“Let’s be clear — this shutdown isn’t some political standoff happening far away,” Ford said. “It’s an attack on working families, seniors, and children right here in Illinois’ 7th District.”
In a time when Washington politics have left too many families behind, State Representative La Shawn K. Ford is standing up for the people of Illinois’ 7th Congressional District — calling for real leadership, compassion, and action.
At a recent press conference joined by Congressman Danny K. Davis, Representative Ford issued a direct call to House Speaker Mike Johnson and congressional Republicans to return to Washington and end the ongoing federal government shutdown — a crisis now threatening the wellbeing of thousands of families across Chicago and the surrounding communities.
According to Ford, the impact of congressional inaction is already being felt. Beginning November 1, more than 1.9 million people across Illinois risk losing access to food assistance, including over 64,000 households in the 7th District who depend on SNAP benefits each month.
And the threat doesn’t end there. With health care tax credits set to expire, Ford warned that many families could soon face health premium increases of 200% or more — turning what should be a temporary impasse in Washington into a financial emergency for working people.
“These aren’t luxury expenses — this is survival,” Ford said. “We’re talking about medicine, food, and rent. Thirty-five thousand residents in our district risk losing coverage altogether because of cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act.”
Ford, joined by Congressman Davis, urged Speaker Johnson to immediately restore full federal funding for health, housing, and nutrition programs — and to work with Democrats to protect critical benefits during any future budget impasse. Ford also called for permanent safeguards to ensure that vulnerable communities are never again used as leverage in partisan fights.
This moment reflects what has defined Ford’s public life: a commitment to fairness, compassion, and service. Raised in Chicago’s Austin community, Ford’s story is one of perseverance — from humble beginnings to a lifetime dedicated to teaching, advocacy, and public service. His campaign for Congress continues that same mission: to fight for health care access, affordable housing, job opportunities, and the dignity every family deserves.
Endorsed by Congressman Danny K. Davis and former Secretary of State Jesse White, Ford represents a new generation of leadership — rooted in integrity, experience, and a deep understanding of the communities he serves.
As Ford said during his remarks:
“Brighter days are ahead for us all — but only if we work together.”
