My father, several siblings and I are former federal government workers. I feel strongly that Congress should now approve appropriations for unfunded federal departments, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This would end the shutdown if the president signed the bills or his veto was overridden, and 800,000 federal workers could return to work and get paid.

DHS could then make a request to Congress for funding to enhance border security. Then, by a straight up-and-down vote in both houses, Congress could approve or reject the request.

This is the way our government is supposed to function. It should not be held captive by the whims, fabrications and fantasies of our misguided, self-promoting and callous president. The shutdown needs to end now. Too many people are getting harmed.

John Witeck

Kamehameha Heights

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