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Why the Government is Still Shut Down
We are now six days into a government shutdown because Senate Democrats blocked the House-passed plan to fund the government responsibly. Their alternative would increase spending by $1.5 trillion, while the country is over $37 trillion in debt.
Let’s be clear about what’s in their plan:
One study found that millions of Americans were fraudulently enrolled in ACA plans without their knowledge. Nearly 35% of enrollees made zero claims, suggesting the subsidies are padding insurer profits, not helping real patients.
What’s at Stake
The shutdown is already affecting Arizona:
- Arizona’s economy is losing nearly $300 million per week.
- Social Security checks may be delayed for over 6,000 Arizona seniors.
- Military personnel are working without pay.
The shutdown needs to end, and it starts with putting Arizonans first. Today, I urged Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego to vote YES on the clean CR, and I call on the rest of their colleagues to do the same.
My Offices Remain Open
During the government shutdown, my staff and I continue to work on behalf of the people of Arizona’s First Congressional District. Both my Washington, D.C. and district offices remain open and ready to assist with casework, agency inquiries, and constituent services.
This year, we have helped constituents recover thousands of dollars from federal agencies and resolve issues involving Social Security, Medicare, VA Benefits, Passport Services, the IRS and many more. If you need assistance or have questions about how the shutdown may affect your pending claim, application, or your upcoming visit to Washington, D.C., please contact one of my offices or visit Schweikert.house.gov for more information.
Scottsdale Office (480)-946-2411
Washington DC Office (202)-225-2190
Two Years Ago
Two years ago, Israel faced one of the darkest days in its history.
I continue to stand firm with the people of Israel as they defend their nation. The United States must remain a strong ally to Israel and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
As we mark this solemn anniversary of the October 7th terrorist attacks, we remember the victims, support the survivors, and reaffirm our commitment to Israel’s security and the values we share.
A Reminder to Prioritize Early Detection
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It is a time to highlight prevention, early detection and access to care. More than four million people in the United States have survived breast cancer. This month serves as a reminder to stay informed about screening options and encourage regular checkups.
Congressional App Challenge
The 2025 Congressional App Challenge is underway, with submissions due October 30th!
The Congressional App Challenge is a competition aimed at encouraging middle and high school students to learn how to code by creating their own applications. The Challenge is intended to highlight the value of computer science and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education.
This competition is open to all students residing in Arizona’s First Congressional District who meet the eligibility requirements, regardless of coding experience. We strongly encourage students of all skill levels to participate, enabling them to learn how to create their own apps. Students can register online and submit their apps by October 30th.
To learn more about the competition or to submit an app HERE.
JEC FY25 Analysis
In just one fiscal year, our national debt increased by $2.17 trillion, bringing the total to $37.64 trillion. As of October 3, just three days after the close of the fiscal year, total debt is jumped by $200 billion to $37.85 trillion.
To put it in perspective, in FY2025, the U.S. borrowed an average of:
- $5.95 billion per day
- $248 million per hour
- $4.13 million per minute
- $68,902 per second
We are now spending more on interest payments than nearly every other line item in the federal budget, second only to Social Security.
I’ve warned that we are running out of time. The debt is now 122.6% of our GDP, and it’s growing faster than our economy. If we don’t act soon, interest payments will consume the budget, crowd out core priorities, and leave future generations buried under the consequences of today’s inaction.
I ask that my colleagues look at the math and focus on the fiscal reality we’re in.
What I'm Reading and Why it Matters
University of Arizona Unveils AI Skin Cancer Imaging Technology
I recently read about the University of Arizona’s new imaging technology that could help doctors detect and treat skin cancer more accurately. The innovation, called synthetic wavelength imaging, allows doctors to look beneath the skin’s surface without surgery and better identify cancer cells early.
This kind of research shows the incredible progress being made right here in Arizona to improve patient care and save lives. I am proud to see our state leading the way in medical innovation and will continue to support efforts that bring advanced, life-changing technologies to our communities.
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