Courage for America Bus Tour Stops in AZ, CA, CO, MO, and NC to tell MAGA Lawmakers to “Back Off Our Benefits”

Photos, Videos, and More Available Here

One week into its nationwide “Back Off Our Benefits” bus tour, Courage for America has traveled from coast to coast to demand that Republican lawmakers make a promise to the people they represent that they will not cut essential programs that Americans rely on — including Social Security, Medicare, SNAP, and veterans’ benefits.

From California to North Carolina, partners, advocates, and constituents have called out House Republicans for risking a major global economic crisis and putting American lives and livelihoods at risk by forcing a national default unless their extreme demands are met. The tour will conclude on April 17 in Washington, D.C. to mark Kevin McCarthy’s 100th day as House Speaker with a press conference at the U.S. Capitol.

Here’s what you need to know about the bus tour this week:

Coloradans Call Out Boebert, MAGA Lawmakers for Playing Politics:

Courage for America was joined by Rocky Mountain Values, the Colorado Alliance for Retired Americans, and constituents in Durango to urge Rep. Lauren Boebert (CO-03) to promise those she represents that House Republicans will not jeopardize benefits that help low-income families, seniors, veterans, and countless other Coloradans make ends meet.

• Durango Herald: “Back Off Our Benefits” campaign travels through Durango

Speaking on behalf of the Colorado Alliance for Retired Americans, Jean Walter challenged Speaker McCarthy and Rep. Boebert and demanded that they “Stop with the political games [and] don’t risk our economy by failing to raise the debt limit.”

You can watch the Durango event here, high quality audio is available here, and additional photos can be found here.

 (All images free for use with credit to Courage for America)

Veterans, Advocates Urge Rep. Smith To Protect Their Benefits:

At Kiener Plaza in St. Louis, advocates demanded that Rep. Jason Smith (MO-08) promise not to cut funding for lifesaving programs that Americans rely on while the default deadline looms—including Social Security, Medicare, and veterans’ benefits.

“Social Security Disability Insurance was and continues to be here, not only for myself, but for over 26,000 constituents from MO-08—citizens that are part of Rep. Jason Smith’s district,” said Jessica Motsinger, a U.S. Navy veteran and Common Defense member who called on House Republicans to protect her benefits. “We’re asking Rep. McCarthy and Rep. Smith to honor their oath.”

You can watch the St. Louis event here, high quality audio is available here, and additional photos can be found here.

(All images free for use with credit to Courage for America)

North Carolinians Blast Reps. Edwards, Hudson, and McHenry for House Majority’s Extreme Agenda:

Making its way to the East Coast this week, the “Back Off Our Benefits” bus tour made several stops in North Carolina on Friday and Saturday to continue ramping up pressure on MAGA lawmakers threatening to cut federal benefits like SNAP and Social Security.

• ABC Asheville: ”Back Off Our Benefits” Stops in Asheville, NC
• ABC Asheville: Making its way across US, ‘Back Off Our Benefits’ bus stops in WNC with message

“It’s clear that […] the current leadership’s priorities are not aligned with those of most Americans,” said Representative Eric Ager (HD-114) in Asheville. “As we approach the 100th day of McCarthy’s tenure as Speaker, we really have to speak out [..] to make sure that they’re doing the work necessary to ensure American success. I call on our representative Chuck Edwards to push back against this effort in the House to take our country to the brink of default and risk an economic crisis, really just to score some petty political points.”

You can watch the Asheville event here, high quality audio is available here, and additional photos can be found here. 

“Republicans, especially here in North Carolina, have voted against veterans’ care time after time,” said Skyleigh Heinen, a disabled U.S. Army veteran. “Cutting any much-needed funding for veterans’ health care would be sacrificing those who served for the benefit of protecting the rich. I could not imagine how I would survive.”

You can watch the Charlotte event here, high quality audio is available here, and additional photos can be found.

(All images free for use with credit to Courage for America)

Later today, Courage for America will also join constituents in Raleigh who will ask Rep. Richard Hudson (NC-09) directly to sign the promise to his constituents that he won’t cut their hard-earned benefits.

