I am angered and appalled that the actions of one Republican senator means that unemployment assistance will be cut off for families in Washington state and across the nation on Sunday night. For years these benefits have been routinely extended in tough times. This is just one more example of the Republicans trying to score cheap political points on the backs of America’s families.
Unemployment assistance has become a lifeline many in our state thought they would never need, but now don’t know what they would do without. And it’s unconscionable and unacceptable that one Senator is holding up these benefits and turning his back on those who need help now.
When we see actions like this, it’s no surprise that Americans are frustrated with Washington, D.C. I am too. We have to put politics aside and help the families and businesses that are struggling today. I will continue to fight for these families, and will work next week to get this critical assistance restarted as we continue to work to get our economy back on track.