AFGE Takes Action to End Government Shutdown

The Government Shutdown in the U.S. Continues

The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), an important union representing federal workers, has called for an end to the ongoing government shutdown due to budget disputes in the U.S. AFGE National President Everett Kelley emphasized that it is time for the government’s doors to reopen.

The Impact of the Shutdown is Harmful to Families

Kelley described the government shutdown as "a preventable crisis that harms families, communities, and the institutions that hold the country together." He also stated that there is still no clear resolution in sight for the government shutdown. Representing over 800,000 federal and government employees, Kelley said, "These patriotic Americans, parents, caregivers, and veterans are forced to work without pay due to political disputes in Washington. They are trying to meet basic needs such as rent, groceries, gas, and medication. This situation is unacceptable," he said.

Government Shutdowns Have Become a Tactic

Kelley pointed out that government shutdowns have become a recurring tactic in Washington. He stated that there are no "winners" in such shutdowns and noted that the situation costs taxpayers billions of dollars and significantly harms small businesses. Kelley emphasized that the erosion of trust in government, along with these types of crises, makes it difficult to find a clean solution with limited predictability.

Call for Immediate Solutions

Kelley also stressed the necessity of immediately reopening the government and urgently paying federal employees their salaries. He pointed out the importance of expediting the steps needed to end government shutdowns.