John, Republicans in Congress had a choice: protect health care for 20 million Americans, or do nothing and shut down the government.

They chose the latter.

Once again, Republicans showed where their loyalty lies -- and it is not with the people who elected them to serve. Instead of working to prevent higher health care premiums and provide stability, they have abandoned their responsibility and walked away from the American people

Democrats want to fix this.

Republicans don’t.

The White House has refused to even meet with Democrats, while demanding that Congress allow their disastrous policies to continue unchecked -- policies that raise health care costs, slash funding, and leave hardworking families behind.

The consequences are serious. In South Carolina alone, nearly 25,000 federal employees could be left without paychecks. Our nearly 34,000 active-duty military members may be forced to work without pay until Republicans reopen the government.

We cannot let this stand. Democrats will keep fighting to protect your health care and ensure that our government works for the people -- not against them.

Thank you for standing with us, John,

Jim