Dear Colleague on Democrats' Desire to Keep Government Open to Meet the Needs of American Families

Dear Democratic Colleague,

Last night, House Democrats demonstrated great unity in expressing our values and acting upon them.  I am writing to thank you and also to express the appreciation of so many across the country who have conveyed their gratitude for our taking a strong stand.

Failing to meet the needs of the American people with their insistence on a short-term extension, Republicans are depriving the military of the certainty they need to go forward.  Short-term extensions hinder many other vital initiatives which need long-term assurances; for example, transportation projects and the invaluable research taking place at the NIH.

The negotiations on a long-term Omnibus are continuing and progress has been made, however the Republicans have refused to conclude the talks because of their failure to exert leadership within their own Caucus.

Because of the courage and leadership of Congressional Democrats, our hand is greatly strengthened in our negotiations for the priorities spelled out in the letter from House Democrats led by Congressman Peter Welch which was sent to the President yesterday.  In the negotiations, Democrats are insisting on parity in the budget, funding to fight the opioid epidemic, addressing the VA funding shortfall for our veterans, passing the DREAM Act, passing long-term extensions of both CHIP and Community Health Centers, addressing the pensions crisis, and passing a strong disaster supplemental especially for Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and recent wildfires and mudslides.  All of the priorities we are insisting upon have strong bipartisan support.

Thank you for your commitment to our values.  Thank you for your courage and leadership.

best regards,