1. United States
2. Utah
3. Letter

I am writing to express my anger and frustration over the ongoing government shutdown and its devastating impact on critical programs that millions of Americans rely on. This shutdown is not just a political stalemate; it's a direct threat to the health and well-being of your constituents. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is on the brink of collapse. Several states, including Texas and Pennsylvania, have announced they will be forced to suspend SNAP benefits starting November 1st if the shutdown continues. This will leave approximately 42 million low-income Americans without access to essential food assistance. Texas will halt all November SNAP benefits if the shutdown persists past October 27th, and Pennsylvania won't be able to distribute benefits at all. This is not a hypothetical crisis – it's an imminent disaster for millions of families who depend on this program for their basic nutritional needs. Furthermore, I am outraged by your failure to extend the Affordable Care Act (ACA) credits as part of the negotiations. This decision is nothing short of a frivolous attempt to hold the American people hostage. The ACA has provided crucial health coverage to millions, and the expiration of these credits will result in skyrocketing premiums for many families, potentially forcing them to forgo necessary medical care. The consequences of your inaction are severe and far-reaching. SNAP has already faced significant cuts, with an estimated $186 billion reduction over 10 years in recent legislation. Now, the acting head of SNAP warns that there will be insufficient funds to pay full November benefits if the shutdown continues. Similarly, the failure to extend ACA credits will leave countless Americans vulnerable to financial ruin due to medical expenses. I demand that you take immediate action to end this shutdown, protect SNAP benefits, and extend the ACA credits. These are not bargaining chips – they are lifelines for millions of Americans. Your constituents are counting on you to prioritize their health and food security over partisan politics. Work across the aisle to resolve this crisis now. The clock is ticking, and the consequences of further delay are unacceptable. Your actions in the coming days will demonstrate whether you truly represent the interests of all your constituents or if you're willing to sacrifice their well-being for political gain. Act now – there's no more time to waste.