AFT Massachusetts Condemns White House Use Of Working Families As Pawns In Government Shutdown (October 1, 2025)
AFT Massachusetts President Jessica Tang released the following statement in response to the federal government shutdown and the actions taken by Congress and the White House that jeopardize healthcare for millions of Americans:
“When the federal government shuts down, everyone loses. Congressional Republicans and the White House have made a deliberate choice to prioritize tax breaks for the wealthy over the well-being of working families. Instead of facing questions about protecting access to healthcare for millions of Americans, including their own constituents, they chose to hold the government hostage.
“By allowing healthcare tax credits millions rely on to expire, they’re putting us on a path toward a full-blown healthcare crisis. Hospitals and clinics will be forced to close or cut services. Millions will lose their insurance. Those who keep it will have to pay higher premiums, all so that corporations and the ultra-rich can pocket even more in tax giveaways.
“Massachusetts is not immune. Eight thousand people will lose their health insurance, the average person enrolling through the Health Connector will see their premium triple, and our hospitals will lose $424 million.
“Now, rather than fixing the damage they’ve done, Republicans are recklessly refusing to fund essential services unless their harmful policies remain in place. In typical fashion, working people are suffering the consequences.
“This is beyond partisan disagreements or political dysfunction. We call on the president and Republicans in Congress to get back to work and do what is right for the hardworking Americans who elected them. It’s time they work with Democrats and find a solution that all Americans deserve — one that protects healthcare, lowers costs, and keeps the government open.”