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Advocates Ramp Up Pressure on MAGA Republicans Ahead of McCarthy’s 100th Day
Photos, Audio, and Tour Information Available in Our Press Kit
(All images free for use with credit to Courage for America)

CHARLOTTE, NC — Today, as part of its nationwide “Back Off Our Benefits” bus tour, Courage for America joined local advocates to demand that Congressman Patrick McHenry (NC-10) promise his constituents that he will not cut essential programs that Americans rely on ahead of the looming default deadline — including Social Security, Medicare, SNAP, and veterans’ benefits.

Constituents of Rep. McHenry, including local advocates and veterans with Common Defense, joined Courage for America to highlight how MAGA lawmakers’ political games are pushing the country towards a default crisis at the expense of American seniors, veterans, and children.

For photos, videos, and more, visit our Press Kit and Facebook. Event photos and videos will continue to be updated as they are available.
For additional information or to speak with a spokesperson or event speaker, contact [email protected].

(All images free for use with credit to Courage for America)

WATCH EVENT HERE

FULL EVENT AUDIO HERE

EVENT PHOTOS HERE 

Here’s what speakers had to say about MAGA lawmakers’ extreme agenda:

Laura Packard, a Courage for America spokesperson and executive director of Health Care Voter:

• “We’re calling on extreme members of the Republican House majority, including Rep. McHenry here in Asheville, to sign a promise [that] they must protect the essential benefits Americans rely on and stop playing political games with the default crisis.”
• “House Republicans, including Rep. McHenry here in Charlotte, are risking a major global economic crisis to score political points. So we’re here to ask Rep. McHenry a final time to promise his constituents that he’ll back off our hard-earned benefits and stop playing politics with our livelihoods.”

Skyleigh Heinen, a disabled U.S. Army veteran:

• “Republicans, especially here in North Carolina, have voted against veterans’ care time after time. […] Cutting any much-needed funding for veterans’ health care would be sacrificing those who served for the benefit of protecting the rich. I could not imagine how I would survive.”
• “This is what will happen: Social Security checks will stop. Medicaid and Medicare freezes. Veterans lose their health care. Six million people could lose their jobs. Small businesses could go under. Banks will run out of money. Homebuyers are locked out, and regular investors could lose everything.”
• “I demand Republicans back off our benefits. Show Americans that you do care for those who served this country with honor and integrity.”

Stacy Staggs, director of community engagement for Little Lobbyists:

• “You can’t tell me you care about kids and then take away programs that help them. You can’t tell me you care about veterans and retirees, and then take away benefits that help them.”
• “I’m just here as a mom and a North Carolina voter in this district. One-in-eight people use SNAP benefits. […] As Congress goes forward, I’m going to ask you all to back off our benefits. Leave the programs in place, improve and protect those programs.”

Tariq Smith, a veteran and Common Defense member:

• “I think about those millions of people with similar stories who wake up every day and do everything our country asks of them, only to have to see extreme MAGA politicians hold our national economy hostage and cavalierly call for gutting veterans’ support, Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and other similar programs. I think about the folks who’ve served in the military or paid into Social Security for decades, only to get home at night, turn on the news each night, and hear out-of-touch politicians call [them] entitlements.”
• “I’m proud to stand with the people here today and millions of other Americans all across the country to call on Patrick McHenry, Dan Bishop, and other extreme Republicans in Congress to promise to protect the hard-earned benefits that millions of Americans count on each and every day.”

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Advocates Ramp Up Pressure on MAGA Republicans Ahead of Potential Default Crisis and McCarthy’s 100th Day

CHARLOTTE, NC — Today (4/7) at 3 PM EDT, as part of its nationwide “Back Off Our Benefits” bus tour, Courage for America will host a press conference with local advocates at Romare Bearden Park to call on Representative Patrick McHenry to promise his constituents that he will not cut essential programs that Americans rely on — including Social Security, Medicare, and veterans’ benefits.

Constituents of Rep. McHenry will join Courage for America council members and allies to shine a light on how MAGA lawmakers’ political games are pushing the country towards a default crisis at the expense of American seniors, veterans, and children.

NOTE: Rep. McHenry’s constituents invited him to attend the event and make this promise to his constituents, but they did not hear back from his office. 

