The Trump administration's federal funding freeze is another example of how Donald Trump doesn't really care about everyday hard-working Americans. Policies like this funding freeze create chaos, confusion and uncertainty. This action is an overreach of the President's authority. States have been locked out of the Medicaid payment portal jeopardizing healthcare for more than 163,000 South Dakotans. Local organizations that serve the homeless and small businesses have been told their funding is frozen. Donald Trump is putting our most vulnerable at risk. He is creating uncertainty for SD entrepreneurs, which hurts our economy. While a judge has given a temporary reprieve, uncertainty with these organizations, their staff and the people they serve remains.

"As a former legislator and business owner, I understand the importance of these programs to South Dakotans. Medicaid provides healthcare for more than 80,000 children in this state. It provides financial support to many of our elderly in nursing homes. As the state's homeless population has grown, support to non-profits that provide shelter and food is essential. As a small business owner, I understand how important these loan programs are for startup businesses. Our state provides very little support for small businesses, so these federal programs are essential. The impact of these programs goes beyond just small business and will affect all facets of our economy including agriculture. Putting a hold on these funds hurts South Dakota's economy." - Dan Ahlers SDDP Executive Director

The first week of this of the Trump administration proves why elections matter. As we watch the systematic restructunng of our government to his authoritarian playbook, the SD Democratic Party will always stand for government that works for all South Dakotans.