Washington is shut down – again – and Americans have every right to be frustrated. Once again, the dysfunction in D.C. threatens to disrupt lives far beyond the Beltway. And while the political blame game plays out, Kansans are left wondering how this gridlock will affect their families and their livelihoods.
It’s important to know how we got here in the first place. A clean, short-term funding bill — known as a continuing resolution — was introduced by Republicans to keep the government open for seven more weeks.
This measure would have given Congress the time to complete the normal appropriations process, work towards a balanced budget, and hammer out the details of next year’s funding. But to pass in the Senate, the bill needed bipartisan support — at least 60 votes — which means cooperation across the aisle. Unfortunately, that cooperation didn’t transpire.
Like many Americans, I am frustrated that we are in this situation. But while some federal offices may close their doors or scale back operations, I want to be clear with the people of Kansas: my office is open, and we’re still working for you.
Whether you are a farmer navigating USDA programs, a veteran in need of assistance, a federal worker who's been furloughed, a foreigner in need of a Visa, or a senior who relies on Social Security or is signing up for Medicare for the first time, my office is here and ready to help.
Hardworking Kansans shouldn’t have to pay the price for Washington’s dysfunction. The everyday needs of Americans are not put on pause while the government is shut down – and that is why constituent services have always been, and will continue to be, one of my top priorities.
Right now, constituent services are even more important. I understand that this shutdown creates real-life challenges for hardworking people, and my office is committed to ensuring Kansans get the answers they need.
I remain hopeful that five Democrats will vote with us to reopen the government sooner rather than later. But until that happens, know this: our doors are open, our phones are on, and we will continue to serve Kansans — shutdown or not.
Roger Marshall is the junior U.S. senator from Kansas.