Feeding children is not a political decision, it's a moral one.

That is why I am perplexed. Why would 14 Republican governors — including the governor of my home state of Iowa — refuse federal funding for summer nutrition programs? This program ensures low-income kids have lunch during the summer, so what's the problem?

According to Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, this does not provide a long term solution. But a long term solution six days, weeks, months, or years from now is little solace to an eight year-old kid who is experiencing hunger right now.

This is just another excuse by Republicans to ignore the needs of our communities so they can score points with far-right extremists. The One Country Project is committed to fighting for the hard working folks in all of our communities. Can we count on you to chip in today and join the fight?

Food pantries and nonprofit assistance are at breaking points across the country, and it's disgraceful to see any governor turn down free money to help feed kids.

Nebraska's Gov. Jim Pillen refused to participate, saying he "doesn't believe in welfare." But rural state senators pushed back and Nebraskans put the Governor on the receiving end of an intense wave of backlash.

Last week, Pillen announced that Nebraska will be taking full advantage of the federal summer EBT program.

Meanwhile, Kim Reynolds let the deadline pass without signing our state up.

This is what we are up against: Republicans who won't do what's right unless pressured to do so. The One Country Project is ramping up the pressure and fighting for all of our families, but we cannot do it alone.

We need a grassroots movement that is strong enough to stand up to American families and fight back against the extremism that is dominating rural states. Can I count on you to chip in $3 today and help us Stand Tall for All?

J.D.

J.D. Scholten Iowa State Representative