Staff Reports
In an alarming White House briefing on Monday, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack and White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre highlighted the disastrous consequences of a potential government shutdown. The impact would be felt by vulnerable individuals, farmers, and rural residents who rely on crucial food assistance programs and USDA support.
Tom Vilsack, who served in the same role during the 2013 government shutdown, began by emphasizing the grave threat to food assistance for the 7 million recipients of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children. These individuals, predominantly mothers and their children, would face insurmountable challenges without the essential aid provided by this program.
Reporter Calls Out Karine Jean-Pierre for 'Confusing' Answer on Where Biden Stands on UAW Strike https://t.co/1hQ1AitY3l
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Furthermore, Vilsack underscored the impact on farmers across the country who depend on USDA-guaranteed marketing loans. These loans are vital in ensuring farmers receive a fair price for their crops. However, if a shutdown were to occur, farm service agency offices would shut down, rendering these loans unavailable. This would not only harm farmers but also affect newlyweds in rural areas who rely on USDA loan guarantees to purchase their first homes. The consequences could include delays, potential failures to secure loans, and even the loss of deals.
Karine Jean-Pierre echoed Vilsack’s concerns and called out House Republicans for their reckless demands that could lead to a shutdown. It is imperative to hold these extreme House Republicans accountable for their actions, which could result in damaging cuts and jeopardize our community’s economy and national security.
It is clear that a government shutdown would have devastating effects on vulnerable individuals, farmers, and rural residents. It is time for lawmakers to put aside their chaotic divides and prioritize the well-being of the American people.
