I am astounded that the United States Congress passed the Reconciliation Bill, also known as the Big Beautiful Bill.

The West Virginia Congressional Delegation, including Senator Capito, Senator Justice, Representative Miller, and Representative Moore, should understand how disappointing their support of this legislation is.

I work with vulnerable, low-income youth. Many of their families rely on SNAP and Medicaid. These federal programs are a lifeline for them. I have observed the low self-esteem that poverty can cause.

Congress’s decision to cut SNAP and Medicaid is frustrating. When individuals and families can no longer meet their basic needs, it’s a step backward for our entire community. These cuts will raise poverty, food insecurity, and hardship. In WV, this means more empty refrigerators, untreated illnesses, and increased fear about the future.

About 277,400 people in West Virginia receive SNAP benefits, accounting for roughly 15.7% of the state’s population. One in three West Virginians depends on Medicaid for healthcare, according to the West Virginia Center on Budget & Policy. This includes children, seniors, people with disabilities, and working families. The bill will significantly reduce or eliminate food assistance, marking the largest cut to Medicaid in history.

Our West Virginia congressional delegation unanimously voted yes to placate the wealthy at the expense of those with the greatest needs. Our community deserves better. We need leaders who understand the real needs of their state.

This is a betrayal of trust that will not be easily forgotten.

David J. Messer Elkins