We need a cure for America’s Independence Day hangover

Millions of Americans gleefully celebrated our nation’s 249 th birthday. Parades. Picnics. Family gatherings. Concerts. Fireworks.

Millions of Americans woke from their intoxicating merriment with a devastating hangover.

Millions of rejoicing Americans seemed blissfully unaware that their federal government had just passed a reverse Robin Hood budget. The cruel, new fiscal plan takes from millions of Americans most in need. Low-income families. Children. Senior citizens. People with disabilities. Military veterans. The unhoused.

Why would our elected officials do this? Simple. To rob the poor to give to the already richest among us. Just as candidate Trump promised.

Our children’s children will bear the weight of the ballooning federal deficit for decades.

And, yes, all six of Iowa’s congressional delegates—all Republicans—voted for the bill. Despite months of repeated, sustained protests, phone calls, and emails, Iowa’s delegates put their political careers ahead of their constituents’ well-being. They made clear that they do not care about regular Americans.

You may not need Medicaid, food assistance, or other federal programs. Consider yourself lucky. But as you count your blessings, remember this.

Millions of us are one paycheck away from poverty. Millions of us are one accident or illness away from a permanent disability. Millions of us are one natural disaster away from homelessness. Who will help us then?

Don’t be like the millions of unaware Americans. Don’t blissfully ignore the people around you. Check in on your neighbors who need help getting by. Being a good neighbor is now more important than ever.

Gordie Felger lives in Hiawatha.