URGENT UPDATE: Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) is sounding the alarm on an impending government shutdown and escalating health care costs, demanding immediate action from GOP leadership. During an appearance on MSNBC with Ali Vitali, Gallego criticized the lack of effective leadership from the Republican Party, emphasizing that millions of Americans could face devastating increases in health care premiums starting November 1.
With the government at a standstill, Gallego highlighted the urgent need to protect federal workers’ pay and prevent soaring health insurance costs. He stated, “In Arizona, the average family of four is going to have their insurance rates doubled to almost $3,400 more. That’s almost $7,600 a year.” The senator warned that families could see their monthly premiums rise by $760, significantly impacting household budgets across the state.
Gallego also drew attention to the potential fallout for those relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). When pressed about supporting a bill to ensure SNAP remains funded, he confirmed, “Yes, we actually proposed two bills that would take care of all government employees, as well as contractors that are not being paid right now.” His commitment to a comprehensive approach aims to safeguard those affected by the shutdown.
Criticizing GOP leaders like Senate Majority Whip John Thune and former President Donald Trump, Gallego lamented the absence of decisive action. “What we’re looking at when it comes to true leadership from Thune, and the lack of leadership from Donald Trump, we don’t see anything,” he stated emphatically. He also expressed concern over Representative Mike Johnson, who he claims has “absolutely disappeared,” hindering Congress’s ability to address these pressing issues swiftly.
Gallego’s priorities are clear: he seeks to keep insurance premiums low for Americans and is willing to negotiate for a bipartisan solution to end the government shutdown. “All we want is two things: keeping insurance premiums very low for as many Americans as possible, and having a good deal when it comes to reopening the government,” he asserted.
As the clock ticks down, the urgency of the situation escalates. Families across the nation are bracing for potential financial strain, while Gallego’s calls for cooperation serve as a reminder of the critical need for effective leadership in times of crisis. The senator urges bipartisan efforts to resolve these issues, stating, “We agree it has to be a compromise no matter what.”
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the implications of the government shutdown unfold.