RSVP For the Press Conference Here

PRESS CONFERENCE AT ROMARE BEARDEN PARK 

• WHO: 
  • Laura Packard, Courage for America spokesperson and executive director of Health Care Voter
  • Moises Montalvo, Army Veteran and Common Defense member
  • Kevan Woodson, Medicare expert
  • Tariq Smith, Common Defense Veteran
  • Skyleigh Heinen, disabled veteran
  • Additional constituents and community leaders from NC-10
• WHEN: Today, April 7, at 3 PM ET (check-in begins at 2:45 PM ET)
• WHERE: Romare Bearden Park 300 S Church St., Charlotte, NC 28202

** B-ROLL AND PHOTO VISUAL: “Back Off Our Benefits” branded bus, signs being held by individuals; large “empty promise” placard; local community members speaking; campaign members wearing Courage for America t-shirts and sweatshirts**

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Advocates Ramp Up Pressure on MAGA Republicans Ahead of McCarthy’s 100th Day
Photos, Audio, and Tour Information Available in Our Press Kit
(All images free for use with credit to Courage for America)

ASHEVILLE, NC — Today, as part of its nationwide “Back Off Our Benefits” bus tour, Courage for America joined local advocates to demand that Representative Chuck Edwards (NC-11) promise his constituents that he will not cut essential programs that Americans rely on ahead of the looming default deadline — including Social Security, Medicare, SNAP and veterans’ benefits.

Constituents of Rep. Edwards, including North Carolina state Representative Eric Ager (HD-114), joined Courage for America, NC Black Alliance, Advance NC, and Common Cause to highlight how MAGA lawmakers’ political games are pushing the country towards a default crisis at the expense of American seniors, veterans, and children.

For photos, videos, and more, visit our Press Kit and Facebook. Event photos and videos will continue to be updated as they are available.
For additional information or to speak with a spokesperson or event speaker, contact [email protected].

(All images free for use with credit to Courage for America)

WATCH EVENT HERE

FULL EVENT AUDIO HERE

EVENT PHOTOS HERE 

State Representative Eric Ager (HD-114) joins Courage for America to call on Rep. Edwards to “Back Off Our Benefits” (credit: Courage for America)

Here’s what speakers had to say about MAGA lawmakers’ extreme agenda:

Laura Packard, a Courage for America spokesperson and executive director of Health Care Voter:

• “We’re calling on extreme members of the Republican House majority, including Rep. Chuck Edwards here in Asheville, to sign a promise [that] they must protect the essential benefits Americans rely on and stop playing political games with the default crisis.”
• “House Republicans, including Rep. Edwards, are risking a major global economic crisis to make some kind of a political point. So we’re here to ask Rep. Edwards a final time to promise his constituents that he’ll back off our hard-earned benefits and stop playing politics with our lives.”

State Representative Eric Ager (HD-114):

• “We need to show that democracy works, that democracy takes care of the people. […] Our Congress is not listening to the people, it’s not focused on taking care of us as everyday people.”
• “It’s clear that […] the current leadership’s priorities are not aligned with those of most Americans. As we approach the 100th day of McCarthy’s tenure as Speaker, we really have to speak out [..] to make sure that they’re doing the work necessary to ensure American success. I call on our representative Chuck Edwards to push back against this effort in the House to take our country to the brink of default and risk an economic crisis, really just to score some petty political points.”

Moises Montalvo, a U.S. Army veteran and Common Defense member:

• “I’m here today to emphasize the importance of protecting Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security, and our veterans’ benefits. These are lifelines supporting millions of American families every day, including my own family.”
• “Start standing up and protecting these benefits for everyone because, I don’t know about you, but I think it’d be a better country if everybody had it a little bit easier and was actually able to thrive.”

Leslie Boyd, health care activist:

• “That’s our money you’re playing with, and we do not approve. You are hired to represent us and our interests, not the interests of big money. Do your job, Chuck.”

Sally Weldon, a NC-11 constituent:

• “Mr. Edwards, who is not here, I’m speaking to you. […] Start by not putting existing programs like Social Security, Medicare, SNAP, and Medicaid in jeopardy. […] We need you to make a simple promise to protect our hard-earned benefits, and to stop playing politics with our lives. Signing the agreement is offering your support for your constituents. It’s the right thing to do.”

Sue Hammer, a retiree who receives Social Security benefits:

• “Should we be concerned about our lawmakers taking away our benefits? Absolutely. […] But this isn’t something that should be a political issue—it’s not about Party. It’s a basic human right to be offered health care and to live without the constant worry whether we’ll be able to receive a guaranteed income we need to have the quality of life we all deserve.”

