Post-Shutdown Analysis: We Need a Party That Prioritizes The Urgent Needs of Working People

The recent government shutdown was unacceptable. It exploited the paychecks of hundreds of thousands of workers and jeopardized the food benefits of vulnerable families—none of whom consented to such tactics. Federal workers' labor unions had long been calling for an immediate end to the shutdown, highlighting the urgency of this issue.

Discussions with friends who rely on SNAP reinforced a prevailing sentiment: they did not want the shutdown to continue as a bargaining chip in political negotiations over ACA subsidies, which were irrelevant to their immediate struggles.

We must advocate for reforms that ensure shutdowns are a thing of the past. Automatic budget and appropriations renewals must be instituted if no agreement is reached—people's lives should never be treated as bargaining chips.

It’s deeply concerning that many Democrats were prepared to end the shutdown early, yet were instructed by leadership to hold off until November—likely for electoral advantage. While this may have benefited them in the short term, it raises serious ethical questions, resembling collective punishment and demonstrating a blatant disregard for those affected.

Furthermore, we must address the failures of the Affordable Care Act. The ongoing debate over subsidies, initially introduced during COVID and expiring this year, presents a critical issue: why are we continuing to invest in a flawed private health insurance system? It is time to shift towards a single-payer healthcare model that guarantees coverage for all and can save our nation hundreds of billions of dollars per year.

The fact that SNAP benefits can be manipulated as political leverage is alarming. Current rules prevent states from contributing to SNAP during federal funding lapses, a situation that demands urgent reform. States should have the authority to support their citizens without fear of financial penalties.

While many seek to resist Donald Trump, using the lives of ordinary people as pawns is not the solution. If sacrifices must be made, those advocating for them should bear the burden themselves.

Both the Democratic and Republican parties effectively abandoned tens of millions of Americans, mirroring their indifference toward the plight of Palestinians. This crisis will not be forgotten, and blame will rightfully be directed at both parties.

With the Democratic Party facing historically low approval ratings, the aftermath of this shutdown is likely to worsen that situation. Genuine opposition to Trump and MAGA requires a party that prioritizes the needs of the people—ensuring food security and healthcare without being beholden to corporate or foreign interests. Unfortunately, the current Democratic Party fails to meet this standard, and I see no pathway for meaningful reform within it.

This is why I am running for Congress as a Green. It is time for us to rally around an alternative political party that truly serves the interests of the people.