1. United States
2. Va.
3. Letter

I'm writing to you today about a potential government shutdown. I have seen worrying reports that Democrats are not aligned in their willingness to shut down the government as a way to extract concessions regarding Elon Musk, DOGE, the unconstitutional and illegal ransacking of entire agencies, and more. While a government shutdown should never be taken lightly, I would hope that all Congressional Democrats understand that we are in unprecedented, dangerous times and we must be willing to do whatever it takes to slow the MAGA agenda. The President, Elon Musk, DOGE, and Cabinet appointees are making decisions that will harm all Americans. In the midst of a national crisis, no Democrat should reject using the leverage a potential government shutdown provides. That is why I ask that you work with your colleagues to identify a bold, audacious strategy that meets the seriousness of this moment. I understand that being in the minority makes pushing back difficult. And yet I have little patience for party leadership reminding us of what they can't and won't do. This is something you can do. That is why I ask that you seriously consider your position on a government shutdown and take every step available to stall the MAGA agenda and show the voters that you're in this fight with us.