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Advocates Ramp Up Pressure on MAGA Republicans Ahead of Potential Default Crisis and McCarthy’s 100th Day

ASHEVILLE, NC — Today (4/7) at 10 AM EDT as part of its nationwide “Back Off Our Benefits” bus tour, Courage for America will host a press conference with local advocates at Pack Square Park to call on Representative Chuck Edwards to promise his constituents that he will not cut essential programs that Americans rely on — including Social Security, Medicare, and veterans’ benefits.

Constituents of Rep. Edwards, NC Black Alliance, Advance NC, and Common Cause will join Courage for America council members and allies to shine a light on how MAGA lawmakers’ political games are pushing the country towards a default crisis at the expense of American seniors, veterans, and children.

NOTE: Rep. Edward’s constituents invited him to attend the event and make this promise to his constituents, but they did not hear back from his office. 

RSVP For the Press Conference Here

PRESS CONFERENCE AT PACK SQUARE PARK

• WHO: 
  • Representative Eric Ager
  • Laura Packard, Courage for America spokesperson and executive director of Health Care Voter
  • Moises Montalvo, Army Veteran and Common Defense member
  • Leslie Boyd, healthcare activist
  • Sally Weldon, NC-11 constituent
  • Additional constituents and community leaders from NC-11
• WHEN: Today, April 7, at 10 AM EDT (check-in begins at 9:30 AM EDT)
• WHERE: Pack Square Park 80 Court Plaza Asheville, NC 28801

** B-ROLL AND PHOTO VISUAL: “Back Off Our Benefits” branded bus, signs being held by individuals; large “empty promise” placard; local community members speaking; campaign members wearing Courage for America t-shirts and sweatshirts**

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Advocates Ramp Up Pressure on MAGA Republicans Ahead of McCarthy’s 100th Day
Photos, Audio, and Tour Information Available in Our Press Kit
(All images free for use with credit to Courage for America)

ST. LOUIS, MO — Today, as part of its nationwide “Back Off Our Benefits” bus tour, Courage for America joined local advocates to call out Representative Jason Smith and his fellow MAGA lawmakers for pushing the country towards a default crisis at the expense of American seniors, veterans, and children.

At Kiener Plaza in St. Louis, advocates demanded that Rep. Smith promise not to cut funding for lifesaving programs that Americans rely on while the default deadline looms—including Social Security, Medicare, and veterans’ benefits.

This afternoon, the bus tour will visit Rep. Smith’s district offices in Farmington, MO and Cape Girardeau, MO to once again ask him to make this promise to his constituents and protect their hard-earned benefits.

For photos, videos, and more, visit our Press Kit and Facebook. Event photos and videos will continue to be updated as they are available.
For additional information or to speak with a spokesperson or event speaker, contact [email protected].

WATCH EVENT HERE

FULL EVENT AUDIO HERE

EVENT PHOTOS HERE 

(All images free for use with credit to Courage for America)

Here’s what speakers had to say about MAGA lawmakers’ extreme agenda:

Laura Packard, Courage for America spokesperson and executive director of Health Care Voter:

• “We’re calling on extreme members of the Republican House majority, including Rep. Smith, to sign a promise [that] they must protect the essential benefits Americans rely on and stop playing political games with the default crisis.”
• “House Republicans, including Rep. Smith, are risking a major global economic crisis and a major personal crises for millions of Americans across the country who depend on these benefits. We’re here to ask Rep. Smith a final time to promise his constituents that he’ll back off our hard-earned benefits.”

Moises Montalvo, an army veteran and Common Defense member:

• “Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security, and veterans benefits are not just programs—they’re the very embodiment of our nation’s commitment to caring for its people. They represent the values that I fought for and that we fight for as soldiers, airmen, Marines, and sailors: compassion, solidarity, and a genuine concern for the wellbeing of other citizens.”

Jessica Motsinger, a U.S. Navy veteran and Common Defense member:

• “Social Security Disability Insurance was and continues to be here not only for myself, but for over 26,000 constituents from MO-08—citizens that are part of Rep. Jason Smith’s district. […] In MO-08, their veteran population makes up over 13 percent of the entire state veteran population and yet, Rep. Smith is looking to cut their veterans’ benefits.”
• “We’re asking Rep. McCarthy and Rep. Smith to honor their oath.”

