Rep. Marlin Stutzman’s public opposition to a settlement to avoid sequestration March 1 is in major part based on a lack of federal spending cuts already accomplished. His rationale is transparent in that he strongly supports the rich and large corporate businesses. That is, he opposes closing tax loopholes for the wealthy and he opposes millionaires paying higher taxes.

We clearly understand the financial advantage to him in representing the wealthy in this way; however, we ask that he seriously consider the needs of us, as seniors, on Medicare and Social Security since we have paid taxes for years to obtain these benefits. We ask that he likewise consider the needs of those with disabilities and the needy, who have minimal advocacy representation.

Below we have a partial list of what cuts through sequestration will do to damage services/programs in Indiana. Source: Coalition on Human Needs

11,200 children and mothers losing WIC nutrition aid

1,867 low-income families losing rental housing vouchers

$6 million feeding cut from Head Start

$13.8 million in cuts deep enough to end services to low-income K-12 children

1,860 fewer people with disabilities served by vocational rehabilitation

$3.3 million in environmental protection funds

$820,000 in nutrition assistance for seniors

$12.4 million through elimination of 150 teachers and staff who help children with disabilities

This family urges you to compromise your budget stance and work with Congress members who have a genuine heart for needy constituents.

MARVIN O. ROSS and family

Fort Wayne