Today marked the first missed paycheck for millions of federal government workers and contractors. These are hardworking men and women who do jobs that keep our air and water clean, our skies safe, and so much more. With control of the White House, Senate, and the House of Representatives, Republicans could end this shutdown today. Instead, they've chosen the cruelest path forward. One that lets children go hungry, puts health insurance out of reach for millions, and prioritizes political theater over all else.
In this environment, I worked with my colleagues to ask utility companies like ComEd to suspend penalties and shutoffs for workers until the shutdown is over.