Marla Chassels, a local activist and organizer:

• “Why is anyone ever denied the basic human right of quality medical care? The scariest question of all: Why are certain members of Congress trying to take away the benefits that we do have? We have to protect and expand our benefits.”

Stephanie Taylor, founder of CDSS-ESL:

• “It is simply troubling that leaders will consider cuts to Medicare and food stamp benefits and underrepresented communities’ access to health care.”
• “I’m talking to you leaders because education and health care are two of the most important factors in determining one’s future economic success. […] Cuts to Medicare and food stamp benefits would make it more difficult for children in these communities to access the resources they need to succeed.”
• “It is quite tragic that our leaders continue to put politics over people, showing their disdain for the people who elected them. […] These cuts would disproportionately affect those who are already facing significant challenges and would only serve to widen the gap between those who have access to basic necessities and those who do not.”

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Advocates Ramp Up Pressure on MAGA Republicans Ahead of Potential Default Crisis and McCarthy’s 100th Day

ST. LOUIS, MO — Today (4/5) at 11:30 AM CDT, as part of its nationwide “Back Off Our Benefits” bus tour, Courage for America will host a press conference with local advocates at Kiener Plaza to call on Representative Jason Smith to promise his constituents that he will not cut essential programs that Americans rely on — including Social Security, Medicare, and veterans’ benefits.

The press event will feature constituents of Rep. Smith, Courage for America spokesperson Laura Packard, and other allies joining forces to call out MAGA lawmakers for pushing the country towards a default crisis at the expense of American seniors, veterans, and children.

RSVP For the Press Conference Here

PRESS CONFERENCE AT KIENER PLAZA

• WHO:
  • Laura Packard, Courage for America Spokesperson and Executive Director of Health Care Voter
  • Moises Montalvo, Army Veteran and Common Defense member
  • Jessica Motsinger, US Navy Veteran and Common Defense member
  • Marla Chassels, local activist and organizer
  • Stephanie Taylor, founder of Community Development Sustainable Solutions, East St. Louis
  • W.L. Fort, member of the St. Louis community
  • Keith Bell, former Legislative Director for Indivisible Illinois
  • And other members of the St. Louis community  
• WHEN: Today, April 5, at 11:30 AM CDT (check-in begins at 11 AM CDT)
• WHERE: Kiener Plaza 500 Chestnut St., St. Louis, MO 63101

** B-ROLL AND PHOTO VISUAL: “Back Off Our Benefits” branded bus, signs being held by individuals; large “empty promise” placard; local community members speaking; campaign members wearing Courage for America t-shirts and sweatshirts **

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Advocates Ramp Up Pressure on MAGA Republicans Ahead of McCarthy’s 100th Day
Photos, Audio, and Tour Information Available in Our Press Kit
(All images free for use with credit to Courage for America)

DURANGO, CO — Today, as part of its nationwide “Back Off Our Benefits” bus tour, Courage for America joined Rocky Mountain Values, the Colorado Alliance for Retired Americans, and constituents from CO-03 in Durango to call on Rep. Lauren Boebert to promise her constituents that she will not cut essential programs that Americans rely on — including Social Security, Medicare, and veterans’ benefits.

Rep. Boebert was invited by her constituents to the event but she did not attend.

For photos, videos, and more, visit our Press Kit and Facebook. Event photos and videos will continue to be updated as they are available.
For additional information or to speak with a spokesperson or event speaker, contact [email protected].

WATCH EVENT HERE

FULL EVENT AUDIO HERE

EVENT PHOTOS HERE 

(All images free for use with credit to Courage for America)

Here’s what speakers had to say about MAGA lawmakers’ extreme agenda:

Laura Packard, Courage for America spokesperson and executive director of Health Care Voter:

• “We’re calling on extreme members of the Republican House majority, including Rep. Boebert, to sign a promise [that] they must protect the essential benefits Americans rely on and stop playing political games with the default crisis.”
• “House Republicans, including Rep. Boebert, are risking a major global economic crisis and a major personal crises for millions of Americans across the country who depend on these benefits. So we’re here to ask Rep. Boebert a final time to promise her constituents that she’ll back off our hard-earned benefits.”

