1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

As a federal employee and member of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), I write to express my concerns about our union's recent stance on ending the government shutdown. While I respect AFGE's intent to alleviate the financial strain on federal workers, I believe their position does not fully represent the complex interests of all members. The current shutdown, now in its 30th day, is undoubtedly causing significant hardship for federal employees and contractors who are missing paychecks. However, I urge you to consider a more balanced approach that addresses both our immediate needs and the long-term interests of the American public. AFGE's endorsement of the Republican-backed funding bill to end the shutdown at any cost overlooks critical issues, particularly the protection of healthcare access for millions of Americans. As a public servant, I believe our duty extends beyond our personal financial concerns to the broader welfare of the citizens we serve. It's worth noting that major labor organizations such as the AFL-CIO, SEIU Local 32BJ, National Education Association, United Steelworkers, AFSCME, and UFCW continue to support maintaining enhanced Obamacare subsidies. Their stance recognizes the importance of accessible healthcare for all Americans, including many federal workers and their families. I respectfully ask that you work towards a resolution that addresses the shutdown while preserving crucial healthcare protections. This approach would demonstrate a commitment to both the immediate needs of federal workers and the long-term health security of all Americans. As your constituent and a dedicated federal employee, I urge you to prioritize a solution that reopens the government without compromising on essential services or healthcare access. Please consider the broader implications of any agreement and strive for a balanced resolution that serves both federal employees and the public we are sworn to serve.