As a resident of Eastern Oregon, I’m deeply concerned about how federal worker instability is affecting our local economy.

Federal workers are our neighbors and community members. They shop in our stores, eat in our restaurants, and support local businesses. When their paychecks are delayed or jobs threatened, it’s not just personal — it’s an economic issue that affects us all.

Agencies like the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service keep our communities protected from disasters like wildfires: without them, state and local taxpayers would bear the cost.

Many federal employees are veterans or work in agencies that support veterans. Undermining federal support means undermining the care and services veterans have earned.

I urge Rep. Cliff Bentz and other local officials to recognize the essential role federal workers play in keeping our communities strong and our economy stable. Supporting federal workers means supporting the backbone of our county.

Without these jobs, our communities will face economic decline, and the foundations that keep them strong will begin to crumble.

Lisa Jenkins

Baker City