I’m honored to stand among fellow citizens who care deeply about fairness, accountability, and the people who keep our country running, our Veterans, our federal workers, and our service members. We need to demand a change in the system that affects all of us. When the government shuts down, millions of federal employees are forced to go without pay. Our service members, who protect our country every day, face delays in their salaries. Families struggle to put food on the table, pay bills, and meet basic needs. These aren’t abstract numbers these are real people, our neighbors, our friends, our brothers and sisters in uniform. Meanwhile, Members of Congress continue to receive full salaries, uninterrupted. This is not a political issue it’s a moral one. The people who make decisions about funding and the government’s operation are the same ones who collect a paycheck, even while the very citizens they serve suffer. That is unfair, and it’s unacceptable. We are the people. This government exists because we allow it to, and it is supposed to serve us, not the other way around. When elected officials fail to do their jobs, they should not be rewarded for that failure. I have created a petition that calls for Congress to suspend their pay during government shutdowns until every federal worker and service member receives their back pay. This petition is a way to make our voices heard. It’s a way to show that the people demand accountability. I encourage everyone to sign this petition. Whether you are a veteran, a federal worker, or someone who believes in fairness, your signature is a statement: ‘No more pay for Congress while the people suffer.’ Every signature matters. Every signature amplifies our voice. Together, we can make sure Congress hears us loud and clear. Let’s stand united. Not just in protest, but in action. Let’s fight for fairness, accountability, and respect for those who serve this nation. We are the people. And together, we will make sure the government works for us, not against us. Thank you.