1. United States
2. Mich.
3. Letter

The continuing resolution being pushed by Republicans is an extreme measure that puts vital programs and benefits at risk. It threatens Social Security, housing assistance, food aid, and benefits for veterans. Moreover, it hands over unchecked power to Trump and Elon Musk to hijack federal spending as they see fit, legitimizing their attempted coup. This resolution cannot be allowed to pass. Senate Democrats must leverage their critical votes to demand a government funding bill that rejects draconian cuts and partisan policy riders attacking abortion rights, LGBTQ+ protections, and immigrant communities. The bill must also include ironclad safeguards to prevent the Trump-Musk regime from commandeering federal funds. Until these conditions are met, Democrats cannot support anything beyond a clean, short-term continuing resolution to keep the government operational. Furthermore, as the Trump-Musk takeover escalates with illegal actions like raiding payment systems, shuttering agencies, and purging civil servants, Senate Democrats must employ every procedural mechanism at their disposal. This includes blanket holds on nominees, blocking unanimous consent, and forcing quorum calls to slow, expose, and obstruct this authoritarian power grab. Decisive action is required to uphold democratic norms and protect the integrity of our institutions. The stakes are too high for compromise or capitulation.