Jean Walter, an advocate speaking on behalf of the Colorado Alliance for Retired Americans:

• “We challenge Speaker McCarthy, our Rep. Boebert, and the extremists in Congress to get serious and do their jobs. Stop with the political games. Don’t risk our economy by failing to raise the debt limit and help the American people by strengthening Social Security and Medicare.”

Carolyn Hunter, a constituent of CO-03:

• “It’s unthinkable to consider what communities would face if Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare got drastic cuts. […] We must speak up loudly to protect our societies’ stability and protect these key programs that have been quietly making all the difference in our family stories—and we must vote for the candidates who commit to protecting these programs.”

 Kelsey Bell, executive director of Southwest Center for Independence:

• “We work every day with people in our community who rely on veterans benefits, SSI, SSDI retirement, SNAP, and Medicare. These benefits are vital for people to be able to live in our community, to live the life they deserve and they want. […] We need to increase benefits, not cut benefits.”

To learn more about the bus tour or speak with a Courage for America spokesperson, please email [email protected]. Additional information can be found in our press kit, including photos and videos from each event that will be added throughout the tour.

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Advocates Ramp Up Pressure on MAGA Republicans Ahead of Potential Default Crisis and McCarthy’s 100th Day

DURANGO, CO — Today (4/3) at 10 AM MDT, as part of its nationwide “Back Off Our Benefits” bus tour, Courage for America, Rocky Mountain Values, and the Colorado Alliance for Retired Americans will host a press conference with local advocates at Buckley Park to call on Representative Lauren Boebert to promise to stop playing politics with the debt ceiling by threatening Social Security, Medicare, and veterans’ benefits.

Constituents of Rep. Boebert, Courage for America spokesperson Laura Packard, Rocky Mountain Values, Colorado Alliance for Retired Americans, and other allies are joining the event to call out MAGA lawmakers for pushing the country towards a default crisis at the expense of American seniors, veterans, and children.

NOTE: Rep. Boebert was invited to the event by her constituents, but she will not attend. 

RSVP For the Press Conference Here

PRESS CONFERENCE AT BUCKLEY PARK

• WHO: 
  • Laura Packard, Courage for America spokesperson and executive director of Health Care Voter
  • Kelsey Bell, Executive Director of Southwest Center for Independence
  • Jean Walter, Advocate speaking on behalf of the Colorado Alliance for Retired Americans
  • Carolyn Hunter, Constituent of CO-03
  • Dozens of constituents and community leaders from CO-03
• WHEN: Today, April 3, at 10 AM MDT (check-in begins at 9:30 AM MDT)
• WHERE: Buckley Park Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301

** B-ROLL AND PHOTO VISUAL: “Back Off Our Benefits” branded bus, signs being held by individuals; large “empty promise” placard; local community members speaking; campaign members wearing Courage for America t-shirts and sweatshirts**

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Advocates Ramp Up Pressure on MAGA Republicans Ahead of McCarthy’s 100th Day
Photos, Audio, and Tour Information Available in Our Press Kit
(All images free for use with credit to Courage for America) 

FLAGSTAFF, AZ — Today, as part of its nationwide “Back Off Our Benefits” bus tour, Courage for America joined the Arizona Alliance for Retired Americans and other Arizona partners in Flagstaff to call on Representative Crane to promise his constituents that he will not cut essential programs that Americans rely on — including Social Security, Medicare, and veterans’ benefits.

Common Defense national organizer JoJo Sweatt calls on Rep. Crane to protect veterans’ benefits. [Credit: Courage for America] 

WATCH EVENT HERE

The Arizona Alliance for Retired Americans and constituents of Rep. Crane blasted MAGA lawmakers for playing political games and pushing the country towards a default crisis at the expense of American seniors, veterans, and children. Rep. Crane was invited to speak directly with his constituents but refused to respond and did not attend.

EVENT PHOTOS HERE

(All images free for use with credit to Courage for America)

Constituents of Rep. Crane join Courage for America to ask him to promise to protect their benefits. [Credit: Courage for America]

Here’s what speakers had to say about MAGA lawmakers’ extreme agenda:

Laura Packard, Courage for America spokesperson and executive director of Health Care Voter:

• “They’re going after all of our benefits. Medicare, Social Security, Medicaid, veterans’ benefits, food stamps, and even the Affordable Care Act are under attack. […] House Republicans, including Rep. Crane, are risking a major global economic crisis and major personal crisis for millions of Americans across the country to score political points. We’re here today to ask Rep. Crane a final time to promise his constituents back off our hard-earned benefits and stop playing politics with our livelihoods.”

