1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

Protecting Our Mountain Communities Interest Form (https://www.mobilize.us/wethefighters/?event_type=31) Details What’s Coming After November? You’ve likely heard that things are settling down, but a quiet change in the federal budget is timed to trigger right after the 2026 election. Major shifts in funding for our local services were signed into law with a "delayed start"—meaning the impact was pushed back until the votes are counted. In NC-11 alone, over 189,000 neighbors are standing on the edge of this budget cliff, vulnerable to the cuts. Why Is This Happening Now? The new budget rules were designed with a split timeline. To avoid an outcry before the election, the effective dates for the deepest cuts to healthcare, local schools, and food programs are set for late 2026. The goal was to keep things quiet until the election season is over. We believe you deserve to know the truth before you head to the polls. How This Hits Home in WNC Healthcare Costs: While things seem stable now, more than 46,000 people in our mountain counties are at risk of losing their coverage under the ACA or Medicaid. Many thousands more will see their monthly premiums spike. This affects retirees and working families alike. Putting Food on the Table: Changes to grocery assistance (SNAP) are slated to reduce support for WNC families. If you or your grandkids rely on these programs, the "grace period" is ending soon. Our Local Schools: New rules are redirecting funds away from our rural schools and making it harder for local kids to afford technical college or university. Neighbors Looking Out for Neighbors We aren't a political party. We are a group of WNC residents—farmers, small business owners, workers, and parents—who believe that our families come before Washington’s budget games. We want to ensure that whoever represents us understands that these cuts are a "no-go" for our community. Join the Local Effort Don’t get caught off guard. Connect with a neighbor today to learn how these specific budget dates will affect your household and how we can stand together to protect WNC. Click on the text boxes under your signup info to the right: • Get the "Budget Cliff" Facts: A local neighbor will call you to explain the specific dates these cuts start. • Join the Watchlist: Get updates on community meetings in your county to hold decision-makers accountable. • Help the Community: Volunteer to help us check in on other neighbors across the 11th District.