This current government shutdown was destined to happen again. It happened before in 2011, and again in 2018 always over healthcare. Republicans are totally against providing any government sponsored healthcare but in those instances the Democrats controlled one or more of the Senate, the House, or the Presidency so the Republicans demand that the Affordable Care Act be cancelled or eliminated could never succeed. But now the Republicans control all three branches and given that they have never wanted healthcare or subsidies except when provided by employers they are taking advantage and refusing to negotiate.

Democrats are not asking for more, they are demanding that what CURRENTLY exists be extended into 2026 so that ACA premiums do not escalate by as much as 75% for 2026. And, no, the ACA, Medicaid and Medicare do NOT provide subsidies to illegal immigrants because the enabling legislation specifically prohibits that. So Republicans are lying but using the media to distort the truth. The real issue is the difference between Democrats wanting to help everyone in the escalating costs of healthcare and Republicans believing it is the individual’s responsibility to sink or swim. It is time for voters to decide: do you want a government that helps you or a government that doesn’t.

ROBERT KEEFER

Montoursville

Submitted by Virtual Newsroom