John,

With the threat of default looming, uncertainty will impact every corner of our society, from the retiree relying on Social Security for their livelihood, to the small business owner seeking to grow their enterprise. The cost of federal default is a burden no person should have to bear.

In this time of economic fragility, we should be focusing on supporting and strengthening our economy and society, not adding to the stress and uncertainty. The effects of a default would be both immediate and long-term, exacerbating existing social and economic inequities.

Unfortunately, the discussion around raising the debt ceiling has become increasingly politicized by Republican extremists in recent years, tied to demands for cuts in critical programs and services when we should be investing in support for our most vulnerable communities.

The stance of House Republicans is not only short-sighted, it fundamentally misunderstands the purpose of the debt ceiling. It is not a mechanism for controlling spending, but a safeguard for honoring financial commitments already made. In essence, raising the debt ceiling does not equate to fiscal irresponsibility, rather, it is a reflection of our commitment to honor our debts and maintain the full faith and credit of the United States.

At this critical moment, we urge you to make your voice heard. Demand your senators and representative vote in favor of a clean debt ceiling increase, without harmful cuts to essential programs and services.

The cost of default extends far beyond fiscal implications -- it threatens the livelihood and financial stability of millions of Americans, with reverberating effects across the global economy.

It would trigger a severe recession, with an estimated loss of one million jobs in just the first week, escalating to nearly eight million if prolonged over several weeks. Federal payments, including those to retirees, veterans, and working families, would be halted, while food assistance and healthcare payments would be at risk.

Confidence in the U.S. economy, both domestically and globally, would be shattered, leading to disastrous implications such as a downgrade of the U.S. credit rating, resulting in more expensive borrowing and exacerbating our national debt further.

The retirement savings of countless individuals would be at risk because the stock market would plummet, eradicating trillions of dollars in household wealth that was built up over decades of hard work.

By demanding a clean debt ceiling vote, we are not just asking for the avoidance of immediate catastrophe, we are advocating for a more thoughtful, inclusive, and proactive approach to fiscal policy.

Tell Congress to act -- not in the interest of politics, but in the interest of the American people. Demand a clean debt ceiling vote with no cuts to critical programs and services now.

Let us stand together and ensure that our call for responsible governance is heard.

- Amanda

Amanda Ford, Director
Democracy for America
Advocacy Fund