NEWS: As Delawareans Face a High Cost of Living, Republicans in Washington Are Trying to Make Things Worse

October 7, 2025

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) is calling attention to the high cost of living that's hurting Delawareans, and how it will be made worse by the Republican shutdown. Alongside her Democratic colleagues, Blunt Rochester has supported legislation to re-open the government, restore the health care that was ripped away by the Republicans' tax law earlier this year, and prevent premiums from doubling ahead of open enrollment season.

"President Trump promised to lower costs on Day One, but more than 250 days into his administration, Delawareans are still feeling the pain," said Senator Blunt Rochester. "I am grateful for the hundreds of Delawareans who have reached out to share their stories. Energy costs are up, food costs are up, housing costs are up, and health care costs will go up too if Congress doesn't act. It's time for my Republican colleagues to get serious, end this shutdown, and lower the cost of living."

Blunt Rochester is encouraging constituents to share their stories through the "Share Your Story" portal on her website. Below are submissions she has already received from her constituents about the cost of living.

"I just wanted to share my concerns about the 'big, beautiful bill," said Amy in Newark. "I am a healthcare provider…I don't think people seem to really realize the impact this will have on everyone in this country, including people who do not have insurance through Medicaid and Medicare. Cuts will literally cause facilities to shut down. Nursing homes are especially at risk, along with hospitals in rural areas…This is an attack on the American people. When going into healthcare, I was taught that the most important person is the patient. I will always strongly advocate for my patients and that is exactly what I am doing now."

"I am a Medicare recipient," said Kathryn in Wilmington. "If I did not have Medicare AND supplemental insurance, I would be forced to choose between my health care costs and basic living costs. So, I can understand the choices people may end up with, through no fault of their own. We should care for fellow citizens, regardless of their wealth. It is our fellow citizens who make our country run. We cannot give up on them. If we do, we aren't worth much. I appreciate your vote FOR Medicaid."

"More frequently, I have been seeing neighbors ask for food or offer to share food since some are hesitant to ask for help…," said Caritas in Wilmington. "We need support from our senators like you, to shout about the need in our neighborhoods for access to food and food benefits. People are helping each other make food stretch because the [Trump administration] is NOT."

"Trump [and] Republican cuts and elimination of Medicaid funding is a life and death matter to those suffering from substance abuse," said Richard in Bridgeville. "My son is able to continue his recovery from opioid addiction due to his eligibility for continued medical assistance…I can't financially afford to provide the current level of assistance to keep him on his recovery program with the ultimate outcome of a healthy productive life…With the current eligible Medicaid programs my son will recover. Without, I can't say he will."

"I can't imagine so many people being stripped of what should be basic rights for all," said Virginia in Dover. "It's like all working class families can no longer afford to live comfortably. I love my job as a public servant, but many of us are struggling with the rest and something needs to change."

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Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester represents Delaware in the United States Senate where she serves on the Committees on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; Commerce, Science, and Transportation; Environment and Public Works; and Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.