AFSCME President Criticizes Government Shutdown Impact on Workers

The recent federal government shutdown is casting a shadow over essential services, stirring concerns among working families across the nation. AFSCME President Lee Saunders has labeled the shutdown a “one-two punch for working families,” emphasizing the compounded impact on communities that already face deteriorating health care access.

Highlighting the ongoing healthcare crisis, Saunders stated, “As families across the country are crushed by skyrocketing health care costs, anti-worker extremists in Congress are driving a shutdown rather than funding public services, protecting care for millions and keeping hospitals open.” His remarks underscore the challenges that federal workers and public service recipients face due to the shutdown.

The shutdown, which commenced early Wednesday, marks the first of its kind in nearly seven years. Its ripple effects are expected to disrupt several critical government functions, including health communications from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the publication of key economic data like the monthly jobs report. Additionally, numerous federal employees are expected to be furloughed, impacting their livelihoods and the services they provide.

Amidst these developments, the Trump administration's threats of mass firings of federal workers during the shutdown have prompted legal action. AFSCME, alongside the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), has filed a lawsuit challenging these threats, arguing that such firings would constitute an unlawful abuse of power.

The shutdown poses a significant threat to AFSCME members and the public services they deliver nationwide. With states, cities, and towns already grappling with budget constraints, the loss of federal funding could exacerbate these financial challenges.

Amid escalating health care costs, Congress is being urged to lower expenses, safeguard federal employees, and ensure the continuity of public services. However, Saunders criticizes the administration and congressional supporters for prioritizing tax breaks for billionaires, as reflected in the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” over addressing the needs of working families.

There is a growing concern over the expiration of premium tax credits for those insured through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, which could lead to a doubling of premiums next year. This situation places additional financial burdens on those with private insurance, as medical facilities struggle to manage the costs of uncompensated care.

“Workers understand that this is a choice, and that anti-worker politicians chose to protect billionaire wealth while abandoning the rest of us,” Saunders remarked. He called for decisive action, urging, “Fund the government. Fix the health care crisis. And put working people first.”