I'm heartbroken reading how many of you rely on government benefits. Here's what I found about payments during a potential federal shutdown:

- **Social Security/SSI**: Payments continue without change. [ssa.gov](https://www.ssa.gov/faqs/en/questions/KA-10093.html
- **SNAP**: Benefits may continue temporarily via contingency funds, but prolonged shutdowns could cause delays. [USDA]
- **Medicare/Medicaid**: Coverage continues, though administrative tasks may slow.
- **VA Benefits/Healthcare**: Facilities stay open; benefits like compensation and pensions continue.
- **HUD Assistance**: Previously obligated housing payments continue, but prolonged shutdowns may delay renewals or new loans.
- **TANF**: Federal funding may stop, but some states may use their own funds.

Having relied on assistance myself, I understand the stress. Let’s hope for a swift resolution, but we must keep pushing for accountability. The following senators, in office 20+ years, have failed to meet the October 1 budget deadline since 1997. Those marked (*) are up for reelection in 2026. Do they deserve it?

- Chuck Grassley (44 yrs)
- Mitch McConnell (40 yrs)*
- Patty Murray (32 yrs)
- Ron Wyden (29 yrs)*
- Dick Durbin (28 yrs)*
- Jack Reed (28 yrs)
- Susan Collins (28 yrs)*
- Chuck Schumer (26 yrs)
- Mike Crapo (26 yrs)
- Maria Cantwell (24 yrs)
- Debbie Stabenow (24 yrs)
- Lisa Murkowski (22 yrs)
- John Cornyn (22 yrs)*

Keep fighting for change!