Grand Rapids Reporter

Congresswoman Hillary Scholten, who represents Michigan’s 3rd district in the U.S. Congress, used her social media platform this week to address concerns over the ongoing government shutdown and its effects on federal workers and constituents.

On October 17, Scholten posted about the situation facing air traffic controllers during the shutdown: "Air traffic controllers, the crucial federal workers who keep our airspaces safe and planes flying smoothly, deserve to be paid for their work. Period. That’s why I’m in Washington with my @TransportDems colleagues calling on our Republican counterparts to open the government" (October 17, 2025).

Later that day, she referenced a telephone town hall where health care costs were a major topic of discussion among West Michigan residents: "At this week’s telephone town hall, I was able to speak with West Michiganders who are deeply concerned about their health care costs. I reminded folks like Kathleen — whose health insurance bill is about to TRIPLE — that she and her husband are the reason that I am keeping up" (October 17, 2025).

The following day, Scholten continued engaging with constituents by seeking input on how the shutdown is affecting them personally: "As this shutdown carries on and Republicans refuse to work to end it, I want to hear from you. How is this shutdown impacting your day-to-day? Are you concerned about your health care costs, SNAP benefits, or paying your next bill? Let Team Scholten know." (October 18, 2025).

Hillary Scholten has represented Michigan's 3rd District since replacing Peter Meijer in Congress in 2023. She was born in Grand Rapids in 1982 and continues to reside there. Scholten holds a BA from Gordon College (2004) and a JD from the University of Maryland, Baltimore (2011). Her recent communications highlight her focus on constituent concerns during periods of federal disruption.