Rep. Terri A. Sewell, a member of the U.S. Congress representing Alabama’s 7th district since 2011, posted a series of messages on September 30, 2025, addressing the impending government shutdown and criticizing House Republicans’ actions regarding health care and legislative negotiations.
In her first post at 15:43 UTC, Sewell wrote, “The government shuts down tonight. House Republicans are on vacation. Democrats are here in Washington ready to work. Let’s come together to keep government open and protect Americans’ health care!!!”
Later that afternoon at 16:12 UTC, she stated, “Republicans have created a full-blown health care crisis. Costs are skyrocketing. Hospitals are closing. Now, they’re shutting down the government instead of working with Democrats to reverse these disastrous cuts. Shameful!”
By the evening at 18:38 UTC, Sewell added, “We are hours away from a government shutdown and Republicans just CLOSED DOWN the House instead of working with us to keep government open!”
Sewell’s comments reflect ongoing tensions in Congress over federal funding and health care policy as the deadline for avoiding a government shutdown approached. She has represented Alabama’s 7th District since replacing Artur Davis in 2011 and is known for her focus on issues affecting her constituents in Birmingham and beyond. Born in Huntsville in 1965 and currently residing in Birmingham, Sewell holds degrees from Princeton University, St Hilda’s College at Oxford, and Harvard Law School.
The posts highlight Democratic frustration with Republican colleagues during critical budget negotiations that impact both government operations and national health care systems.
