Melissa, Idaho

Dear Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID), Rep. Russ Fulcher (R-ID-01), Sen. Jim Risch (R-ID)

Hello, I am a constituent who loves Idaho, the United States, and my neighbors. As a woman of faith, I believe that it is my duty to help care for others, especially the least of these. I give of my time and treasure to help make the world a better place, especially in my small corner of Idaho. I also believe that it is part of the United States government's duty to lift up its citizens and citizens of other countries. We are so completely blessed in the United States and God has given us an obligation to help when we are so blessed.

Stopping healthcare research and HIV treatment worldwide is unconscionable. Governments should be in the business of saving lives, not needlessly sacrificing lives - mothers, fathers, and children will suffer, die, and for what? PEPFAR has had bipartisan support since it was created in 2003 -- through ten congresses and four presidential administrations. AIDS related deaths have dropped by over 68% since its creation. Incredible people are alive and thriving today despite a positive HIV diagnosis, instead of receiving an automatic death sentence.

I also live near a sanctuary city and my relationships with immigrants and refugees have enriched my life. Every day I see hardworking people who are making our communities better and richer. In the past two weeks they are frightened yet again because sanctuary cities may not receive federal funding to help them get a fresh start. This is needlessly torturing them; haven't they already suffered enough? We are a country that historically welcomed immigrants. I am in despair knowing that isn't true anymore.

I urge you to say no to presidential impoundment. We cannot enable a dictator who causes fear and confusion daily. We cannot leave people to die. We cannot care less for those who are experiencing suffering. You can make an incredible difference by voting to help American citizens and citizens of the world or you can sign death sentences.

Sincerely,

Melissa, ID