USA: Oligarchs prioritized over aid

We all know that elections are important. However, we are now in a position in America, the richest country in the world, where over 40 million people are without assistance for food. That should be the story that takes precedence over everything else.

The government shutdown is because the Republicans won’t approve the extension of Obamacare subsidies, and those people who have Obamacare will see their insurance rates double and not be able to afford insurance. All Americans should be able to eat and have access to healthcare. And yet our government had to be told by a judge that food assistance was necessary, causing a longer delay to help people. 

Some states have stepped in to help with food assistance. Idaho is not willing to do that, overwhelming local food banks already stretched. So, when we go to vote for our senators and representatives in the next election, we should consider what kind of state and America we want to live in. Do we want to help those most in need have food, affordable healthcare, and housing, or do we want to support the oligarchs getting richer, while others suffer?

JUDY BUNDY
Coeur d’Alene