Our democracy depends on a government that’s responsive, reliable, and ready to help its citizens—especially in moments of crisis. I was deeply concerned to hear reports of the Social Security Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, and Internal Revenue Service stopping operations on casework during the government shutdown.  

Congressional offices play a critical role in helping Americans navigate federal agencies. This week, I sent a letter to President Trump and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, calling on them to maintain these vital lifelines.  

Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Leads Effort to Safeguard Critical Services During Government Shutdown 

This week, the U.S. Supreme Court heard two pivotal cases that could decide the future of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA). For six decades, the VRA has stood as a cornerstone of American democracy—protecting voters from racial discrimination and ensuring every citizen has a voice at the ballot box. 

Now, that promise is under threat. The United States was not a fully functioning democracy prior to 1965, and it will cease to be one should the Supreme Court further demolish the urgent protections of the Voting Rights Act. Our democracy depends on the Court’s courage to uphold the VRA and preserve equal justice for every voter in America.

As the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, which oversees federal elections, I won’t stop fighting to strengthen the Voting Rights Act and protect every American’s right to vote. 

Seventeen days into this government shutdown, it’s worth remembering how we got here. Shutdowns are a uniquely American problem. Before the 1980s, a missed budget didn’t mean a full stop, but a legal shift changed that, making “no funding” mean “no function.” 

From the short shutdowns under President Reagan, to the 21-day standoff between Speaker Gingrich and President Clinton, to the 16-day closure in 2013 over the Affordable Care Act and the record-breaking 35-day shutdown under President Trump, each episode has come with real costs. 

We’re here in another Trump shutdown, once again rooted in efforts to slash health care programs and eliminate support that helps families afford coverage, and once again hardworking Americans are paying the price. 

Watch here to learn more about how we got here and why it’s time to reopen the government, protect Americans’ health care, and get back to work. 

Even as the shutdown drags on, my office is working hard to create opportunities for the next generation of leaders. Applications for our Spring 2025 program are now open. 

We welcome students to both my Washington, D.C., and Rochester district offices each semester to take part in a congressional internship program. Here, students will learn about the legislative process, take part in day-to-day office work, and acquire the skills needed to launch a career in public service. 

If you or a student you know are interested in joining the program, visit my website for full application details.

Please know my office is always here to help. Despite the government shutdown, my office remains open and working for you. Visit morelle.house.gov to learn more about how we can assist you and your family. Due to ongoing actions by the Trump administration affecting federal agencies, case processing may be slightly delayed. We appreciate your patience and remain committed to resolving your cases promptly. 

Until next week, 

Joe Morelle 

New York’s 25th Congressional District