The news is hard to follow these days — So much changes very rapidly, and depending on where you get your news, you might hear very biased information.
Bottom line: The reason the federal government is shut down is that Republicans and Democrats in Congress have not been able to agree on a resolution to continue the government’s funding.
At stake is affordable health care for millions of Americans as well as the future of rural hospitals.
Republicans in Congress thus far have refused to stave off skyrocketing health insurance premiums and roll back devastating cuts to Medicaid. Families are hurting. Our economy is hurting. And our country is hurting.
Using the most powerful leverage Democrats in Congress currently have, Democrats are demanding that Republicans agree to continue Affordable Care Act tax credits and roll back the Medicaid cuts they passed this summer. If a funding bill is brought forward that includes those critical items, Democrats will vote for it. They want the government to re-open and they want the hurt to end.
The Knox County Democratic Party fully supports the pressure Democrats in Congress are exerting in favor of affordable health care and rural hospitals.
To tell our senators and our congressman to listen to the Democrats’ concerns and address the health care issues, please call:
Senator Jon Husted: (202) 224-3353 or (614) 369-4925
Senator Bernie Moreno: (202) 224-2315 or (614) 469-2083
Congressman Troy Balderson: (202) 225-5355 or (614) 523-2555
Here’s a script you can use:
Hi, my name is [Your Name] and I’m a constituent from [Town/City and Zip Code].
I’m calling to ask [Name of Elected Official] to support a permanent extension of the ACA premium tax credits. Without those credits, the cost of health care premiums will financially devastate the millions of Americans who rely on ACA plans.
In addition, I ask that [Name of Elected Official] vote to roll back the Medicaid cuts passed this summer.
[OPTIONAL: Include a personal story of your experience with the ACA or Medicaid.]
Thank you for your time and consideration.
IF LEAVING VOICEMAIL: Please leave your full street address to ensure your call is tallied.