Use the Shutdown to Protect Democracy, Medicaid, and Equal Education

While we do not want to use a government shutdown for political purposes, we have no choice but to use this moment to stand up for democracy, protect Medicaid, and defend access to equal education. The systematic rollback of fundamental rights cannot go unchecked, and this funding negotiation must be used to reverse harmful policies. Congress Must Demand These Protections Before Any Funding Deal I urge you to refuse any funding agreement that does not include: • Protecting Medicaid: Medicaid is a lifeline for millions of Americans, ensuring access to essential healthcare. Any effort to weaken or defund it must be rejected. • Restoring Voting Rights Protections: The right to vote must be safeguarded against suppression tactics and gerrymandering. • Protecting Access to Equal Education: Every child deserves a fair chance at success. Rolling back DEI policies and restricting education funding disproportionately harm marginalized communities. Congress must defend equal opportunity in schools. • Reinstating DEI Policies: Diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are essential to a fair and representative government and workforce. Their removal is a direct attack on progress. • Holding Billionaires Accountable: Corporate elites, including Elon Musk, must not dictate public policy. Their unchecked influence threatens democracy and national security. • Blocking Authoritarian Overreach: Any executive actions that weaken democracy—whether through limiting transparency, consolidating power, or restricting rights—must be reversed. This Shutdown Must Be a Turning Point We do not want a shutdown, but we cannot let this moment pass without ensuring that democracy, healthcare, and education are protected. Congress must demand that these protections be included as a condition of reopening the government. Thank you for your leadership during this critical time. I urge you to take a firm stand for democracy, healthcare, and equal education.