. That’s not a concession; it’s a con. Republicans caused this shutdown by holding the country hostage — cutting off paychecks, freezing food benefits, halting air travel, and inflicting needless suffering — all to force Democrats to reopen the government on their terms. And what did they offer in return? • A “promise” of a vote they plan to block. • A “guarantee” of back pay that’s already required by law. • A few appropriations bills the Senate is constitutionally obligated to pass anyway. Meanwhile, their budget still guts SNAP, veterans’ programs, and the ACA subsidies that keep tens of millions insured. If those subsidies expire, average premiums will jump 114%, from about $888 to $1,900 a year — pushing millions of working families off coverage entirely. Republicans have perfected a cycle of hostage politics: cause a crisis, promise to fix it later, then walk away once the damage is done. Each time, Americans are left holding the bag. This isn’t compromise — it’s coercion. I’m urging you to reject this deal unless it includes a binding, bipartisan extension of the ACA premium tax credits. Congress must stop rewarding bad-faith tactics with political victories. Every time we give in, it teaches them that cruelty works. The American people are exhausted by performative politics. We deserve leadership that delivers results — not more “trust me” promises from a party that has broken every one. Please hold firm. Protect healthcare, defend workers, and refuse to reopen government on a foundation of lies.