longer.blue

Copy it or write your own, but get the message to your senators. I have sent it to both in Illinois. If you do nothing, YOU are part of the problem. If that makes you mad, get off the couch and do something. February 8, 2026 Dear Senator Durbin, On Thursday, Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune revealed exactly what he thinks of us. He dismissed Democrats' demands to rein in ICE, claiming they only included them "to satisfy MoveOn or some of their left-wing special interest groups." Right now, Congress is deciding whether to hand Trump billions more dollars for his deportation machine—or finally rein in ICE. Funding for the Department of Homeland Security runs out on February 13. That gives us one week. Democrats have real leverage to force a partial shutdown, and they've laid out their demands, including an end to warrant-less arrests, protections for schools, churches, and hospitals, mandating ICE officers unmask, and independent investigations into ICE abuses. But they'll hold the line only if they know we have their backs. Right-wing media is in full attack mode. And some Democrats are getting very nervous about standing firm. This is the moment when movements either break through or break apart. When the pressure gets intense, politicians look to see how closely people are still watching and how hard people will continue to fight. WE ARE NOT GOING ANYWHERE!!! We, wholeheartedly, support your efforts and ask that you continue with the demands. Talk to any Democrat who is wavering and convince them to hold their ground against ICE. We applaud you steadfastness in our struggle against this administration. Unfortunately, not all of your colleagues are like that. They will not be reelected if they vote in favor of increasing the ICE budget. If anything, that budget should be reduced. The DNC has been too soft in their responses to many critical matters. It is time for them to stand for We, the People, and not their self preservation. We have long memories. Certainly up to the midterms. Respectfully, David and Joan Piekarczyk