June XX, 2019

The Honorable XXXXX
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XXXXX, XX XXXX

Dear XXXXXX,

We the undersigned clergy of Wisconsin, representing faith traditions and congregations across the state, stand together in support of Medicaid expansion in Wisconsin. Our faith traditions teach us to uphold the rights of the needy and protect the most vulnerable in our society with the compassion that God teaches us. The ethical imperatives of our faith traditions particularly call upon us to raise our voices for those with limited financial means or those with limited access to healthcare.

Every day in our congregations, neighborhoods, and communities we see first-hand the struggles folks face to make ends meet. As clergy, we are called to welcome and show God’s love to our brothers and sisters in need through spiritual guidance and what resources we can offer. We know that Medicaid is a program that often keeps people alive and healthy enough to work their way out of poverty. We pray for a more life-affirming future where individuals and families can easily access and afford the healthcare they need.

The 2019-2021 State Budget is a critical opportunity to move in the direction of that vision of the future. Expanding Medicaid by accepting federal Medicaid dollars is the compassionate, reasonable thing to do. When your constituents, the people of this state, are struggling to simply cover healthcare costs, we must act. We believe a failure to do so vilifies the poor and is wrong. As clergy representing millions of Wisconsinites of faith, including those who receive healthcare through Medicaid, we call upon you, our elected officials, to join us in supporting this necessary program.

Please stand up for the wellbeing of the people of Wisconsin. We hold you in our prayers as you serve the people of Wisconsin.

Sincerely,

Reverend David Kraemer, United Unitarian Universalist Congregation
Waukesha, WI

Reverend Dr. Andrew Calhoun, Grace Fellowship Church
Milwaukee, WI

Pastor Karen Hagen, Tippecanoe Presbyterian Church
Milwaukee, WI

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