Emanuel Cleaver: Extreme conservatives trying to force a government shutdown

(From Fifth District Congressman Emanuel Cleaver)

I wanted to contact you about a potential government shutdown and my ongoing work to protect vital services for Missourians in our congressional district. Unfortunately, extreme conservatives are trying to force a shutdown, which would begin on October 1, to further their far-right ideological agenda.

I am working hard right now to keep critical services that working families count on up-and-running. Government services like cancer research, Head Start, and Meals on Wheels are far too important for political games, and I am prepared to work with anyone, Republican or Democrat, to prevent a shutdown and protect these vital programs.

But, if extreme conservatives continue down this reckless path without seeking bipartisan cooperation, I want you to know what you can expect.

Economic forecasters predict a shutdown will slow economic growth, jeopardizing the more than 13.5 million jobs created over the last two years. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) will be unable to process some mortgage loans and the Small Business Administration (SBA) will be unable to serve business owners in our community.

Service members, federal law enforcement, and Border Patrol will remain on the job - but will be forced to work without being paid. Disaster relief and environmental protection will be stalled. Even food inspections, to keep our meat and produce safe, will be slowed down. Some agencies will be shuttered entirely, with serious effects for people who count on them.

Even in the event of a government shutdown, my staff and I will continue working on your behalf and will remain available to assist you as usual - although we may not be able to get answers from federal agencies that have been shuttered.