JoJo Sweatt, national organizing director for Common Defense:

• “These MAGA extremists would rather default on debt obligation or, even worse, making the American people responsible for that debt by threatening extreme cuts to our hard-earned benefits that protect us.”
• “They swore an oath to serve. I know what that looks like. House Republicans are waging war on everyday Americans like you and I, and they are willfully risking a major economic crisis for which we may never recover.”
• “Rep. Crane is not a representative of the people in his district if he stands on the side of the MAGA circus in DC. He’s turning his back on nearly 183,000 residents of this district who are eligible for Medicare. He’s turning his back on 14,000 people who are eligible for disability and SSI. He’s turning his back on 15.3% of Arizona’s veterans who live in the district and barely get rural services. He’s turning his back on 11% of households who need SNAP benefits to ensure their families don’t go hungry.”

Susan Shapiro, director of Indivisible Northern AZ:

• “Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid are programs that millions of Americans rely on—real people, including my family, each with a unique story. So why would Republicans cut Medicaid while forcing women and … including poor women to give birth? Why would Republicans prioritize cutting these programs to the point of threatening to default on the debt and throwing the global economy into crisis?”
• “All we’re asking from Eli Crane is that he stop playing politics with our lives, to promise to protect our benefits, and to not provoke a global catastrophe. It shouldn’t be too much to ask.”

Nicole Whitten, Northern Arizona University student organizer: 

• “Health care is a human right. Medicare and Medicaid allow millions of Americans to access the life-saving care that they previously would not have had access to. […] We represent the greater majority of Americans who wish to fight for the health care we are owed, not what the government thinks we deserve.”

Emma Schraner, organizing manager of Rural Arizona Action:

• “The idea that Medicare, Medicaid Social Security, SNAP benefits, and other programs could be jeopardized — on top of the current crisis of food and housing insecurity — is almost impossible for me to imagine. But here we are, telling our deeply personal stories with the hope that we can persuade Representatives like Eli Crane to not to take these programs away.”
• “I will be watching to see how Rep. Crane represents us — what is being asked of him is the bare minimum. Taking away these programs is a death sentence to countless people, including many I know.”

Lesley Handon, Northern Arizona University student, Arizona Students’ Association fellow, and proud queer activist:

• “Programs that help lower the cost of food, health care, and many other basic human needs are being threatened by House Republicans across the country, including here [in Flagstaff]. We must do all we can to push back against these cuts – call Representatives, go to events just like this one, and make your voices heard. We cannot succumb to the extremist rhetoric or policies that deem human life not as important as a financial and political gain.”

To learn more about the bus tour or speak with a Courage for America spokesperson, please email [email protected]. Additional information can be found in our press kit, including photos and videos from each event that will be added throughout the tour.

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Advocates Ramp Up Pressure on MAGA Republicans Ahead of Potential Default Crisis and McCarthy’s 100th Day

Flagstaff, AZ — Today (4/1) at 2:30 PM MST, as part of its nationwide “Back Off Our Benefits” bus tour, Courage for America will host a press conference with local advocates in Flagstaff to call on Representative Crane to promise his constituents that he will not cut essential programs that Americans rely on — including Social Security, Medicare, and veterans’ benefits.

Constituents of Rep. Crane, Courage for America spokesperson Laura Packard, the Arizona Alliance for Retired Americans, Progress Arizona and other allies are joining the event to call out MAGA lawmakers for pushing the country towards a default crisis at the expense of American seniors, veterans, and children.

