Government Shutdown Hurts Workers, Veterans and Families — Leaders Must Do Better

By State Representative Floyd Griffin (D-Milledgeville)

(293 words)

As a veteran and public servant, I've always believed leaders solve problems, not create them. But today, Americans are paying the price for political gridlock that has led to a federal government shutdown.

When Washington fails to do its job, ordinary citizens suffer. Federal employees are furloughed or working without pay. Veterans' benefits face delays. Small businesses that depend on federal contracts pause hiring. Families worry about losing access to critical programs that keep food on the table and children in school.

The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the last major shutdown of 2018 - 2019 cost our economy $11 billion, with $3 billion in output lost forever. Each week this shutdown continues, billions more vanish - hurting confidence and slowing growth. Here in Georgia, the ripple effects reach from our military communities to local businesses and college campuses. Every missed paycheck affects spending in our stores, restaurants and churches. Federal projects at Fort Benning, Robins Air Force Base and our Veterans Medical Centers face unnecessary delays.

As a combat veteran and former mayor, I understand the importance of planning and discipline. You don't stop the mission because you can't agree on details - you work the problem until you find a solution. That's the difference between leadership and politics.

Congress and the White House must put aside partisan games and restore the government's function - not for themselves, but for the American people who expect results, not excuses. This shutdown is not just a budget fight; it is a test of character and leadership.

Our nation deserves better. We deserve leaders who keep their word, serve their country and remember that public trust is sacred.

I am urging Congress to act: reopen the government, restore confidence and move forward together. That is what real leaders do.

Representative Floyd Griffin represents the citizens of District 149, which includes portions of Baldwin, Bibb and Jones counties. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2024 and currently serves on the Defense & Veterans Affairs, Special Rules and State Planning & Community Affairs committees.

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