Dear john,

This week, the federal government shutdown passed the record for the longest shutdown in history. Now in its 38th day, I continue to call for the same thing I have demanded since the very start of this shutdown: House Speaker Mike Johnson must call us into session to address the needs of the American people. It is shameful that Republican leadership has kept its members away from Washington and away from negotiations to bring this shutdown to a close. Next week, I will return to Washington once again, prepared to do the work my constituents have called me to do.

As an update on federal food assistance programs, I want to share news that a U.S. district court judge has ordered the Trump Administration to provide full SNAP benefits for the month of November by today. The Trump Administration must follow this order and ensure benefits go out as quickly as possible. Food assistance for families in need cannot be used as a political bargaining chip. This political brinkmanship was entirely avoidable, and it has caused unnecessary fear and chaos for families and for the local organizations that feed the hungry. I will be closely monitoring this latest development. In the meantime, if you need direct assistance, please take a look at my Community Resource Guide for more information on local aid.

Next week, we will observe Veterans Day. As the daughter of an Army veteran, and as someone who has veterans throughout my family, my gratitude goes out to every person who has served this nation in our armed forces. Just this past weekend, I was honored to host my eighth and final Vietnam War 50th Commemoration Pinning Ceremony. Our work for veterans must go beyond a simple "Thank you." In Congress, I will continue to champion policies that fulfill the promises made to those who served our country.

Photo collage of Rep. McBath and local veterans during her Vietnam War 50th Commemoration Pinning Ceremony.

Thank you for staying up to date with my office. If you require federal assistance of any kind, I encourage you to call my office at (470) 773-6330 or email me at mcbath.house.gov/email-me. For more local updates, please visit my social media platforms.