RSVP For the Press Conference Here

“Back Off Our Benefits” Bus Tour Press Conference

• WHO: 
  • Laura Packard, Courage for America spokesperson and executive director of Health Care Voter
  • Jojo Sweatt, national organizing director for Common Defense
  • Susan Shapiro, Director of Indivisible Northern AZ
  • Nicole Whitten, law student and local advocate
• WHEN: Today, April 1st at 2:30 PM MST (check-in begins at 2 PM MST)
• WHERE: Wheeler Park, 212 W Aspen Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

** B-ROLL AND PHOTO VISUAL: “Back Off Our Benefits” branded bus, signs being held by individuals; large “empty promise” placard; local community members speaking; campaign members wearing Courage for America t-shirts and sweatshirts **

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Advocates Ramp Up Pressure on MAGA Republicans Ahead of McCarthy’s 100th Day
Photos, Audio, Tour Information Available in Our Press Kit
(All images free for use with credit to Courage for America)

PHOENIX, AZ — Today, as part of its nationwide “Back Off Our Benefits” bus tour, Courage for America joined Honest Arizona and other Arizona partners in Phoenix to call on Representative Schweikert to promise his constituents that he will not cut essential programs that Americans rely on — including Social Security, Medicare, and veterans’ benefits.

Rep. Schweikert constituents and local advocates attend “Back Off Our Benefits” Bus Tour stop in Phoenix, AZ (Credit: Courage for America) 

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Honest Arizona and constituents of Rep. Schweikert blasted MAGA lawmakers for playing political games and pushing the country towards a default crisis at the expense of American seniors, veterans, and children. Rep. Schweikert was invited to speak directly with his constituents but refused to respond and did not attend.

EVENT PHOTOS HERE 

(All images free for use with credit to Courage for America)

Arizona-based veteran David Lucier calls on Rep. Schweikert to back off seniors’, veterans’ essential benefits. (Credit: Courage for America)

Here’s what speakers had to say about MAGA lawmakers’ extreme agenda:

Laura Packard, Courage for America spokesperson and executive director of Health Care Voter:

• “Even though he isn’t here, we are and we need to be heard. Even before Kevin McCarthy became Speaker, MAGA Republicans have been playing politics instead of protecting people.”
• “How many of us have somebody, or maybe even ourselves, who rely on these essential government benefits? What happens when those checks are cut or don’t come at all? We need House Republicans to stop risking a major global economic crisis for millions of Americans across the country to score political points.”
• “We’re here today to ask Representative Schweikert a final time to promise his constituents to back off our hard-earned benefits and stop playing politics with our livelihoods.” 

Dora Vasquez, executive director of the Arizona Alliance for Retired Americans:

• “We have a simple message for House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Representative Schweikert: We strongly oppose any cuts to Social Security and Medicare.”
• “Nearly 20 percent of all Arizonans receive Social Security or Medicare. They are retirees, surviving spouses, children, and disabled Americans who have earned these benefits over a lifetime of hard work. But once again, some [MAGA] politicians are proposing drastic cuts and changes to Social Security and Medicare.”
• “We are getting grandstanding and threats that will weaken our economy. We challenge Speaker McCarthy and Rep. Schweikert to get serious and do their jobs. Stop with the politicking, don’t risk our economy by failing to raise the debt limit.”

Rev. Cathy Patterson, Courage for America council member, faith leader, and former Wall Street executive:

• “As one of your constituents, I must demand more of you. […] Not raising the debt ceiling is like playing Russian roulette with the economy—and that is not hyperbole.”
• “So Rep. Schweikert: Where do you stand in this time of challenge and controversy? Are you going to duck and dodge and over meaningless legislation because you lack the courage to do the right thing if it means challenging a small group of extremists in your party who are hellbent on driving this economy off the cliff? […] Why won’t [you] pledge not to cut Social Security or Medicare?”
• “Congressman Schweikert, it’s time for you to stand up for your district, stop the insanity, and let us know where you stand on the budget.”

Linda Somo, a retired teacher and union leader:

• “We are here today to try and encourage Rep. Schweikert to be on our side—the side of his constituents, the side of the retirees, the veterans, the moms who need SNAP programs.”
• “We sent an invitation to [Rep. Schweikert]. We sent him a promise to sign. What we got in return was silence—he didn’t even bother to respond to us. That’s how much he cares about his constituents.”

Richard Jones, a Marine Corps veteran:

• “Schweikert must not be allowed to hold our country hostage, whether it’s through encouraging an authoritarian and anti-democratic violence or by taking away the social [safety] nets that so many people depend on.”

To learn more about the bus tour or speak with a Courage for America spokesperson, please email [email protected]. Additional information can be found in our press kit, including photos and videos from each event that will be added throughout the tour.

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