A Letter To My Senator

Trysten Burnham
P.O. Box 342
Skagway, Alaska 99840
October 9, 2013

The Honorable Senator Murkowski
 709 Hart Senate Building
Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Senator Murkowski:

My name is Trysten Burnham and I reside in Skagway, Alaska. I am in the eleventh grade attending Skagway High School. I am writing to you to voice my concern about the issues currently facing our nation.

The Affordable Care Act (H.R. 3590) and the government shutdown are two issues that I would like to discuss. I can explain my position on The Affordable Care Act in three points: insurance prices will be more competitive, it offers coverage to people with pre-existing health problems, and it benefits young adults under the age of 26. Then, I will offer my opinion of the government shutdown.

The Affordable Care Act will force insurance companies to offer more affordable prices due to a more competitive market. This new "Health Insurance Marketplace" makes it easier for individuals, families, and small businesses to get insurance. This is a good thing for young families who want to ensure the health of their children, giving these young parents much needed piece of mind.

Next, insurance companies will not be able to deny applicants with pre-existing health conditions. Also, insurance companies will be unable to drop their insurance clients just because their ailment gets too serious. This benefits Americans who become ill and need support to pay their medical bills.

I will be 18 years old in less than two years. The idea that I can be covered by my father's insurance until the age of 26 is reassuring as I go to college and begin my career. Students and young Americans around the country won't have to worry about finding their own insurance until they are well on their way to financial stability.

I find it irresponsible that both political parties are unable to find middle ground and pass a spending bill.The government shutdown is a direct result of the republicans and democrats not having concern for the good of the people. Thousands of citizens, who depend on their government paychecks, are sitting at home instead of working due to this shutdown. The negative aspects of The Affordable Car Act are not worth shutting down the government. Using the importance of the spending bill as leverage to destroy the Affordable Care Act is petty.

These matters are all very important, and I understand that there is no easy answer. Thank you for your time, I would appreciate you taking the time to consider what I have expressed in this letter. Please send me a response with your standpoint on these issues, I would love to hear the opinions of my state senator.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,
Trysten Burnham