Few things are more chaotic than the days before a government funding deadline.

But this is just getting silly.

In the past year, Congress – and by Congress, I mean the Republicans leading the House — has nearly driven us off a fiscal cliff, kicked the budget can down the road TWICE, and halted any real work in order to play who's-the-least-popular-Republican for three weeks. Now we are hurtling towards two possible government shutdowns on January 19 and February 2.

Maybe silly isn't a strong enough word; This is just absurd.

Congress should be focused on working hard for rural Americans, not playing political games.

Here, outside of the U.S. Capitol, we rely on government programs like the VA, the Affordable Connectivity Program, and many others, and rural families are counting on elected officials to ensure government services are functioning.

I don't know if we will see a shut down in the next two weeks, but I do know who is responsible if we do: The Republicans who would rather grandstand than do the work.

This is exactly why One Country Project is working to bring rural communities and Washington back together. Because as Washington has become more polarized and far-right Republicans have taken over congressional leadership, rural families have been left behind.

We need change in Washington, that's why now is the time for rural communities to team up with grassroot Democrats to build the change we all want in Washington. Can I count on you to be part of this grassroots movement today and drive this change together?

Heidi

Founded by former U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), the One Country Project is dedicated to reopening the dialogue with rural communities, rebuilding trust and respect, and advancing an opportunity agenda for rural Americans. Our mission is to ensure rural America’s priorities and values are heard, understood, well-represented and reflected in policy in Washington.

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