Schakowsky Statement on Government Funding Vote

WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) released the following statement on the vote to fund the government:

"Today, after 43 days, the federal government is reopening. Make no mistake about it, this was a crisis manufactured entirely by the Republican Party. Republicans control the entire federal government, the Presidency, the Senate, and the House. For weeks, the American people paid the price for their dysfunction. Federal workers missed paychecks, families faced delays in lifesaving services, millions of people were left without the means to put food on the table, and small businesses suffered.

"After dragging our nation through an avoidable shutdown, Republicans have doubled down on their cruel agenda: ripping health care away from 17 million Americans and dooming millions more to massive increases in health insurance prices, all to give tax breaks to their billionaire donors. I voted NO because this reopening deal does nothing to undo the damage Republicans have inflicted on working families, seniors, and children. Instead of protecting affordable health care, this bill locks in harmful cuts that weaken Medicaid, threaten community health centers, and put millions at risk of actually losing care.

"From the start of this shutdown, Democrats have fought to keep the government open and save lives by protecting access to health care, food assistance, education, and disaster relief. We stood united for a bipartisan, responsible budget that strengthens Medicare, expands telehealth, and makes health care more affordable for everyone. Congressional Republicans chose cruelty over compassion.

"We need a government that works for everyone, not just the wealthy and well-connected. I will not stop until every American has access to quality, affordable health care. This fight is not over."

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