Dear Friend,

Since Republicans shut down the government, servicemembers and their families weren’t sure if they would be paid. That is unacceptable.

Our servicemembers and their families deserve better than to miss out on their paychecks because Republicans refuse to cancel their extended vacation and come back to Washington, D.C., to negotiate on reopening the government.

As the daughter of a Vietnam veteran, I know that our servicemembers sacrifice so much to keep us safe, and as a nation, our commitment to support our servicemembers cannot waver — including during a government shutdown.

That is why I am a cosponsor of the Pay Our Military Act, which would ensure that our servicemembers continue to receive their paychecks even if there is a lapse in government funding. But on October 10, 2025, just 5 days ago, House Republicans refused to bring this bipartisan bill to the floor for a vote.

Let me repeat myself: House Republicans REFUSED to bring a bill to the floor that was supported by both Republicans and Democrats that would allow servicemembers to get paid.

While servicemembers did receive their paycheck today, the way in which these funds were distributed by the Administration is likely an illegal maneuver and is only a temporary fix. Servicemembers need the peace of mind that they will get paid at the end of the month, and there needs to be a permanent solution. The easier way to guarantee pay for our servicemembers is to allow a vote on this bipartisan legislation.

The bottom line is that servicemembers, hardworking families, and YOU should never be a bargaining chip in President Trump and Republicans' purely political games.

Let me know if you or someone you know is being impacted by the government shutdown by filling out the form here. Please know that I have veterans on my staff who are ready and willing to help with a federal agency like the VA. Call us at (503) 385-0906 or visit salinas.house.gov/casework.

Be well,




Andrea Salinas
Member of Congress