Let’s start with the facts. Republicans currently control the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, and the presidency. That means they have full authority to pass a budget and keep the government open. When one party holds all the power in Washington, that party also holds the responsibility to govern.

This shutdown began because Republican leadership has refused to negotiate on Democratic proposals to protect and strengthen healthcare – proposals that would make sure families in Minnesota and across the country can afford the care they need. Democrats have been willing to compromise to keep the government open. But negotiations only work if both sides show up, and so far, only one side has walked away.

The effects of this shutdown are being felt in every corner of Minnesota.

Thousands of federal employees who work at the Minneapolis VA, or the IRS center in Bloomington, or the National Weather Service in Duluth are either furloughed or working without pay. That means workers are missing paychecks. Families are struggling to cover rent. People are having to choose between essentials like groceries and child care.

Farmers who depend on the USDA for crop insurance payments and loans are seeing delays right when they need support the most. Small businesses waiting on federal contracts or loans can’t move forward. Families relying on nutrition assistance or housing programs are anxious about whether help will arrive on time.

These are not abstract numbers on a budget spreadsheet. These are real Minnesotans. They are our neighbors, friends, and public servants caught in the middle of a political standoff they didn’t create.

Republicans have the power to end this shutdown today. All it takes is a willingness to govern responsibly and to sit down and negotiate in good faith.

Minnesotans value hard work, decency, and accountability. We expect our leaders to do their jobs. Keeping the government open, protecting healthcare, and respecting the people who serve our country should not be partisan issues.

It’s time for Republicans to put politics aside, reopen the government, and start serving the people.