Here in New Hampshire, we’ve been betrayed — not just by Congress generally but by our own delegation. Senators Maggie Hassan and Jeanne Shaheen voted with Republicans to pass a budget that enriches billionaires while slashing vital programs like Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid and veterans’ services. While the senators may have voted to avoid a government shutdown, their support of this spending bill ensures devastating cuts. If the 10 Senate Democrats hadn’t supported the bill, it would have gone back to the House, where Hakeem Jeffries and House Democrats could have pushed for a 30-day extension, forcing Republicans to work on a bipartisan solution. The House, though in recess, could have been called back to do their jobs. This budget proposes $880 billion in cuts to essential services, including Medicare and Medicaid. These cuts will result in millions losing coverage, with devastating effects on hospitals and nursing homes serving vulnerable populations. The cost will be shifted to states, further burdening taxpayers. Sen. Hassan and Sen. Shaheen failed to represent us. They bowed to Trump’s administration, and despite numerous calls, I’ve received only empty assurances. We’ve been lied to and betrayed. I am calling for their immediate resignation. I’m a Medicaid recipient. Without it, I wouldn’t be alive today. Medicaid has allowed me to work, contribute and thrive despite chronic illness. New Hampshire deserves senators who fight for us, not for billionaires. We, the people, call for their immediate resignation.

Emily Akers Cummings

Loudon