1. United States
2. Iowa
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep disappointment and moral outrage over your vote in favor of the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill.” This legislation, beyond its political branding, delivers real harm to low-income Iowans, and it does so in ways that stand in direct opposition to the teachings of Jesus Christ. The bill completely eliminates federal funding for SNAP-Ed, stripping Iowa of $3.1 million that would have gone toward teaching healthy meal preparation to children, seniors, and struggling families, and helping food pantries provide better nutrition. It also slashes SNAP benefits, cuts Medicaid, and adds work requirements that will leave many without food or healthcare. These are not abstract policy moves—they will lead to empty stomachs and preventable suffering in all 99 counties of Iowa, from our largest cities to our smallest towns. As a Christian, I cannot reconcile these choices with the clear commands of Scripture. Jesus said in Matthew 25:35, “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink…” He warned in verse 45 that neglecting “the least of these” is the same as neglecting Him. The prophet Isaiah declared that the true fast God desires is “to share your bread with the hungry.” The Apostle James reminded us that faith without works is dead, and that we show our faith through acts of mercy. Your vote to cut food programs is not just bad policy—it is a rejection of these Biblical imperatives. A government that claims to serve “under God” cannot, in good conscience, turn its back on the hungry and vulnerable. Many churches and ministries across Iowa pour their resources into feeding programs, but their efforts cannot fill the gap left when our leaders deliberately dismantle proven, life-sustaining programs. I urge you to repent of this decision by working to restore SNAP-Ed funding, protect SNAP and Medicaid, and reject any future legislation that harms the poor. Political victories mean nothing if they come at the cost of our moral witness and obedience to Christ’s call to care for “the least of these.” In the end, you will be judged not by party loyalty, but by whether you acted with compassion and justice. I pray you choose to stand on the side of mercy.