On October 1, the United States government faced the looming possibility of a shutdown, which would have had dire consequences for millions of government workers, including those in the military, who would go without pay. National parks, the aviation industry, and vital government aid programs like food stamps were at risk of losing funding. Passport offices and other government branches would also have closed.
This crisis originated in the House of Representatives, specifically from the House Freedom Caucus, a group of around 40 Republicans. Interestingly, this group’s size is greater than the difference between the majority Republicans and the Democrats in the House. The House Freedom Caucus aligns itself with the conservative ideals of former President Donald Trump, causing significant disagreements within the majority party. Notably, Kevin McCarthy, the former Speaker of the House, required fifteen ballots to secure power, setting a modern record. He recently lost the speakership—a first in American history—due to difficulties in keeping promises to various House groups.
These events underscore the deep division within the House of Representatives, setting the stage for the government shutdown crisis. While neither side desires a shutdown, disagreements over spending bills, such as the one that failed on September 29, have persisted. The House and Senate must pass twelve spending bills each to fund various government resources.
These bills directly impact citizens and even extend to Haverford. For instance, the FDA’s inability to effectively process products for store shelves could lead to food and water shortages. Simultaneously, the Environmental Protection Agency’s scaling back inspections poses a risk of drinking water contamination. Delays in responding to incidents like the recent chemical spill of latex polymer in Bucks County affecting the Delaware River could have occurred.
Students at Haverford engage with the government process in various classes, including Mr. Lengel’s Government and Politics elective. Mr. Lengel emphasized the importance of students being informed about current political events, stating that it is “enormously important” and a crucial aspect of their education. He stressed that engagement is vital in a democratic system, even for students who cannot yet vote. It is an opportunity to learn and understand the ongoing political landscape and navigate it effectively.
“…engagement is vital in a democratic system, even for students who cannot yet vote. It is an opportunity to learn and understand the ongoing political landscape and navigate it effectively.”
History Department Chair Ms. Hannah Turlish commented on the serious challenges facing students and the entire nation. She highlighted the potential consequences of not raising the debt ceiling, including the furloughing of thousands of government employees and disruptions to Medicare payments. She emphasized that this situation is not just frustrating but also poses a national security concern.
A New York Times article from September 17 cited a Quinnipiac University poll indicating that 69% of both Democrats and Republicans believe democracy in the United States is in danger of collapsing. These sentiments from political figures and the general population are deeply concerning.
According to multiple voices at Haverford, understanding these issues at a young age can help students navigate and possibly prevent such crises in the future.
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