Conclusion

In the end, government shutdown affects us all. Not only should we worry about shutdowns affecting us, but we should worry more about how easily they are to prevent (yet we rarely try). Government shutdowns occur in Washington D.C., hundreds of miles away from our own homes. It might be very far away, but it is still a problem here at home. As I have exemplified, government shutdowns cause detrimental effects on the government and our livelihood. This research essay not only gives examples, facts, and information regarding effects a government shutdown has, but it also gives us a call to action. Our duty, as citizens, is to hold the government accountable. Too often do we get lost in our daily lives as we let our elected Senators and Representatives make our decisions for us without sizeable recommendations. Yes, some citizens might contact their elected officials through email, letters, phone calls, or even visits, but not enough do to consistently change their votes on a regular basis. In our country, this must change. Our nation is becoming more politically charged and more political active, signaling (hopefully) positive changes within our government. The more we offer input as constituents, the more we become a part of the political process. Instead of standing idly by while the government argues to the point of a shutdown, we have the chance to say what is on our minds and tell our politicians what we want. Not only does this political involvement relate to a government shutdown, but it also can relate to other issues important to individuals. A constituent can contact an elected legislator regarding DACA, the opioid epidemic, criminal justice reform, spending, taxes, or term limits, informing them on what they want them to vote for. If enough people contact their representative about a certain issue, that politician will have no choice but to vote in their favor. At the end of the day, politicians seek reelection, and that cannot be achieved by voting against your constituents’ views. By becoming more educated on how the actions of the federal government affect you, you will be more equipped to realize the need for contacting them. Government shutdowns have major effects on the economy of this great nation, as well as the citizens of this great nation. We must learn to continue to not only educate ourselves, but to make sure we hold our government accountable for their actions. Whether it be through the effects of lost labor, lost money, or lost GDP, government shutdowns are something need to be prevented; Not only by our Senators and Representatives, but also by us.