State Rep. Donavan McKinney And Macomb County Commissioner Michael Howard III Join Michigan Families for Fair Care To Disavow Disastrous Federal Assistance Payment Cuts

Today, Michigan Families for Fair Care, State Representative Donavan McKinney, Macomb County Commissioner Michael Howard III, Mount Clemens City Commissioner Spencer Calhoun and other Michigan activists held a press event at Warren City Hall to address the impact of the federal assistance payment cuts the Trump administration planned to implement, which could cause irreparable harm to Michiganders. 

This decision, which happend on earlier this week, could block funding for infrastructure projects, disaster relief, law enforcement activities, suicide prevention hotlines, health services, and nutrition assistance programs like SNAP and WIC. 

Michiganders have already experienced disruptions to vital services, including Medicaid payments. On Tuesday, the online system used by states to access Medicaid payments was shut down. Considering 41% of Michigan’s budget is made up of federal funding many fear the cuts will have massive repercussions. These disruptions are inline with Republican plans to implement cuts to fund the tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans. 

As of today, there is still confusion as to if the administration rescinded the memo, leading to nationwide confusion. 

State Representative Donavan McKinney:

“When our congressional leadership fails to communicate with the people they represent, it is up to local officials to take their place. We have been in constant communication with members of our community that provide crucial services to help navigate them through this self-inflicted crisis. We are on the ground and doing the work. It is clear that the motivations behind these federal payment cuts are to serve the interests of billionaires and the ultra-wealthy. We will continue to stand up for the working class and show what real leaders look like.” 

Macomb County Commissioner Michael Howard III

“The foundations of our society depend on the federal government to do its job. They are not working for the good of all Americans. The work that is done by our public servants is invaluable, and not up for negotiation. We will continue to make our voices heard, and protect the resources that we depend on to continue living healthy and productive lives. The disruptions we have faced are detrimental to the lives of our veterans, seniors, and our children, but we will continue to face them together.”

Michigan Families for Fair Care Director, Steve Lawson:

“Non-profits across the state of Michigan are scrambling for answers, but they have been met with silence from the congressional leadership of John James’ office, who has yet to comment on the situation. It is clear that Republicans are trying to sweep this issue under the rug while they try to find other ways to fund their tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy. Our local elected officials are showing us that real leadership means answering tough questions, and being there when people need them. Where is our congressman? Where is Rep. John James? Congress passed bills to provide funding for vital services and we will hold them accountable to the law because our public safety, infrastructure, veterans, and educators depend on it. The well-being of Michiganders is non-negotiable and if this administration wants to put them at risk to fund tax cuts for billionaires it is simply not going to happen.”