‍ As we complete four weeks of the government shutdown, the American people have witnessed how elected officials are responding to, or ignoring, their most pressing concerns. This should not be a political standoff between two parties. This is a moment for all Americans to assess whether their elected officials are truly prioritizing their needs. No one in the United States should be fearing hunger when there are enough resources to feed everyone.  In a country with the resources the U.S. has, everyone should have access to healthcare. It should not be a luxury that some can afford and others will lack, resulting in disease, death, and suffering. However, here we are. 

With the House now on recess since September 19, Congress has been unable to truly negotiate to pass a resolution that prioritizes the health and well-being of people. At the same time, beginning November 1, 40 million Americans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will not receive their payments, as the Trump administration has denied the use of contingency funds specifically intended to address situations like this. Additionally, families will begin trying to enroll themselves and their families in health insurance, only to find they may not be able to afford it due to increased costs and the end of tax credits. 

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Access to food and to healthcare are human rights. Elected officials and the federal government must work tirelessly to secure them. Failing to do so is irresponsible and harms the most vulnerable members of our communities. While legislators from both parties continue to trade blame and point fingers, it is essential to remember that the SNAP program and tax credits that make health insurance accessible matter in all states and districts. Legislators must work together to ensure that people do not go hungry, extend the enhanced premium tax credits that make insurance affordable, and rescind dangerous cuts to Medicaid programs passed in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The American people are watching whether their elected officials work for them or against them.

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Alianza Americas is a transnational network of migrant-led organizations in the United States. We advocate for social justice, equity and human rights in the Americas.