RICHMOND, Va. — In just under 12 hours, the federal government is set to shut down, and lawmakers in Congress are struggling to reach a compromise that would avoid this worst-case scenario. Democrats are trying to avoid further cuts to health care, while Republicans are seeking a short-term funding solution.
In anticipation of a shutdown, Freedom Virginia co-Executive Directors Rhena Hicks and Ryan O’Toole released the following statement:
“At a time when Virginia is already reeling from federal workforce cuts and the skyrocketing cost of living from pointless tariffs, a shutdown would prove detrimental to our economy and the everyday lives of families. With healthcare premiums in Virginia projected to rise by more than 20% in 2026 without Congressional action, we hope lawmakers realize that for so many Americans, this is a lose-lose situation. If the government remains open as a result of a compromise that jeopardizes health care, people lose. If the government shuts down and mass firings take place, people lose.
“The narrative being spun is that Democrats must concede in their efforts to protect access to affordable health care, and that their issues can be addressed outside of a potential shutdown. The way we see it, how can an entirely Republican controlled government blame anyone but themselves for shutting down? By refusing to compromise in the best interests of the American people, Republicans are barreling headfirst toward a shutdown of their own design, all because they refuse to make healthcare affordable.
“Senator Raphael Warnock, D-Ga. was quoted in NPR saying: “They must not be talking to the people I’m talking to in Georgia who are hurting and who cannot afford this astronomical hike that we are going to see in their health care premiums. People can’t afford that.” And we would say the same about Virginia. Virginians are nearly underwater between federal job losses, health care cuts, and the relentlessly high cost of living. They’re struggling to afford food, rent, and everyday necessities, and now, facing even higher health care costs, it would push too many hardworking families over the edge.
“Once again, we urge lawmakers to come to an agreement. An agreement that prioritizes the health, well-being, and stability of Virginians rather than plunging everyone further into crisis.”
