Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Just two days before the start of open enrollment for the Affordable Care Act and Republicans’ cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) take effect, Rep. Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) convened social media influencers and digital creators for a virtual briefing to discuss where things stand, how to end the shutdown, and what’s at stake for working families across the country. 

Participants included creators and organizers representing millions of followers on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. The conversation centered on the ongoing impacts of the shutdown, including the looming suspension of federal food assistance and skyrocketing health care premiums after the expiration of enhanced ACA subsidies. 

“As the government shutdown enters its 30th day, digital creators are helping cut through the noise and tell the truth about what’s really happening in Washington, which is why I convened a select group of influencers and organizers for a briefing,” said Rep. Gomez. “In just two days, on November 1st, open enrollment begins, and millions of working class families will see their health care premiums skyrocket because Republicans let key tax credits expire, and SNAP benefits will run out for 42 million Americans — parents, kids, seniors, and workers who won’t be able to afford groceries. I will keep meeting with anyone willing to listen and exposing the false choice being presented to the American people by Trump and congressional Republicans who have a track record of disdain for programs like SNAP, WIC, Medicare and Medi-Cal.” 

“We have to organize and tell powerful stories that cut through the noise. That is how we win and how we hold leaders accountable when they play political games instead of solving problems. People should not lose their SNAP benefits or be furloughed because of political brinkmanship. I do not care who they voted for,” said Michael Ceraso, an organizer and advocate, who moderated and invited creators to todays event. “My own sister is on the brink of losing hers, and my work is for her and for everyone who does not have someone fighting for them. Government should show up like family. It should be an advocate, not an obstacle. Rep. Gomez understands that. He takes action, writes policy that serves people, and shows up in their homes and on their phones, listening and telling their stories. That is the leadership we need, and that is the work we will continue to do by organizing, uplifting real lives, and standing with people, not above them.”

The session also covered how creators are using their platforms to cut through misinformation and hold Republican policymakers accountable for the prolonged crisis. Creators and influencers like Sidney Raskind, Maggie Reed, Dr. Ilan Shapiro, Dyna Edyne, — representing millions of followers across platforms— joined in for the briefing.